[DavidB]

There has been some discussion about competitions including the recent Bristol one, and in particular the judging. I don't think anyone should question the judges' actual decision - it is final. But one of the topics of the discussion is knowing in any future competitions what the judges are looking for.

So what would you look for? Four questions (and my answers in blue)

What do you believe are the different elements that can be judged?
Timing, technique, teamwork, musical interpretation, floorcraft (ie not hitting anyone), variety of moves, performance, lead-and-follow, enjoyment, style

Which are the most important of these elements, and which are the least important?
Some things I would expect - dancing in time, not getting in other couples' way, and abiding by the rules. I would expect more musical interpretation and variation in the timing in advanced divisions, rather than more moves. Style and performance wouldn't be as important as technique.

Is there anything that can't be judged that makes a person good to dance with?
Feel (of the connection), personal hygiene

Do you really care? (I'm not being flippant. If it is a 'fun' competition, and 'taking part is more important than winning', is the judging that important?)
Yes - if I was competing

But as I don't compete seriously, I don't really care who wins any competition. I just find it interesting to know what other people look for in deciding who is a good dancer.

David