ROUND 1
SOLO + CLASS AUDITION
Each dancer will begin by performing a solo in the Artist of the Year Solo Competition, in any style of their choice. This solo will count for 50% of their Round 1 score.
Dancers will then participate in a Jazz & Ballet audition class, where they'll be evaluated on versatility, technique, and overall performance quality. This class audition score will make up the remaining 50% of the Round 1 score.
Solo and Class scores are then combined to determine the Top 10 dancers in each division who will advance to Round 2.
ROUND 2
AOTY DANCE-OFF: Improvisation
This is where the Dance-Off begins. An elevated, high-energy improvisational round performed live in a one-of-a-kind setting, featuring special elements and surprises designed to push each artist beyond the expected.
No choreography. No second chances. Just instinct, artistry and adrenaline.
The improv scores are combined with each dancer's previous Solo and Class Audition scores to determine the Top 3 who will advance to Round 3.
But wait… plot twist… we're introducing a Wild Card.
If the highest-scoring dancer from the Improv Round doesn't land in the Top 3 overall, they won't be left behind. Instead, they'll be added as a Wild Card finalist—expanding the group to a Top 4 and earning their spot in The Final Cut.
Because when the moment calls… real artists rise.
(Please note: For added suspense—and to keep everyone pushing their limits—we'll keep the identity of the Wild Card Finalist under wraps.)
ROUND 3
AOTY DANCE-OFF: Solo Performance
To conclude the Dance-Off, the Top 3 (or 4) dancers will perform their Artist of the Year solo once again, offering a final chance to leave a lasting impression. A panel of judges will evaluate and rank the dancers based on their solo performances.
AOTY Winners are determined by combining each dancer's Class Audition score, Dance-Off Improvisation score and Dance-Off Solo Performance score into a final ranking.