Dance Competition Judging
Available across Mumbai
I judge Indian classical and folk dance competitions by focusing on effort, creativity, and emotion, and I give detailed feedback to help dancers improve instead of just giving scores.
Pricing Guide
Half-Day Standard Judging
Event Scope
- Duration: Up to 4 hours of on-site judging duty.
- Capacity: Assessment of up to 30 acts (Solo, Duet, or small Groups).
- Categories: Covers Classical (Kathak, Bharatnatyam), Semi-Classical, and Folk dance genres.
Evaluation Process
- Scoring: Evaluation based on technical parameters: Taal (Rhythm), Laya (Tempo), Bhaav (Expression), and Presentation.
- Results: Tabulation of scores and final decision for top 3 positions.
- Handover: Delivery of signed score sheets to the organizer or emcee.
Audience Engagement
- Closing Speech: A brief 5-10 minute address motivating participants on Riaz (practice) and stage confidence.
- Ceremony: Presence on stage to hand over trophies and certificates to winners.
Professional Standards
- Attire: Formal Indian wear (Saree) to maintain classical artist decorum.
- Conduct: Unbiased observation of every participant regardless of skill level.
Full-Day Adjudication & Live Demo
Extended Event Scope
- Duration: Full-day engagement (Up to 8 hours), suitable for Prelims and Finals.
- Capacity: Judging of extensive lineups (40+ acts) across multiple categories.
- Event Type: Ideal for University Fests, District-level competitions, or Corporate cultural days.
Artist Demonstration
- Live Performance: A 10-15 minute interactive session or "Lecture-Demonstration" performing technical pieces like Chakkars or Padhant.
- Requirement: Requires stage audio for recitation and clear space for movement.
Expert Critique
- Live Feedback: Immediate on-mic verbal critique provided after select performances.
- Technical Analysis: Specific feedback on Lucknow Gharana nuances for classical entries and cultural authenticity for folk acts.
- Q&A: Brief interaction with participants regarding technique and creativity.
Logistics
- Briefing: Availability for pre-event briefing regarding rules and judgment criteria.
- Travel: Includes local travel costs within city limits.
About Dance Competition Judging
Why Judging Matters to Me
Judging a dance competition is a big deal for me. It’s not just about picking winners - it’s about respecting every dancer’s effort. Watching young dancers pour their heart out on stage, I feel lucky to be part of their journey.
How I Judge
I don’t just look at perfect steps or technique. What grabs me is the soul of the performance. Here’s what I focus on:
- Dedication and effort - hard work always stands out
- Creativity and uniqueness - I love seeing dancers try something new
- Bhaav (emotion) - connecting with the audience is everything
- Dance competition feedback that actually helps - I try to give honest, constructive critique for dancers, not just scores
Sometimes, I even share a bit of my own art with the students, just to encourage them and keep the vibe positive.
My Roots
My dance comes from my gurus, Padma Vibhushan Pandit Birju Maharaj ji and Saswati Senji. Whatever I know is thanks to their guru kripa (blessings). As a Doordarshan Graded Artist and part of Kalashram, I stick to the Lucknow Gharana traditions.
Where I’ve Judged
I’ve judged at school and college dance contests in Delhi and Mumbai - places like SRCC, Shaheed Rajguru College, Apeejay School, Bal Bharti, and more.
What I Judge
I focus on Indian classical dance adjudication (Kathak, Bharatanatyam, etc.) and Indian folk styles. I’m comfortable with solo and duet dance judging formats.
Meet your Expert
Garvita Sharma
60 connects in last 3 months
My Story
Kathak for me? It’s everything. I learnt under Maharaj ji and Saswati Didi at Kalashram - that place is like my second home. Sometimes I’m in Delhi, sometimes Mumbai, always dancing. Once dreamt of studying at SRCC, but life had other plans - ended up judging a dance show there years later! My Gurus’ blessings, lots of riyaaz (practice), and the stage - that’s my real story. Tasmai Shri Gurave Namah.
My Work
What I offer - Solo and group Kathak performances, choreography, regular and special Kathak classes, and I judge dance competitions.
My Kathak roots - I belong to the Lucknow Gharana - all my training is under Maharaj ji and Saswati Didi, and I teach the same way.
How I teach - All sincere learners welcome, from total newbies to advanced. I focus on both Nritta (technique) and Nritya (expression).
Performances & choreography - I’ve performed and choreographed productions like 'Ramasmaran' across India. Connecting with art lovers matters the most.
