Frequently Asked Questions

Is this event only open to the LGTB community?

No, Floorplay is open to everyone, and everyone is welcome to compete regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.  Couples should dance either as same-sex couples or reverse-role couples (female leader and male follower).  For reverse-role couples, the female must lead at least 75% of the time.  There is also an open-role category in which any configuration of gender and gender expression is allowed; however, competitors who enter in the open-role category must also register to dance at least one style of dance as a same-sex or reverse-role couple.  Couples competing in the open-role category are not eligible for NASSPDA titles.

 

What is appropriate to wear as a competitor?

Dance costumes are encouraged, but not required.  If you are not going to wear a dance costume, wear something comfortable and appropriate for the style of dance you are competing in.  Basic black is always appropriate.  Jeans are not appropriate unless you are competing in "Country Dance".  Additionally, dance shoes are encouraged; but, if you do not have dance shoes, be sure to wear a shoe with a leather sole/bottom.

 

What is Student-Teacher?

A couple is considered to be Student-Teacher (AKA Pro-Am) if (a) one dancer is paying the other to dance with them during any part of the competition and/or (b) a couple self-identifies as a Pro-Am couple by entering as such.  Pro-am couples must identify themselves as such in the appropriate spot on the Competition Registration Form and will be judged separately.  When Pro-am couples register, they will need to identify whether they belong in the beginning, intermediate, or advanced level based on the proficiency of the student. The couple will be judged based only on the student’s performance. Pro-am couples are not eligible to win championship titles.

 

What is a One-Dance Event?

It is a single dance, danced in competition against other couples of the same proficiency level. One-Dance Events have a style and a level as shown below.  Please see our rules and regulations for more information. Styles: International Standard, International Latin, American Smooth, & American Rhythm Levels: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced.

 

What is a Graded Event?

A Graded Event is a multiple-dance competition in which your proficiency level is determined only after you dance for a panel of grading judges. Men’s and Women’s International Standard, International Latin, American Smooth, American Rhythm as Graded Events.

 

What is NASSPDA?

The North American Same-Sex Partner Dance Association (NASSPDA) is a membership organization committed to the promotion and expansion of social and competitive same-sex partner dancing, which includes Ballroom, Latin, Swing, Country Western, and other partner dances, as well as different styles within those terms, such as International and American Style. NASSPDA acknowledges and celebrates its origins in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community.  For more information, visit NASSPDA.org.

 

Can couples switch between leading and following?

Switching between lead and follow is permitted in same-sex dancing.  While you do not get extra points for changing roles with your partner, the judges are encouraged to reward those couples who switch over those who don’t if their dancing is otherwise equivalent.  If a couple does decide to change roles, those changes should be integrated into the dancing in a way that does not disrupt the flow of the dancing. For reverse-role couples, the woman must lead at least 75% of the time.

 

Who is eligible to win Floorplay’s Best of the Best Dance Trophy Competition?

All same-sex, non-pro-am couples who are the Graded A level champions will compete to win the Best of the Best Dance Trophy Competition. 

 

Can I enter with multiple partners?

You may enter with multiple partners, but you cannot enter the same event with more than one partner in the same age category and level.

 

 

Do I need to bring my own music?

Generally, no.  Music will be provided and will be appropriate to the dance style.  The only exception is that Formation Teams and Show Dance contestants must bring their own music.