Competitions 2009-2010

Dates and registration forms are now posted. Check out the Closed Competitions and Open Competition and Workshop pages for updated information.

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Highland dancing can be seen at nearly every modern day Highland games event. It is a highly competitive and technical form of dance that requires many hours of practice and training over several years. Highland dancing is similar to ballet with respect to the technical requirements and training required for its performance.

The FVHDA organizes 3 closed competitions and one open competition a year under the sanctioning of the Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing (SOBHD) of Scotland. Our competitions take place in the Fraser Valley, typically in Langley or Surrey. Closed competitions are open to members of the association only and the open competition accepts all dancers registered with the Scottish Official Board.

There are 5 classes of competitors in highland dance competitions:

Primary	dancers who are under 7 years old
Beginner	dancers stay at this level until they have a 1st, 2nd or 3rd place at 6 different competitions, but for at least 6 months
Novice	dancers stay at this level until they have a 1st, 2nd or 3rd place at 6 different competitions, but for at least 6 months
Intermediate	dancers stay at this level for one year from the date of the first intermediate competition
Premier	dancers at the highest level

There are age classifications in each group, so each dancer competes not only against dancers of a similar standard but also against dancers in their age group.

Each level of dance has specific dances that are allowed.

Competiton Levels

Dancers are judged on three basic areas:

Timing	The ability of the dancer to follow the rhythm of the music in the dance. Dancers must place feet, arms and head in very precise positions simultaneously with the music.
Technique	The dancer's footwork and the coordination of head, arms and hands. Good positioning of the feet is most important.
General deportment	This concerns the dancer's interpretation and ability to capture The spirit and motif of the dance and includes balance, overall appearance, bearing and carriage of the head, arms, body and hands. Upright posture is essential, and the dancers must exhibit a happy demeanor. Although the dances are very athletic, they must be danced with seeming ease, with no signs of strain and free of elaborate showiness.

For more information on Scoring

Participation of ALL members is essential.
FVHDA is a volunteer organization that requires the help of each and every member. Every member has a responsibility to fulfill the volunteer commitments regardless of the age or level of the dancers.

Remember, it is for our kids!