Rules & Info

Competition Overview

Refined. Energetic. Unforgettable.

Surge offers a professional yet welcoming environment that honors traditional dance etiquette while embracing the evolving nature of the industry. From precise scheduling to top-tier production, every detail is thoughtfully curated.

We accept entries on a first-come, first-served basis—and our events fill quickly. To secure your spot, ensure the following is completed at least 30 days prior to the event:

  • Routines are entered correctly
  • Full payment is submitted
  • Music is uploaded in MP3 format

Please note: All entry fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Routine Types & Entry Fees

We welcome all levels of dancers and routine sizes:

  • Solo – $150 (Limit 2 per dancer)

  • Duet/Trio – $75 per dancer

  • Group (4–15 dancers) – $35 per dancer

  • Line (16–24 dancers) – $25 per dancer

  • Extended Line / Production (25+ dancers) – $20 per dancer

Time Limits:

  • Solos, Duet/Trios – 3 minutes

  • Groups – 4 minutes

  • Extended Line – 6 minutes

  • Production – 8 minutes
    Additional time available at $5 per dancer.

Age Divisions

Age is determined as of January 1st. For group routines, the average age determines placement (rounded up).

  • Tiny: 3 & under

  • Mini: 4–6

  • Junior: 7–9

  • PreTeen: 10–12

  • Teen: 13–15

  • Senior: 16–18

  • Adult: 19+

Routine Categories

Surge welcomes a variety of styles. A few of our primary categories include:

  • Ballet – No acro tricks permitted

  • Contemporary – Fusion of modern, ballet, and jazz elements

  • Jazz & Lyrical – Strong technique with expressive choreography

  • Hip Hop – Authentic, stylized street movement

  • Musical Theater – Broadway-inspired storytelling

  • Tap, Pointe, Open, Acro, and more

Note: Inappropriate music, movements, or costumes may result in a lower score at the judges’ discretion.

    Prop Guidelines

    Props are welcome with thoughtful use and adherence to time limits. Safety remains our top priority. Fire, swords, knives, liquid, smoke, glitter, and helium balloons are not permitted.

      Music Guidelines

      All music submitted for routines must be properly licensed for public performance. It is the sole responsibility of the registrant to obtain and maintain the appropriate rights and licensing for any and all music used during the competition. No exceptions will be made.

        Judging & Awards

        100 Point Scale

        Every routine is evaluated on a 100-point scale:

        • Execution (40 points)

        • Technique (30 points)

        • Choreography (15 points)

        • Performance (15 points)

        Award Levels

        • Titanium (294–300)

        • Platinum (287–293)

        • Gold (279–286)

        • Silver (258–278)

        • Bronze (0–257)

        Overall Scoring Tiers

        Based on performance scores within each division:

        • SURGE Level – Top 25%

        • ELECTRIC, VOLTAGE, SPARK, and IGNITE – Recognizing excellence across the board

        Special Honors

        • Grand Champion Jackets – Awarded to 1st place in each scoring level

        • Judges’ Choice – Hand-selected and meaningful

        • Top Score Scholarship – $500 scholarship + $500 Surge Gift Certificate