The following rules and regulations provide general guidelines for participation in all Grand Gala Events. Please note that these rules are generalized. For specific competition details, package information, and entry requirements, kindly refer to the most recent information updated on the official website and Instagram page.

1. Definitions and Interpretations

1.1. Student/Amateur (Am) – refers to a dance student who partners with either a Professional or a Teacher for their own enjoyment, participating in competitions or show performances, typically with fees paid to the organizers. The student cannot be a teacher at any dance school, must not have competed in any DanceSport category for the past 10 years, and must not have taught dance in the past 10 years. Additionally, they should never have been ranked among the top 100 dancers in the world in any dance federation.

1.2. Professional/Teacher (Pro) – refers to a dancer who is either active or inactive in any DanceSport Federation or a dance teacher who dances with their Student/Amateur (Am)

1.3. Couple – refers to a partnership between 2 dancers who dance together, typically performing coordinated routines that showcase their combined skills, technique, and artistry. The couples can be Pro/Am, Am/Am & Pro/Pro.

1.4. Professional – Amateur couples (Pro/Am) – refers to a dance partnership in which a professional dancer collaborates with an amateur dancer, guiding and performing alongside them in various dance performances or competitions. 

1.5. Amateur – Amateur couples (Am/Am) – refers to a couple consisting of two students who dance together. The students cannot be a teacher at any dance school and must not have competed in any DanceSport category for the past 10 years. Additionally, they should never have been ranked among the top 100 dancers in the world in any dance federation.

1.6. Professional – Professional couples (Pro/Pro) – refers to couples consisting of two professional dancers who partner together. These couples are typically highly experienced and skilled, often participating in competitive dance events and showcases. Their category is reserved for dancers who hold professional status and demonstrate advanced levels of technique, artistry, and performance.

2. General Rules

2.1. The Romanian Grand Gala competition is open to all couples in the world.

2.2. No responsibility for loss or theft of articles left in the changing rooms, performance, or seating areas, can be accepted by the Organizer, and neither can they be held liable for injury sustained by persons attending this event. Everyone attending does so at his or her own risk.

2.3. All persons attending this event, whether as spectators, competitors, officials, or guests of the organizers, shall be bound by these Rules and Policies, and by participating in this event automatically become obliged to adhere to them. Additionally, the organizers reserve the right to refuse admittance into the ballroom and/or entry into a competitive event.

2.4. Any couple who fails to appear at the scheduled time for the first round of any section will be disqualified from that section. Competitors must be present in the ballroom at least 30 minutes before their scheduled heat start time, as indicated in the Heat Lists. The organizers are not obligated to pause the competition if a couple misses their heat, and no refunds will be issued. Missed heats will not be rescheduled if it’s not feasible.

2.5. During qualification rounds (e.g., quarterfinals, semifinals), it is the participant’s responsibility to check whether they have advanced to the next round or not. The participants must also know the specific heat they will be competing in, which will be announced or displayed on the competition’s main screens, before leaving the ballroom. Organizers will not be held responsible if couples miss their heats or fail to review the provided information. If a couple fails to perform a dance in the final, they will be marked last for that dance.

2.6. In all Single Dance, Multi Dance & Scholarship Competitions, all gentlemen students will be judged separately from the lady students. In the International Pro-Am Open Championship Competitions all couples will be judged together.

2.7. Couples must also understand that judges are not required to provide feedback on their decisions, marks, or any competition-related matters. Judges have the discretion to adjudicate as they see fit at the time. 

2.8. Any violation of the rules may be reported to the organizers by any participant at these events and must be clearly proven. The person who violates the rules will be disqualified and placed in the last position in the ranking of the competition in which they participated.

2.9. Should any point arise that is not covered in these Rules and Policies or in these additional rules, it will be referred to the organizers, whose decision will be final.

3. Age Classification

3.1. All competitors are expected to conform to the following rules regarding age classification. 

3.2. Entry into the proper division is governed by the age of the amateur (Am) competitor on the date of the competition each year:

(a) The Minimum age requirement must be met in all divisions.

(b) The Maximum age requirement would be in effect through the last day of the dancer’s birth year. Example: The Amateur dancer in a Pro/Am B1 partnership (51 to 60) is eligible to remain in this classification until the day before their sixty-first (61) birthday.

3.3. Am/Am couples age group is determined by the older student and Pro/Pro couples age group is determined by the older professional.

3.4. Age Classifications are determined by the age of the amateur dancer. 

3.5. In Single Dances and Multi Dances competitions, couples may dance 3 age divisions. Their true age plus 2 ages below their true age, except the T1 who can enter 1 age over and the A1 who can not enter any additional age. For example: B2 (61-70) may also dance B1 (51-60) & A3 (41-50)

3.6. In Scholarship competitions, couples may dance 2 age divisions. Their true age plus 1 age below their true age, except the T who can enter 1 age over and the A who can not enter any additional age. 

3.7. In International Pro/Am Open Championship, participants must enter only their true age category.

3.8. Age classification in Single Dances & Multi Dances:

• Pro/Am; Am/Am; Pro/Pro T1 = <18
• Pro/Am; Am/Am; Pro/Pro A1 = 18 – 30
• Pro/Am; Am/Am; Pro/Pro A2 = 31 – 40
• Pro/Am; Am/Am; Pro/Pro A3 = 41 – 50
• Pro/Am; Am/Am; Pro/Pro B1 = 51 – 60
• Pro/Am; Am/Am; Pro/Pro B2 = 61 – 70
• Pro/Am; Am/Am; Pro/Pro C1 = 71 – 80
• Pro/Am; Am/Am; Pro/Pro C2 = 81 +

3.9. Age classification in Scholarship:

• Pro/Am; Am/Am; Pro/Pro T = <18
• Pro/Am; Am/Am; Pro/Pro A = 18 – 35
• Pro/Am; Am/Am; Pro/Pro B = 36 – 50
• Pro/Am; Am/Am; Pro/Pro C = 51 – 65
• Pro/Am; Am/Am; Pro/Pro S = 66+

3.10. Age classification in International Pro/Am Open Championships:

• Pro/Am <45
• Pro/Am >45

4. Level Classification

4.1. All competitors are expected to conform to the following rules regarding level classification. 

4.2. In Single Dances and Multi Dances competitions couples must enter at their true level of dance and only 3 levels higher.

4.3. In Scholarship competitions couples must enter at their true level of dance and only 1 level higher as follows: 

• Closed Bronze Scholarship participants can also enter Closed Silver Scholarship;
• Closed Silver Scholarship participants can also enter Open Gold Scholarship;
• Open Gold Scholarship participants can also enter Open Gold Star Scholarship;

4.4. Couples may enter in completely different dance levels in the American Style between Smooth and Rhythm and in the International Style between Standard and Latin or other dance styles.

4.5. In the Pro-Am Competitions the Newcomers division is for beginning students with 50 hours or less of private lessons. Additionally, Newcomers are restricted to steps 1-5 of the Bronze syllabus.

4.6. Level classification in Single Dances & Multi Dances:

• Newcomer (Closed)
• Pre-Bronze (Closed)
• Intermediate Bronze (Closed)
• Full Bronze (Closed)
• Open Bronze
• Pre-Silver (Closed)
• Intermediate Silver (Closed)
• Full Silver (Closed)
• Open Silver 
• Pre-Gold (Closed)
• Intermediate Gold (Closed)
• Full Gold (Closed)
• Open Gold 
• Open Gold Star (Pro/Pro couples are allowed)

4.7. Level Classification in Scholarship:

• Closed Bronze
• Closed Silver
• Open Gold
• Open Gold Star (Pro/Pro couples are allowed)

4.8. In International Pro/Am Open Championships all couples compete against each other, regardless of their skill level.

5. Scholarship Rules

5.1. To qualify for all scholarship events, a student must enter a minimum of:

• 4 Smooth Pro/Am single dances (Walz + Tango + Foxtrot + Viennese Waltz) 
• 5 Rhythm Pro/Am single dances (Cha cha + Rumba + Swing + Bolero + Mambo)
• 5 Ballroom Pro/Am single dances (Walz + Tango + Viennese Waltz + Slow Fox + Quickstep) 
• 5 Latin Pro/Am single dances (Samba + Cha cha + Rumba + Paso Doble + Jive)
• 3 Argentine tango (Salon & Freestyle) Pro/Am single dances (Tango + Tango Vals + Milonga)
• 3 Caribbean mix Pro/Am single dances (Salsa + Merengue + Bachata)
• 3 Night club Pro/Am single dances (Hustle + West Coast Swing+ East Coast Swing)

per scholarship event entered.

5.2. When entering a Multi Dance Event each individual dance will count as a single dance entry (i.e. an entry into the 5 Dance Challenge Championship American Rhythm Competition (C/R/SW/B/MA) would count as 5 single dances). 

5.3. Closed scholarships are restricted to Bronze & Silver students. Please remember that the closed scholarships are restricted to closed syllabus figures (Bronze restricted to Bronze Syllabus and Silver restricted to Bronze & Silver Syllabus). 

5.4. Open scholarships are not restricted to any figures. 

5.5. In any scholarship event with fewer than three entries, the organizer reserves the right to eliminate the age and merge competitors into one division.

5.6. The Open Gold Star Scholarship participants can not enter a lower category level, but they can enter two age categories (a student’s true age category and one age category lower, except the T who can enter 1 age over and the A who can not enter any additional age).

5.7. Students MUST enter the scholarship level corresponding to the level of the majority of single dances and a stronger level.

6. International Pro/Am Open Championship

6.1. In International Pro-Am Open Championships only Pro/Am couples are allowed to participate.

6.2. To qualify for the International Pro/Am Open Championship couples must enter at least 1 Scholarship competition.

6.3. International Pro/Am Open Championshop is not restricted to any figures.

6.4. In this competition the National Anthem of the winning couple’s country will be played as they stand on the podium, raising the special trophy.

6.5. In the International Pro/Am Open Championship, the finalist couples will perform a dance presentation of their choice.

7. Tickets

7.1. We offer two types of tickets: “Entrance Tickets” and “Gala Dinner Tickets.” These tickets are distinct from one another.

7.2. The Entrance Ticket grants access to the entire day’s events, allowing you to enjoy all sections of the competition, and the Gala Dinner Ticket provides access exclusively to the gala dinner event, which includes a seat at the table along with food and beverage services (which may vary by event). 

7.3. All participants, including spectators, professionals and students, are required to purchase an entrance ticket for access to the ballroom except for package holders. Packages already include these tickets. 

7.4. Each Entrance Ticket includes a seat at the table and food/beverage services (which may vary by event). 

7.5. Without an Entrance Ticket, couples will not be allowed to participate in the competition.

7.6. It is important to understand that the entry form and Entrance Ticket are separate; registering and paying the entry fees does not include an Entrance Ticket.

8. Registration

8.1. To register for Grand Gala Events, simply visit our website at www.grandgalaevents.com, choose the event you wish to join and click “Registration”.

8.2. After completing the online registration form, you should receive a confirmation email with details including payment information, the amount due, and a summary of your dance entries. If you don’t see this email, please check your spam folder; if it’s not there, your registration may not have been successful, so please try again. If the problem persists, please contact us at contact@grandgalaevents.com.

8.3. If you aren’t purchasing a package, you must manually select entrance tickets for all participants. If you overlook this step, the organizer will add the tickets to your outstanding balance.

8.4. If you encounter any technical issues while registering online, you can send your completed entry form via email to contact@grandgalaevents.com. 

8.5. Regardless of how you register, the organizer’s team will review all submissions.

8.6. After the registration deadline, no changes to entries will be allowed, meaning you cannot alter your dance category, age group, or style.

8.7. Late entries will be approved on a space available basis and a late fee of 100 euro per person shall apply.

8.8. Please note that the participant list will not be published online. Once registration is complete and the event schedule is finalized, heatlists will be available on our website and social media channels.

9. Packages

9.1. For the convenience of all dancers, we offer comprehensive package services at all our events. While purchasing a package is not mandatory, it is highly recommended as it adds significant convenience and enhances your overall experience during your stay with us. Packages are designed to provide a seamless experience, allowing you to focus entirely on your performance and enjoyment of the event. 

9.2. Each package typically includes a range of services to ensure your comfort and convenience. This includes accommodation in select room categories at the venue hotel for a specified number of nights, ensuring you are close to all the action. Transfers between the designated airport and the venue hotel are also included, as well as entrance tickets granting access to all the day’s events in the ballroom. Additionally, packages feature tickets to the Welcome Drink and Gala Dinner, where you can enjoy socializing with other participants and attendees. Personalized heat lists are sent to you via email or WhatsApp before the event, along with other special services that may vary depending on the specific event.

9.3. If you require additional nights at the venue hotel beyond what is included in your package, we can manually add these to your booking upon request, subject to availability. This flexibility allows you to tailor your stay according to your travel plans and preferences. We strive to accommodate your needs to make your experience as comfortable as possible.

9.4. For the latest information regarding packages, including detailed descriptions, pricing, inclusions, and availability, please visit the official website at “grandgalaevents.com.” We regularly update this information to ensure that you have access to the most accurate and up-to-date details. Staying informed will help you select the package that best suits your needs and ensures a smooth experience.

9.5. Depending on availability, we offer the option to upgrade your package to include enhanced services, so please reach out to our team. We are committed to providing a personalized experience and will do our best to accommodate your requirements.

9.6. By purchasing a package, you agree to the terms and conditions associated with it. It is essential that you carefully review all package details, including what is included and any limitations. This acknowledgment ensures that you are fully aware of the services provided and the responsibilities involved, helping to avoid any misunderstandings during your stay.

10. Transfers

10.1. If your package includes transfers, it is essential that you carefully read and acknowledge all the information provided in this section. By doing so, you ensure that you fully understand the conditions, limitations, and procedures related to your transfer arrangements. This will help prevent any misunderstandings or issues on the day of your travel. Your acknowledgment confirms that you agree to abide by these guidelines and are aware of the responsibilities involved.

10.2. Please note that transfers will be scheduled based on the flight information you provide. It is crucial that you ensure your flight details are accurate and complete when submitting them. 

10.3. Any changes to your flight schedule must be communicated immediately via email to avoid any disruptions to your transfer arrangements. The organizers will do their best to accommodate last-minute changes, but this cannot be guaranteed.

10.4. Transfers are coordinated to coincide with the event schedule. We will provide transfers only for participants arriving up to two days before the event and departing within two days after the event concludes. 

10.5. If you choose to arrive earlier or leave later, transfers will not be provided, and refunds will not be possible. 

10.6. Upon arrival at the designated airport, you will be met by a representative who will assist you with your transfer to the venue hotel. 

10.7. For departures, please ensure that you are ready in the hotel lobby at the time provided to you, as delays could affect the entire group and result in missed transfers. We recommend being punctual to ensure a smooth experience for everyone.

10.8. If you require a transfer outside of the designated times or locations, such as a different hotel or a private residence, you will need to arrange your transportation independently. The organizers are not responsible for any costs or logistics related to alternative transfer arrangements, and these will not be covered or refunded as part of the package.

10.9. If you have any special requirements, such as wheelchair accessibility or assistance with large amounts of luggage, please inform the organizers when submitting your flight details. We will do our best to accommodate these requests, but please note that special arrangements may require additional time or resources, which should be communicated well in advance.

10.10. We strongly recommend that all participants purchase travel insurance that covers potential issues such as missed flights, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. The competition organizers are not liable for any disruptions to your travel plans that are beyond our control, including those that may affect your transfer arrangements.

10.11.In case of any emergencies or last-minute changes on the day of your travel, please have the contact details of the event’s transfer coordinator on hand. This will ensure that any issues can be addressed as quickly as possible, minimizing any inconvenience.

11. Payments

11.1. All packages and dance entries must be paid in full by the end of the registration period. It is important to note that no entries will be accepted without complete payment. To secure your participation, payment should be made via credit card or bank transfer to the company account specified after you complete the registration process. 

11.2. Timely payment ensures your entry is confirmed and prevents any issues with your registration.

11.3. The amounts due are based on the date your payment is received. 

11.4. If payment is not completed by the specified date, the prices will automatically increase. Therefore, it is essential that your payment matches the amounts due as indicated in the registration confirmation, based on the payment dates. 

11.5. To take advantage of early bird pricing, both your registration and payment must be completed within the designated early bird period.

11.6. In certain cases, an agreement may be made to pay in cash upon arrival due to technical issues. However, please be aware that if you do not show up, full payment is still required. In such cases, payment must be made by bank transfer no later than five days after the competition begins. Failure to meet this obligation will result in the couple being barred from registering for future Grand Gala events until the outstanding balance is fully settled. Failure to complete payment as required will not only impact your participation in the current event but may also affect your ability to participate in future events. If any outstanding balances are not resolved within the specified timeframe, you will be excluded from registering for future Grand Gala events until all debts are cleared. 

11.7. It is crucial to adhere to the payment guidelines to avoid any disruptions to your competition experience.

12. Cancellation and Refund Policy

12.1. All cancellations of entries must be submitted in writing to the organizers at contact@grandgalaevents.com. Please note that cancellations via phone will not be accepted. This policy ensures clear communication and proper documentation of all cancellations.

12.2. Cancellation Timeline and Refunds

• 0 to 30 Days Prior to Arrival: If a cancellation is made within 30 days of your scheduled arrival, no refunds will be issued. This policy is in place due to the proximity of the event and the commitments made based on your participation.
• 31 to 90 Days Prior to Arrival: For cancellations made between 31 and 90 days before arrival, 30% of the total amount paid will be refunded. This partial refund acknowledges the preparations already undertaken for your participation.
• 91 to 180 Days Prior to Arrival: Cancellations occurring between 91 and 180 days before arrival will be eligible for a 50% refund. This refund reflects the advanced notice provided, allowing some flexibility in event planning.
• 181 to 365 Days Prior to Arrival: If you cancel between 181 and 365 days before your arrival, 90% of the amount paid will be refunded. This high refund rate is due to the considerable notice provided, which helps minimize disruption to event arrangements.

12.3. Refund Processing

Refunds will be processed approximately 30 days following the event. This timeframe allows the organizers to manage all financial aspects of the event and ensure accurate refund processing. Please be aware that all refunds are subject to the terms outlined in this policy, and the specific refund amount will depend on when your cancellation is received.

13. Adjudicators

13.1. Adjudicators are required to maintain complete impartiality throughout the competition. They cannot influence, coach, or provide feedback to the couples during the event. Furthermore, adjudicators are strictly forbidden from discussing couples or their performances with each other. This rule is in place to ensure that each judge’s assessment is independent and unbiased. 

13.2. Couples are also prohibited from approaching adjudicators for opinions or comments on their performance or the marks they receive. The decisions made by the adjudicators are final and not subject to appeal.
At any time, there should be a minimum of five judges on the dance floor for any given category. This ensures a diverse range of perspectives and a balanced evaluation of each performance.

13.3. Judges are required to stand on the dance floor while judging, with the exception of single dance and multi dance events, where designated seating may be provided.

13.4. This positioning allows them to have a clear and unobstructed view of the performances, ensuring accurate assessments.
Adjudicators are expected to adhere to a strict dress code that reflects the formality and prestige of the event. 

13.5. During the daytime portion of the competition, adjudicators must wear business attire (men in suits with ties, and women in cocktail or long dresses). 

13.6. For the evening events, the dress code becomes more formal, with men required to wear tuxedos and women in long evening dresses. 

13.7. This dress code not only upholds the event’s standards but also contributes to the overall atmosphere of elegance and professionalism.
Adjudicators must be present in the ballroom at least 30 minutes before their assigned judging time. This ensures that the event runs smoothly and on schedule. 

13.8. If an adjudicator is late or misses their assigned heats, the organizer reserves the right to adjust the adjudicator’s compensation accordingly. 

13.9. In the event of an absence, the Chairman of the Adjudicators may appoint a substitute judge or step in personally to ensure that the competition continues without disruption.

13.10. During their working hours, adjudicators are not allowed to use mobile phones, record videos, or take photographs of the couples. This policy is in place to prevent distractions and maintain the focus and professionalism of the adjudicators while they are performing their duties. The use of electronic devices during judging can lead to conflicts of interest and compromise the fairness of the competition.

14. Chairman of the Adjudicators

14.1. The Chairman (or Chairwoman) of the Adjudicators holds a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation and integrity of the competition. 

14.2. One of their primary responsibilities is to inform all adjudicators of their judging schedules prior to the competition’s start. This communication is done in writing, typically via email, to ensure that all adjudicators are aware of their responsibilities and can prepare accordingly.

14.3. The Chairman is responsible for maintaining the competition schedule, ensuring that the event runs on time and according to plan. The competition heats must adhere strictly to the published schedule, with no heat starting earlier or later than 30 minutes from the times listed. This ensures that participants, adjudicators, and the audience can plan their day accurately and reduces the potential for confusion or delays.

14.4. During the competition, the Chairman has the authority to make key decisions that impact the flow of the event. This includes determining how many couples can be on the dance floor at any given time and deciding how many couples will advance to the next round. In cases where multiple couples receive the same number of marks, the Chairman is the only person who can decide whether more or fewer couples should qualify for the subsequent rounds. This decision-making power is crucial for maintaining fairness and consistency throughout the competition.

14.5. The Chairman also plays an essential role in overseeing the work of the scrutinizing team, which is responsible for tallying the marks and ensuring that the results are accurate. 

14.6. Additionally, the Chairman must monitor the length of the music played during the competition, ensuring it aligns with the event’s standards and does not favor any particular couple.

14.7. Overall, the Chairman’s role is to uphold the integrity and fairness of the competition.

14.8. By managing schedules, making crucial decisions on the spot, and overseeing the adjudication process, the Chairman ensures that the event runs smoothly and that all participants are judged according to the highest standards.

15. Scrutineers

15.1. Scrutineers are required to utilize professional software for all Grand Gala Events competitions. This technology ensures accurate and efficient management of scoring and results. The use of such specialized programs is critical for maintaining the integrity and precision of the adjudication process.

15.2. The primary responsibility of the Scrutineer team is to create and distribute adjudicator marking documents or manage mobile devices used for recording scores. The team is also responsible for counting marks and determining placements. Once the marks and placements are finalized, they must be delivered to the Chairman and the event host. This ensures that the results are communicated efficiently and accurately.

15.3. Scrutineers must adhere to strict confidentiality protocols. They are not permitted to disclose any competition results to participants until the event has concluded. This policy maintains the fairness of the competition and prevents any undue advantage or disadvantage based on preliminary results.

15.4. After the competition ends, the Scrutineer team is required to provide an electronic version of all results and marks. This report must be delivered no later than five working days after the conclusion of the event. Timely submission of these results is essential for maintaining transparency and ensuring that all participants receive accurate feedback in a timely manner.

15.5. The Scrutineer team plays a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the competition results. By using professional software, adhering to confidentiality rules, and providing timely results, Scrutineers help uphold the standards and fairness of the event.