2025 Rules & Regulations

*PLEASE READ THOROUGHLY*

Failure to adhere to the rules below could result in
point deductions or disqualification.

Age Divisions

Petite: 8 and Under
Junior: 9-11 years
Teen: 12-14 years
Senior: 15-19 years
Adult: 20+

Quick Links

• Divisions
• Performance Division Guide
• General Information
• Music & Programs
• Performance Rules
• House Rules
• Dance Categories
• Adjudication & Scoring
• Cash Prizes

Time Deduction: A deduction of (.5) point will be made for every 15 seconds or portion thereof in excess of the time limit. To avoid deductions, please add extended time.

*If prop set-up and/or removal takes longer than 2 minutes total, and/or requires the use of power tools to build, extended time must be added to avoid point deductions.*

Media Fee – There is a $30 mandatory media fee assessed per dancer/per Regional event ($35 per dancer at Finals). This will include all of their studios’ photos, videos & video critiques from the competition. Family discounts may be available on request. Photos/Videos will be emailed directly to the studio the week following their regional event. Scores/Critiques can be found within the studios thunderstruck.dancecompgenie.com account, no later than the Wednesday following the regional event.

General Information

Rehearsing on stage prior to the start of a competition, between sessions or after the completion of a competition day is STRICTLY PROHIBITED. At no time are teachers, parents or dancers allowed to practice, rehearse, “test the
Marley” or meet on stage. Failure to abide by the aforementioned rules may result in point deductions.

IMPORTANT! Lines and Production Lines DO compete against each other, they will NOT have separate overalls. At Thunderstruck, Productions are considered a style of dance, not a group size.

REMINDER: Music Upload is MANDATORY and closes TWO weeks prior to your scheduled competition. Note, the competition schedule will NOT be sent if music has not been uploaded into the Music Manager (within the studios’ Dance Comp Genie account).

Division types are determined by the actual number of participants competing on stage at the competition, regardless of participants originally registered. It is the studio’s responsibility to notify competition staff of any division changes immediately to ensure they are eligible for overalls. An entry that changes its division type during the competition may be subject to compete as “adjudication only” at the Competition Director’s discretion.

By registering and participating in a Thunderstruck event, you agree to allow us to send you emails regarding your entries, rules, schedules and other Thunderstruck related items. Your email will never be sold to a third party. By placing your non-refundable deposit you agree and acknowledge to follow city/state/venue Covid-19 related regulations/mandates/guidelines, which will be provided to the studio account holder prior to their scheduled event, if applicable.

Audience tickets for the events are included in the price of the entry fees. All tickets and wristbands will be sent to the studio or can be picked up at the box office/merchandise stand at the theater. Same day general admission tickets will also be available on a first come, first served basis. Tickets will be limited in certain cities based on Covid-19 protocols and local mandates.

Any cancellations of entries will result in a loss of all deposits and entry fees for that event. There will be a $25 late fee per act after the final deadline date. No entries will be processed without full payment.

If you register for a specific event and end up needing to transfer your registration to a different location, there will be a $150 transfer fee.

Payment/Tiered Due Dates

*IMPORTANT REMINDER* ENTRY FEES MUST BE PAID IN FULL BY THE DEADLINE TO RECEIVE THE “VIP” or “EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT”. Placing a deposit along does NOT lock in your rate. Rates are locked in only when paid in full. The discount will NOT be applied to newly registered routines or changes made after the tiered deadline. (Ex: If you register and pay during the VIP tier but need to add a new routine during the Early Bird or General Admission tier, you will pay Early Bird or General Admission pricing.) If payment is not processed in full prior to your tiered deadline due date, your entire registration automatically bumps to the next tier. There is no grace period for our 2025 season. No exceptions. Please email info@thunderstruckdance.com with any questions about specific due dates!

**PLEASE NOTE**: After the 30-day deadline for registrations, we only accept credit card payments. If you would like to pay by cashiers check/money order after the deadline,  payment would need to be sent priority, with tracking information provided, upon written approval from Thunderstruck. While we have different payment due dates, registration is due (completed and submitted in the registration systems) no later than 30 days prior to your scheduled event.

If you are mailing your payment, it must be postmarked on or before the due date to be eligible for the “VIP” & “Early Bird Discount.” We recommend mailing your payment along with a copy of your invoice a day or two early, this will help ensure receiving a postmark on the envelope that will allow proper processing time and permit the discount. We also recommend payment being made by certified/cashiers check to avoid credit card service fees. WE NO LONGER ACCEPT PERSONAL OR STUDIO CHECKS AFTER THE 30 DAY DEADLINE. All balances must be paid in FULL prior to the competition. Absolutely NO payments will be accepted at the competition event. The schedule is only released to accounts who have uploaded their music online and have a zero balance.

If you have any questions about specific due dates for deadlines, please email info@thunderstruckdance.com and we will provide you with your exact deadlines. Although note, all deadlines and pricing can be found by logging into your Dance Comp Genie Account, and viewing the “Pricing” tab. Pricing tier dates must be followed, there is no grace period.

Entries Guidelines

We are no longer accepting paper entries. All entries must be submitted by the studio online. Registration can not be completed or paid for over the phone. Entries must be submitted and paid in full 45 days prior to Regional Competitions, and 31 days prior to the International Finals Competition, for guaranteed lowest pricing. In order to create the competition schedule, our deadlines MUST be strictly enforced. Late fees will be enforced. There is no longer a grace period. Please email the Thunderstruck office if you need to submit entries after the deadline. Entries are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and are limited to the amount of performance time available. Please note: Studios’ entries must be paid for in full in order for any changes to be made after registration has been closed online by the studio. Fees due will equal registration entry total at time of studio closing registration online. No exceptions.

We encourage you to register early to reserve your spot in our event. A non-refundable deposit is required in order to register for any 2025 event. Again, entries and payment must be submitted and paid in full 45 days prior to the competition date for Regional Competitions for guaranteed lowest pricing. Entries and payment must be submitted 31 days prior to the competition date for the International Finals Competition, for guaranteed lowest pricing. Late fees will be enforced if the account still has a balance 21 days prior to the event. (please see below for further information). If the competition reaches its routine maximum prior to your studio submitting entries, you will be denied entry.

Late Fees

-Entries/changes submitted 30 days to 22 days prior to the event: $15 late fee per entry
-Entries/changes submitted 21 days to 8 days prior to the event: $25 late fee per entry
-Entries/changes submitted 7 days to 1 day prior to the event: $50 late fee per entry

Thunderstruck reserves the right to deny change/addition requests submitted the week of the competition.

Scheduling Requests

Scheduling requests are $50 per routine if a solo or duet/trio and $125 per routine if it is a group of any size. No exceptions. Scheduling requests and their associated routine’s entry fees are non-refundable. We do not accept scheduling requests for “Sold Out” events. Scheduling requests may mean that routines dance for adjudication only. Scheduling request fees are due at the time of the request. We will try our best to accommodate all requests.

Extended Time

You can request extended time for solos, duet/trio, group and line routines prior to the competition. Extended time is charged at a rate of $4.00 per performer in the group, per every ONE minute over the allotted time.  The maximum extended time that can be added to a routine of any division is 4 minutes. The exception to this is a routine in the line division, in the Production category. Production style routines may extend time up to 11 minutes – extended time fees apply. Extended time will always be rounded up to the next minute. At Thunderstruck, Productions are considered a style of dance, not a group size.

(ex. A Small Group with 5 performers have a routine that runs 4:30. The Standard time for a Small Group is 3:00 [see above], and the routine is within the 7:00 maximum for a Small Group [3:00m + 2:00m = 5:00m]. Therefore, an additional $40.00 (5 performers x $8.00) would be added to the routine fees for this number.)

*If prop set-up and/or removal takes longer than 2 minutes total, and/or requires the use of power tools to build, extended time must be added to avoid point deductions (.5 point per judge).

Additional Fee Information

An additional 2% service charge will be applied to every credit card transaction. To avoid paying service fees, we encourage payment by cashiers/certified check. We do not accept personal or studio checks after the 30-day deadline for checks.

Independent entries are accepted. An additional $40 flat fee (regardless of number of routines) is required for students entering independently of their studio, for single entries from a studio, or a studio that has multiple entries with just one performer. This fee is to be paid independently from registration fees.

If a competition sells out, payment is due in full immediately to secure your entries. If immediate payment is not received, you risk losing your spot in the competition. Upon final payment for your routines, you will receive confirmation of your entries for review. Please review carefully right away, ensuring that you have entered all routines in the proper division and category, and double-check all birthdates to avoid change fees. Each studio that has completed registration by the VIP and Early Bird tiered deadline date, is allowed one round of complimentary changes up to 5 days after submitting their completed registration (if submitted prior to the 30 day deadline). If you are submitting registration during the General Admission phase, please ensure your registration is complete and correct. There are no complimentary changes after the first week of this phase.

Changes/newly registered routines made after the deadline are subject to a $15 late fee per change/newly registered routine. All change requests or newly registered routines submitted 21 days to 8 days prior to the event date will be assessed a $25 late fee. Any and all changes made within 7 days from the event are subject to a $50.00 change fee.

Change/late fees must be paid by credit card at the time the change(s) is made. No changes will be made without the Directors approval.

Names, ages and birth dates of all contestants must appear on the electronic entry form or it will not be accepted. Contestants will be responsible for producing proof of age should any questions arise. Failure to do so may result in disqualification and forfeiture of awards. It is the studios responsibility to ensure all names and birth dates are correct prior to submitting entries. If a birth date needs to be changed after the deadline, a change fee will apply for every routine the incorrect birth date affected.

Returned checks will be charged a $50 NSF Fee, and all future payments must be made via cashiers check or credit card.

If we receive a chargeback for a credit card payment, all future payments must be made by cashiers check.

Competition Format

Thunderstruck does not have a general schedule format that we follow at our Regional Competitions. Every regional schedule is set up based upon the breakdown of entries. The schedule is set up to best accommodate the competition and to utilize time in the most efficient way possible. This would not be possible if we followed a pre-determined format. Events will not be scheduled to perform earlier than 7:00AM on any day. Every effort will be made to schedule the last entry to perform no later than 10:00PM on Sunday nights.

Please Note:

Thunderstruck usually runs on or ahead of schedule. If you are scheduled to perform within the first 10 acts of the competition, we ask that you arrive show-ready and stretched. We recommend all other acts be prepared at least 2 hours before your scheduled time. Please be prepared to perform according to your routine number. If the competition is running early, you must still perform in numerical order. Failure to perform in order could result in dancing for adjudication only. Legitimate costume change issues of less than four routines will be accommodated. In the interest of running on time, Thunderstruck reserves the right to modify the schedule. The wrongful holding of numbers may result in disqualification. If you are rehearsing your routines when you are scheduled to be on stage performing, Thunderstruck reserves the right to withhold the routine from overalls and/or process a point deduction. *Reminder*If we are running early (which is more often than not) competitors are still expected to dance in their assigned numerical order. The published dance time is just an approximate, not set in stone. Do not withhold from competing because it is “not time” yet.

Block Scheduling

Due to local and/or venue Covid-19 regulations, a block studio schedule may be necessary at your event. Studio directors will be notified prior to their event date.

If you attend an event with a block schedule: Adjudication awards will be given at the event, but not announced. A list will be given to each studio director with the placements listed. Overall awards will be mailed out to each studio the week after the event -There is no additional cost for shipping in this circumstance. An online awards ceremony will take place no later than the Tuesday or Wednesday after your event date.

Locations, Cancellations & Refunds

Thunderstruck reserves the right to add additional competition days and/or move the competition location due to unforeseen circumstances, including pandemics. Any change in competition days/dates and/or times is at the sole discretion of Thunderstruck and will be determined by the amount of time available at each regional competition.

Thunderstruck reserves the right to cancel, reschedule or postpone to a later date, any competition due to weather, number of entries, or any other circumstance deemed necessary, including but not limited to pandemics. A postponed event is that which has been moved to a later date within the same calendar year at a venue within a 60 mile radius as the originally scheduled venue. A cancelled competition is that which will not be rescheduled within the same calendar year.

In the event of a cancelled competition, all entry fees including deposits will be refunded only if paid by cashiers/certified check. There will be *NO* refunds for entries paid by credit card (deposit or balance), and registration fees will be applied towards your studio account as full credit at a future Thunderstruck event.

In the event of a postponed competition, registrants will have the following options:

Option 1 – Registration transfer to another 2025 Thunderstruck Regional or Finals event.

Option 2 – If a 2025 registered studio is not interested in any available performance option, a full refund will be given for covid-related venue postponements, only to registrants with original payment made by check. Payments made by credit card will receive account credit only towards a future Thunderstruck event.

Refund Policy

Entry fees are non-refundable but are transferable if the contestant or Studio wish to apply it to another competition within the same competitive season upon Thunderstruck’s approval. In the circumstance of individual dancer injury, Thunderstruck will provide a 100% credit towards the “studio account” for the dancer’s non-competed routines to the Studio. Studio must submit a letter listing the competitor’s affected routines. A medical certificate or doctor’s note must also be provided. Credit notes are valid for the current competition season only and can be used by the studio for future entry fees. With no exceptions, there are no refunds for entries that fail to perform at the competition. There are no monetary refunds – The one exception is for graduating seniors who are injured (with a doctors note provided), who’ve paid via check.

Regardless of form of payment, if a studio/dancer/dancers family chooses not to compete due to noncompliance with local/venue Covid-19 regulations a credit will be held on the studio account for future use- There will be no refunds given under this circumstance. Any registered dances that fail to perform for any reasons not mentioned above, are not entitled to a credit or refund of any kind.

Determining Age Divisions

• The age cut-off for the calculation for divisions is January 1st, 2025.
• For Duet/Trios & Groups, if there is a decimal place, the total age is rounded down (the decimal place is dropped).
• Our registration system will calculate the proper division for your routines.

Solos

The average age cut-off for all solos is January 1st, 2025.

Soloists may compete unlimited solos provided they follow the dance category rule.

Duet / Trios

Add the age of each dancer as of January 1st, 2025 and divide by the number of performers. If there is a decimal place, it is removed. For instance, for a duet with a 14 year old and a 15 year old, the calculation would be 14.5 years. The “.5” is dropped and the age for the routine would be 14 and perform in the Teen Division.

Groups

Add the age of each dancer as of January 1st, 2025 and divide by the number of performers. If there is a decimal place, it is removed.

Adult / Teacher / Professional Rule

Any performer 20 years or older is considered an Adult. All teachers and/or professional dancers of any age, are included in this division; and may only dance in a lower age division with the approval from Thunderstruck.

Any routine competing in any specific category, containing 1 adult or professional/teacher dancer must perform in the Adult Division. An entry found using a professional or teacher (of any age) will be moved to this division, and may be penalized or disqualified at the discretion of the competition director. Any routine that has a professional/teacher performing in it, can not be registered at the Future Star level.

Routines in the Adult division will not be used in determining any Eye of the Storm Awards.

Exception to Age Calculation Rule

At the discretion of the Studio Director/Choreographer, when the most experienced dancer(s) may be in a higher division than the actual age calculation, and the routine belongs in the higher division, the Studio Director can have the routine dance in the division of the most experienced dancer. With the moving of a routine division, a standard $15 per change fee applies, if change is made from the 31-day deadline to 15 days prior to the event. If the change occurs 14 days to 8 days prior to the event, a $25 change fee applies. Any and all changes made within 7 days from the event, are subject to a $50.00 change fee.

Performance Division Guide

Thunderstruck Dance Competition has four Performance Divisions.

Future Star  |  Shining Star  |  Rock Star |  Special Star

Performance Division level changes are no longer allowed at the event. Please ensure ALL of your dancers and routines are registered at the correct level. If absolutely necessary, you can move up a level at the event (change fees will apply), however; you can never move down a level under any circumstance. The divisions were created to increase competition among skill levels, provide more recognition to performers, and to allow us to do our favorite thing – give out more cash and awards as there will be overalls for all four (4) divisions. Note, the winner of the Future Star division receives credit for the future, while Shining Star and Rock Star divisions receive CASH awards.

Unlike most if not all other competitions that establish criteria for which division a performance should be classified, we feel that this is difficult if not impossible to regulate. Alternatively, we are providing the following guideline to help you determine the best Division for each of your performances and trust you will make the appropriate decisions.  If a dancer has placed in the Top 3 in any given division (aside from Rock Star), we recommend moving the dancer up to the next level the following year.

(Ex: When teaching, you may have 3 classes of jazz for age 12. As a teacher, you would separate them as levels A,B,C. We encourage you placing students into competitive levels in the same manner.)

Future Star Division

The Future Star division is for students getting started in dance. This is a beginner level. (i.e. we should not see a clean Triple, clean Fouettés/À La Seconde Turns in this division.) Dancers in this division should truly be novice and not have more than a couple years of training in a particular discipline with minimal to no competitive experience. We understand that some new dancers transfer from a gymnast background, therefore; we do allow ariels and other acro movements in this category.

Open to all Age Groups

Shining Star Division

The Shining Star division is for intermediate/experienced dancers. They will have completed years of training in a discipline and are comfortable in a competitive environment.

Open to all Age Groups

Rock Star Division

The Rock Star division is for the dancing elite.  This is our advanced division. A Rock Star performer will have dedicated years of training and spends significant hours each week perfecting dance skills either on their own, as part of school programs, or through professional instruction at the studio.

Open to Juniors, Teens & Seniors

Special Star Division

This division is specially designed for dancers with special needs or disabilities who love to share the love of dance. Please reach out if you have any questions regarding this division.

Please note the following:

1. We reserve the right for our Judges to alter the division of dancer if it is deemed necessary. The Competition Director will inform the studio of this decision.
2. A Rock Star performer cannot dance in the Future Star division.
3. You can perform in a higher age division if desired.

Title Competition / Dance Icon

Our title competition is for the dancing elite. Petites compete at the Shining Star level, while Juniors/Teens/Seniors compete at the Rock Star level. *IMPORTANT NOTE* The registration system will not allow you to register a title routine at a “lower level” for this division.

Petite Miss & Mr. Dance Icon: 8 and Under

Junior Miss & Mr. Dance Icon: 9-11 years

Teen Miss & Mr. Dance Icon: 12-14 years

Senior Miss & Mr. Dance Icon: 15-19 years

REGIONAL TITLE CATEGORY

Participants in the above age categories may compete one title solo (per dance style) in the title division at our regional events. All entries compete at the highest level for their age division. Regional title solos are eligible for regular solo competition overalls. Please note, only the highest scoring solo (whether it’s a title solo or a regular competitive solo) will place in overalls.

Title competitors will have an onstage interview prior to their performance. They will be asked their name, age, studio and one simple, dance related question. The question is not scored at regionals – Although; it is scored at Nationals.

Female title winners will receive a tiara, sash, and trophy. Male winners will receive a Thunderstruck hat, sash, and trophy. Winners, once they provide Thunderstruck with a full color and high resolution digital headshot, will be listed on the “Dance Icon” page on our website. If competing at International Finals, Title winners are guaranteed a spot, with a section featuring the title performers, in our Opening Routine for our International Finals Dance Down.

First and second runner ups in each age division will also be announced and awarded with a plaque.

Performers that wish to upgrade their solo to the title division at the event will incur a $60 total fee. Upgrade to the title division must occur prior to the solo performing.

Title competitors that are adjudicated an Elite High Gold or above, are eligible to compete in the International Title Category at our International Finals.

INTERNATIONAL TITLE CATEGORY

If you would like to compete your title solo in the regular competitive division as well, additional entry fees apply, and the solo will be performed twice. (i.e. – a soloist can compete in the regular competitive solo division, and a second time in the title division with the same solo, as title solos are NOT included in overalls in the regular competitive division, and are completely separate category with their own top 10.) Applicable entry fees apply if entering both divisions. Only ONE title solo is allowed per dancer, for the International Title category. International Title registration for each performer includes the following:

• -One title solo performance
• -Admission into all International Finals workshop classes
• -Admission into the title performers only master class
• -Guaranteed a spot, with a section featuring the titlist performers, in our Opening Routine for our International Finals Dance Down (required t-shirt is included in title solo fees)
• -Eligibility (with compliance of the below participation rules) for the title Grand Prize

Participants in the International Title Category must have been adjudicated an Elite High Gold or above in their title performance at a regional event. Participants may compete ONE solo in the International Title Category. The same routine competed in the title division at a regional event must be competed at the International Finals Title Category. Absolutely no song changes or style of dance changes will be permitted. Finals title solos are not eligible for regular solo competition overalls, they have a separate overall with an even higher cash prize. You are able to register the same solo, a secondary time in the regular overall top 10 – All applicable entry fees apply.

Eligibility Requirements for Title Grand Prize: Along with their title solo performance and stage question*, competitors in the International Title Category are required to: participate in the Opening Routine rehearsals and performance at International Finals, participate in all scheduled workshop classes in their designated age group, and participate in the exclusive title performers only master class. Dancers that do not complete all of the requirements will be disqualified from winning the title of Miss or Mr. Dance Icon and the Title Grand Prize.

*The question your performer will be asked on stage will be included in the final routine score. This portion makes up a total of 15 points between all 3 judges and will be categorized under “Age Appropriate/Skill Level”. This is for Nationals ONLY, as the question is not scored at regional events.

Female International Title winners will receive a tiara, sash, and trophy. Male International Title winners will receive a Thunderstruck hat, sash, and trophy. In addition, winners will receive a $200 cash prize (*there must be 5 title competitors in a given division for a cash prize to be awarded), as well as the opportunity to win the Title Grand Prize.

If first and second place contestants are within a 1-point spread, the winner is decided by a Thunderstruck panel vote.

INTERNATIONAL TITLE GRAND PRIZE – The highest scoring title winner, male or female of any age, will become the Grand Thunderstruck Title winner of 2025. This dancer will be awarded a trip to participate Internationally in LONDON, ENGLAND!

Grand Title Winners can NOT win the grand prize multiple times within the same age division, but are able to win individual Title within their own age group each consecutive year. Grand Title Winners are only eligible to win the grand prize once per age division.

The grand prize includes the following:

– Roundtrip airfare from USA (Departing airport will be one of the following: Denver, LOS ANGELES, Washington D.C. area, or NYC) to London for the Grand Title winner and one chaperone (Departing location will be determined and supplied by July 10, 2025)

– Winner will receive hotel accommodations (one room with 2 beds) for the duration of their trip while in London.

– Winner and chaperone will receive passes and/OR entry into the competition.

– Winner will compete one solo at the competition, and may have the opportunity to take workshop classes and/or enter improv competition. Dance opportunities subject to change with updated rules and regulations from selected competition.

– Winner will be mentored throughout the event and competition by Thunderstruck Dance Directors.

– Winner and chaperone will receive tickets to see a show on the ICONIC West End.

– Winner and chaperone will also receive two additional nights stay (one room with 2 beds) in the centre of LONDON, to explore and have some fun!

-Estimated flight dates are: TBA.

Failure to comply with listed participation rules at Thunderstruck Finals disqualifies the soloist from Title & Grand Prize eligibility.

Full rules and details on the grand prize will be provided upon being crowned at Thunderstruck International Finals 2025. Winner must respond with complete information requested to Thunderstruck by no later than TBA, or the prize is forfeited and awarded to the next runner up for the Thunderstruck Grand Title winner. Prize is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, in which the winner would be awarded a prize of equal or greater value.

(Exact dates and flights will be provided by approximately July 10th, 2025, or once schedule is released to Thunderstruck by competition/chaperone will have the ability to extend their trip if they wish (fees will apply).

Failure to comply with listed participation rules at Thunderstruck Finals disqualifies the soloist from Title Grand Prize eligibility.

Dance Down at International Finals

The SIX highest scoring groups (Small Groups, Large Groups or Lines) from different studios, in the following age divisions and performance levels will be chosen for the Dance Down to re-compete for bigger cash prizes and true first place. All participating groups will be interviewed backstage – Interviews are broadcast LIVE to the audience!

• • Future Star – Petite, Junior
  • Shining Star – Petite, Junior, Teen, Senior
  • Rock Star – Junior, Teen, Senior
    

All Title winners, along with the highest scoring solo & duet/trio in all age divisions at the Shining Star & Rock Star level, will be asked to showcase their solo/duet/trio during the Dance Down.

Liability and Release

Any dancer participating in a Thunderstruck Dance Competition event is understood to recognize the risks inherent in dance and dance performances. Participation in this convention/competition indicates the acceptance of such risks by contestants and their parents/guardians. Thunderstruck assumes no responsibility for personal injury or property loss at these events. Choreographers, teachers, and performers automatically grant permission to Thunderstruck Dance Competition to use their photos for publicity purposes, including ads, television, videotaping and film broadcasting in connection with promotional campaigns. Thunderstruck Dance Competition will not be responsible for injury or loss of belongings. Thunderstruck Dance Competition reserves the right to disqualify any contestants infringing on the rules.

Any concerns or complaints must be received in writing to:

• • Director
  • Thunderstruck Dance Competition
  • 6720 N, Hualapai Way, Ste 145 #146
  • Las Vegas, NV United States of America 89149

We are always interested in improving and receiving feedback. Please sign all letters so that we have the opportunity to respond to your concerns.

Thunderstruck reserves the right to update rules and regulations as needed.

Music & Programs

It is required that each participating studio has proper music licensing (ASCAP, BMI, etc.).

MANDATORY MUSIC UPLOAD

Music upload is mandatory – Your schedule will NOT be sent if your music is not uploaded.

Thunderstruck uses an electronic music file upload system for all performances. Studios have access to their own Music Manager upload page within their online account on the Thunderstruck website. It is mandatory for all studios to submit their competition music electronically using the Music Manager. Music files can only be uploaded after entries have been registered. The Music Manager will assign the file names automatically once upload is complete.

1. Please be sure to upload the exact version of your performance music, because pitch/speed of music cannot be adjusted at the event. You are able to play back the track to ensure the right cut has been uploaded.
2. Thunderstruck supports MP3 & M4A files.
3. Music Manager will be closed on Monday, two weeks before the scheduled competition you are attending. Thunderstruck will not accept new versions of music files at the competition. It is the studios responsibility to ensure the right cut of music is uploaded- Please listen to the music after uploading to ensure it is the right cut. A re-dance is not permitted if the wrong music is submitted. Thunderstruck will only use backup media formats if there are technical difficulties.
4. Thunderstruck requires that all studios bring a backup USB for all performances in the event of a malfunction of the original music submitted. Please hold on to your backups until they are requested. Music can be picked up at the sound table at the conclusion of each presentation of awards. Music that is not claimed at the end of the competition will be discarded unless previous arrangements were made with the Thunderstruck office.

Back-ups

Recommended  USB Flash Drive MP3 Files: Each Studio is responsible to bring back-up music for each performance and provide it to the Competition Director or Stage Manager immediately if there is a technical problem. It is very important the following directions are observed if using a flash drive. Each song must be named in the following format: 3-digit routine number _song title_ studio name.  EXAMPLE: A dancer is routine #1 in the competition, she is dancing to Supermodel, and her studio name is The Studio. The file on the flash drive would be labeled:  001_Supermodel_TheStudio.mp3. Please note that it is pertinent that you respect the zeros in the performance numbering so that songs are properly sorted. Routine numbers will always be 3 digits long at regional events.

NOT Recommended – iPhones/iPods/Emails If you are providing an ipod/iphone without an audio jack it is your responsibility to provide the dongle/adaptor associated with plugging into our sound system. Also be sure that your lock screen is OFF and your phone is in AIRPLANE MODE, to not disrupt the performance if a text/notification comes in. Again, these devices are NOT recommended to be used as back ups – USB backups are ALWAYS preferred.

NOT ACCEPTED – Music CDs

Studio / Teacher Program

Studios will receive a free program which can be picked up at the merchandise/program table. Complimentary programs may be picked up by the studio director only. Limit up to 4 per studio (rules apply). Note:  Independent registrants as well as registered studios with one performer, are excluded.

Performance Rules

Dancers must perform in their scheduled order unless special permission is given by Thunderstruck for costume changes. Points may be deducted from acts that do not comply. Dancers who do not perform within 10 acts of their assigned routine number may have points deducted, be ineligible for Overalls and may be adjudicated only. Special stage or house lighting will not be provided for any performance.

Rehearsing on stage prior to the start of a competition, between sessions or after the completion of a competition day is STRICTLY PROHIBITED. At no time are teachers, parents or dancers allowed to practice, rehearse or meet on stage. Failure to abide by the aforementioned rules may result in point deductions.

Competitors are expected to check-in with the Stage Manager within 3-5 numbers of their scheduled performance; and perform in the order published, unless given permission by Thunderstruck prior to the competition. Unauthorized delay of the performance schedule may result in a point deduction or disqualification. Dances not performing within 10 acts of their scheduled performance order may not be eligible for Overall awards, unless pre-approved by Thunderstruck.

Uncompleted acts (ex: student exits stage in the middle of routine) may result in point deductions or be scored lower by the judging panel, and will not be included in Overall awards. An act that re-performs (only at the discretion of Thunderstruck, if time permits) may only be re-scored/eligible for Overall awards, if during the original performance the technical error was committed on Thunderstruck’s behalf.

Prop & Littering Rule

Each person who steps foot on stage and is visible during a routine, whether it be 5 seconds or 5 minutes, must pay their applicable entry fee. Any living, breathing, human will not be considered a prop. Please note, the age calculation rule also applies.

We do not have prop storage areas (aside from International Finals). Props must be loaded in and out of the venue on the same day they are used, preferably within 5-10 routines of competing. Storing props in the wings or backstage is not allowed. Thunderstruck will not be responsible for props left overnight or unattended.

Any special requests for the assembling of props must be discussed with Thunderstruck upon arrival to the venue. If props require the use of power tools to build, extended time must be purchased. No exceptions. It is the studios responsibility to return the stage/backstage area to its original pre-performance condition, which includes cleaning/sweeping up sawdust or wood chips. This is for the safety of our performers. Point deductions will result if the stage is not completely cleaned in the time permitted and/or the stage is not returned to its original pre-performance condition. The use of power tools, backstage or in the wings, is strictly prohibited while routines are performing on stage.

Props must be built off-stage and carried, not dragged, onto the stage. Props must have the proper protection on its’ bottom surfaces to prevent damage to the marley floor surface. If the marley is damaged, the routine will be deducted up to 10 points, and/or may become disqualified.

For further safety measures, a dancer may not be physically placed or stand on a prop/scenic piece that is more than 6ft high. Fire (including candles, matches, lighters), fireworks (including sparklers), swords, knives and live animals are strictly prohibited on stage and at all venues. Toy weapons are acceptable. With that said, toys may not fire projectile objects or have blunt points or sharp edges. No special hanging scenery, lighting, smoke, dry ice or devices that require an electrical outlet may be used. Battery-operated props are recommended. Helium balloons are only allowed if they are weighted and if permitted by the contracted venue.  Studios are responsible for getting props on and off stage as quickly as possible.

Substances which alter the condition of the stage are prohibited. No rosin,  no form of liquid, gel, water (on body, costume, or prop), wet paint (on body, costume, or prop), aerosol (including hairspray or spray paint), glitter (on body, costume, or prop), sand, fake snow, fake blood, confetti (of any size), excessive small items, etc. may be used that would affect the dancing surface. Absolutely no use of feathers (unless on costume), hay, sand, leaves, or any other allergenic item may be used. No exceptions. With use of any of the above said items, the routine will be deducted 10 points and/or the competition director reserves the right to disqualify the routine to perform. In the event that the stage requires a break (longer than two minutes, or it’s allowed extended time if applicable) in the performances to clean off the stage, a cleaning fee will be charged to the studio and the routine will be deducted .5 point per judge. It is the studios responsibility to return the stage back to it’s pre-performance condition – If the stage or marley is damaged/littered as a result of misuse, the Studio will be liable for damages.

Deductions – New for 2025

If a routine is entered in the incorrect dance category, there will be a .5 point deduction per judge and the routine will be moved into the correct category.

If prop set-up and removal takes more than two minutes total, extended time must be added to the routine upon registration. Please refer to “Extended Time” section on page 3. If extended time is not added, the routine will be deducted .5 point per judge from their overall score, citing “prop rule.”

Routines that have more than 3 tricks/passes in any category other than Acro, Hip Hop, Open, Production. & Pom will be deducted .5 point per judge.

Inappropriate movements & suggestive gestures/routine content/inappropriate costuming will incur a 1-point deduction per judge.

In the event that the stage requires a break (longer than two minutes, or it’s allowed extended time if applicable) in the competition to clean off the stage, the routine will be deducted .5 point per judge.

If the marley is damaged as a result of misuse, the Studio will be liable for damages and the routine will be deducted up to 10 points.

Microphones

One handheld microphone can be provided by Thunderstruck, depending on equipment available in each city, for the song & dance category. We do not allow any outside mic plots/sound equipment to be plugged into our system.

Lyrical / Routine Content and Sportsmanship

Thunderstruck prohibits the use of inappropriate language backstage and in songs, vulgar and suggestive gestures in routines, or non-age appropriate costuming. If music has been edited and dancers lip sync inappropriate lyrics, the routine will be deducted. Failure to comply WILL result in disqualification or point deductions. Disqualification is at the sole discretion of Thunderstruck Dance Competition Director and/or Management.

Sportsmanlike behavior is expected at all times from competitors as well as Studio Directors, Teachers and especially Choreographers. Failure to display proper decorum could result in immediate disqualification/removal from venue and/or account deactivation.

Re-dance

A re-dance will be at the discretion of the competition director and will be permitted with no penalty, for technical difficulties on Thunderstruck’s side only. If a dancer stops dancing for any other reason, they are judged upon what they have performed, without a second chance and are NOT included in Overall Awards. If the wrong music or cut of music is provided to Thunderstruck at an event, and the dancers perform to this music, a re-dance is not allowed. A re-dance may be requested by the Studio Director, however, the performance will not qualify for overall awards or Eye of the Storm awards and will not be re-scored. A re-dance is at the sole discretion of Thunderstruck and we reserve the right to refuse re-dances if time does not permit.

House Rules

Video & Photography

The use of photo/recording devices of ANY kind (including cellphones, cameras & go-pros) is STRICTLY PROHIBITED in the theatre. Thunderstruck does not allow the use of audience photography or videography of onstage performances for the protection of our competitors and choreographers. Failure to comply with this rule WILL result in a point deduction to the act being recorded and/or photographed as well as confiscation of the recordings and/or photographs. It is the responsibility of the studio owner/director to inform their students and parents/relatives of the NO photo/video rule. We urge all studio owners, teachers, and especially parents to keep our performers photographically safe. The use of cameras, cell phone cameras, go pros or any recording device, will lead to point deductions and/or disqualification. Thunderstruck staff reserves the right to confiscate any devices that are suspected of use in recording of onstage performances to inspect before returning to the owner. Photos/videos are included with your media fee.

Cell Phones & Other Distractions

Cell phones should not be used during performances. Thunderstruck staff reserves the right to ask any attendee to step out of the performance if they are distracting the performers or audience around them.  Performers and family members want to enjoy shows that are free of noise and distraction. Thunderstruck reserves the right to ask anyone to leave if their behavior is disruptive to others.

Please do not exit/enter the theater in between routines. This obstructs the view of our media team, and in turn, can obstruct our photos/videos included in your media package. Please have respect for the dancers on stage, and their families/studios who came to watch them.

Outside Vendors

Thunderstruck Dance Competition makes every effort to align with reputable vendors (photographers, videographers, etc) at various events. Thunderstruck Dance Competition is not responsible for any unfulfilled orders resulting in a financial loss for the customer that may be caused as a direct result from the business practice of its vendors.

Dressing Rooms and Lobby

The performance venue, lobby and dressing rooms will be opened 30 minutes before the start of the competition and close 30 minutes after the last awards session. Dressing rooms are NOT assigned- they are first-come, first-serve. Dressing rooms are expected to be shared by ALL studios. Be respectful of others around you and do not move other studios’ belongings. In the event that you require additional theatre and/or technical time to set-up a performance, please inform us prior to the event so logistics can be organized. Depending on the nature of these requirements, set-up, take-down or cleaning may be charged for this time. Please keep watch of all personal items left in public dressing room areas. Thunderstruck is not responsible for any items that have been misplaced, stolen or left at the venue.

Dance Categories

Contestants may enter as many categories as desired, but each routine must be different. Competitors cannot compete against themselves, meaning they cannot enter more than once in the same category and age group. For Duet/Trios, there must be at least one different competitor. For Groups, there must be a minimum of 1 change in competitors for it to be considered a different group. If these minimums cannot be met, they must move up an age level or enter one of the second performances as Open.

Up to 3 acrobatic tricks, which is defined as any trick with legs making a rotation over the head (i.e.- aerials, back-handsprings, cartwheel, etc), are allowed in all categories. Any routines with four or more acrobatic tricks must be placed in the acrobatic, open, hip hop, or pom categories. A tumbling pass is considered one acro/gymnastic trick.

At the discretion of the Judges’, a .5 point deduction from each judges score will be enforced if guidelines for the selected dance category are not met, or for routines with 3 or more tricks being placed in categories other than open, acrobatic, hip hop or pom. Thunderstruck Dance Competition reserves the right to change categories of a routine if they deem it necessary – This will incur a deduction. If a teacher discovers category misplacement of their routine prior to the performance, please discuss options for change with the regional competition director – Change fees will apply.

Acrobatic Dance

A routine demonstrating controlled moves incorporated with music. The majority of the routine must consist of acrobatic moves and tricks.

Ballet

Routine must consist of ballet technique movements and classical steps.

Character

Any form of dance portraying a known personality from stage, television or film.

Clogging

A routine must contain clogging style and technique.

Contemporary

Routine consists of modern and ballet technique, reaching beyond the standard jazz vocabulary.

Ethnic

Routine that is characteristic of a particular cultural group.

Hip-Hop

Routine must consist primarily of hip-hop technique. Unlimited acro/tricks.

Jazz

Routine must consist primarily of jazz technique.

Lyrical

Routine contains a mixture of jazz and ballet, emphasizing strength, control, and interpretation.

Modern

Routine must consist of modern technique, movement and choreography.

Musical Theater

Must incorporate some form of dance and either singing, acting, or portraying a character.

Open

Any routine that combines multiple styles and categories. Unlimited acro/tricks.

Pointe

Dance consisting of ballet technique combined with the use of Pointe shoes. Routine must have half the dancers on pointe or half the routine performed on pointe.

Pom

Performance using pom-pons for at least 80% of the routine, incorporating precise and definite movements. Unlimited acro/tricks.

Production

Must have a minimum of 20 dancers, incorporating any number of style(s) of dance. Routine must have a concept that’s followed throughout the routine, involving a story/movie/show, etc. Unlimited acro/tricks.

Song & Dance

Any form of dance combined with vocals. Must contain a minimum of 50% dance. Prerecorded vocals are not permitted during the song portion of the performance.

Tap

Routine must consist primarily of tap technique. No tap sounds are permitted on the music.

Adjudication & Scoring

Judges

Thunderstruck Dance Competition’s judges are educated and trained professionals in multiple genres of dance and are sensitive to the various skill levels represented by the dancers’ differing ages, skill level, and performance skills. They range from championship-caliber competition studio directors, teachers affiliated with major dance studios, and choreographers with major dance productions to dance professionals currently performing. This mixture of age, breadth of dance experience, and extensive background in performing arts contribute to the diverse range of feedback our judges offer all our competitors. Judges’ feedback for every entry includes comments/scores for Technique (30), Choreography (30), Performance (30), Age Appropriate/Skill Level (5) and Costume (5).

Adjudication Packages

Three judges will adjudicate each entry. Judges will critique each entry on an individual recording, digitally. Each adjudication will be recorded during the performance and supplemented with judges scores. All three judges will be on separate recordings meaning there will be three separate critiques for each performance. Adjudication packages will be uploaded to your studios’ Dance Comp Genie account at the completion of the event. Please allow up to 3 days for the adjudication packages to be uploaded and available on your account. The studios’ music can be picked up at the sound table. If music is not picked up at the end of the event, it will be left at the competition venue.

Scoring

We use an electronic scoring system that allows judges to have a view of scoring. This helps to maintain consistent scoring throughout the competition with criteria to ensure each performance receives a well-rounded critique. Judges also maintain notes for Judges Choice Awards.

Tie: In the event of a tie, the performance with the highest average technical score will receive the higher placement. If the average technical score remains a tie, a vote of all three judges will determine the higher placement.

Awards

Cash Prizes

Up to $15,000 in total prizes can be awarded at every competition!

Thunderstruck Dance Competition offers an outstanding package of prizes, awards, and recognition. Cash prizes will be awarded to the first overall winners in both the Shining Star and Rock Star divisions for solos, duos/trios and groups, provided there are 10 or more registrations per division. Future Star first overall winners will be awarded credit towards International Finals during the same competitive season, or a regional event the following season provided there are 10 or more registrations per division. Future Star cash awards are not valid for credit beyond the following season.

Overall Top 10

At Thunderstruck, we have an overall Top 10 for each age division and performance division level.

Overall Highest Score

The highest scoring winners of each age division and performance division level win special recognition.

Judges Awards

Thunderstruck Dance Competition’s Judges Awards are determined by the Judges and given out throughout each dance competition at the start of each award ceremony. Typically, there is an award ceremony at the end of each division. If divisions are combined based on the number of entries, it will be at the discretion of the judges if they wish to select a choice from each division or solely from the group of performances.

Workshop Scholarships

Workshop scholarship winners are hand selected by our judges, and presented to each dancer by the event director. Workshop scholarships are valid for entry into convention classes at International Finals in Las Vegas over the summer.

Studio Spirit Award

This award is picked out by the stage manager and will be presented to the studio displaying the most studio spirit, enthusiasm, and exceptional sportsmanlike behavior. A certificate for $250 toward International Finals entries is awarded to the Studio Spirit regional winner.

Eye of the Storm Awards

These awards are presented at the end of the Competition. Award winners are selected across all divisions and dance styles (with the exception of the Tap Excellence Award).

Each of the following award winners will be listed in the results for the Regional Competition.

Tap Excellence

This award is chosen by the Judges who use criteria of score, choreography, performance, and technique to select the best tap performance from the competition. A certificate for $250 toward International Finals entries is also awarded.

Best Choreography

This award is selected by the Judges and can include any form of dance. It pays tribute to the creativity, hard work, and persistence required by a choreographer to train competitors to deliver a memorable performance. The performance is one that tells a compelling story, combines originality and technique, and is executed with the precision required of a well-rehearsed routine. A certificate for $250 toward International Finals entries is also awarded.

Most Entertaining

This award is chosen by the Judges with a focus on the energy and spirit of the performance over technique. It is often a routine that engages the audience and is enjoyed by those performing. The most entertaining award is open to all forms and divisions. A certificate for $250 toward International Finals entries is also awarded.

Creative Concept

This award is given to the routine that portrays the most originality and creativity. It is open to all divisions and all forms of dance. A certificate for $250 toward International Finals entries is also awarded.

Video Choice Award

Awarded at the end of the competition, prior to Eye of the Storm Awards; Judges will select a performance with ground-shaking energy to represent the regional attended, in an online competition. A certificate for $250 toward International Finals entries is awarded to the VCA regional winner. The VCA winner from each 2025 regional city is showcased on the Thunderstruck Facebook page. The winner will be selected based on the results of online voting from a poll on the official Thunderstruck Facebook page. Information on the voting window will be released at the end of the 2025 regional season. The winner of the Facebook poll will win an all-expense paid in-studio workshop in the summer of 2025!

Top Studio

This award is selected based on the calculation of adding a studio’s highest-scoring petite group and/or junior group, teen group and/or senior group, and two wildcard groups. The highest overall score wins and is awarded the Top Studio Award. The Top Studio at each of our Regional Competitions will win a $1000 certificate toward entries for our International Finals and a $500 certificate towards an in-studio workshop. Each Top Studio winner will also be eligible to win an all-expense paid Thunderstruck Workshop in your studio. The workshop winner is selected using a poll on our official Thunderstruck Facebook page.

Our International Finals Top Studio will win FREE ENTRIES for 2026’s Thunderstruck International Finals, up to a $10,000 value. Please see rules/options below.

Prize Rules:

$10,000 2025 International Finals entries value: The 2025 Top Studio must qualify their entries at a 2026 Regional competition event. The 2025 Top Studio must provide a list of first and last names associated with 2026 room reservations at Green Valley Ranch for the 2026 International Finals Competition. Prize is eligible only if the 2025 International Top Studio provides proof of booking a minimum of 35 rooms per night under the Thunderstruck Dance Competition block, each room checking in the day before the competition begins and checking out the day after competition ends. (No third party booking websites will be honored, i.e. Groupon, Hotels.com, etc.) The Top Studio’s entries will be FREE up to a $10,000 value, in which thereafter they are required to pay 2026 Finals pricing for the remaining balance. Proof of rooms must be provided by no later than 45 days prior to the event start date. Rooms will be cross-referenced at the conclusion of the event. If less than 35 rooms were checked into per night, Thunderstruck reserves the right to bill studio for entire 2026 International Finals registration balance. Prize is invalid beyond 2026, no cash value.

If unable to attend our 2026 International Finals, the 2025 Top Studio will be awarded a $5000 credit towards a 2026 regional event. Prize is invalid beyond 2026, no cash value.