Frequently Asked Questions

If you have a question about applying, please check the below to see if we have already answered it. Otherwise contact Sarah Kearney by email at [javascript protected email address] or by telephone on 01273 696844. Ask for Sarah and say that it’s a query about U.Dance. 

Headington Dance Company, MaKe U.Dance 2020. Photo Paul Astley

QU: What if some dancers in my group are younger or older than the eligible age range?
A: You will not be eligible for selection for the U.Dance National Festival. However, the regional panel may consider your application for the Regional Platform – this will be at the panel’s discretion. In the online application form please include the following details as part of question 29: The number of dancers outside the eligible age range and provide their ages. 
For question 32 please select ‘No’ when asked if you would like to be considered as part of the selection for U.Dance National Festival 2021. 

QU: Can I submit a work-in-progress or an incomplete piece?
A: Due to the selection process and timeframe only completed films will be accepted. The video MP4 file you submit will be the film uploaded to be shown as part of the digital platform. Any incomplete pieces or work-in-progress submissions will not be considered by the regional panel. 

QU: Is there anywhere I can get advice about filming my dance piece?
A: Yes – In December One Dance UK hosted Film Upskilling Workshops for anyone thinking of applying to U.Dance 2021. There was a workshop for those applying through the U.Dance on Screen route and a separate workshop for the U.Dance on Stage route. Links to the recordings of these workshop webinars are now available.

QU: Can I film my piece on my phone or other home device?
A: Yes. More details are available in the One Dance UK Film Upskilling Workshops

QU: Can I record my group on Zoom / other group online platform?
A: Yes - you would apply through the U.Dance on Screen option. Feel free to be creative with how you use and edit the dance film using your online platform of choice.

QU: Can groups, schools and soloists apply with more than one piece?
A: You can submit more than one piece. In this instance you must complete a separate application form for each piece. When submitting each video file of each piece please clearly label every video file with the title of the piece. 
However, you might want to consider choosing the piece that you feel has the best chance of being selected and work for a really strong application with that one piece.

QU: What are the guidelines about appropriate content?
Your dance piece must be appropriate for a family audience of all ages.
Content: Only include age appropriate movements, themes and issues for your group. Please consider how the piece will come across to your audience.
Costumes: No revealing costumes, no costumes with a nude effect, no costumes that sexualise young people. Please ensure midriffs are covered and all costumes are age appropriate for the dancers. 
Music: No swearing, no violent language and no explicit content.
Check out the U.Dance Good Practise Film produced by our friends at Dance4

QU: Can I submit my dance film as a URL link to Vimeo or YouTube?
A: No – we can only accept MP4 files. We will be in contact within ten working days of receipt of your application form to let you know how to submit your MP4 file to our Dropbox account.

QU: Do you have any advice about health and safety?
A: For U.Dance Digital 2020, One Dance UK produced helpful guides to taking part safely. There are lots of useful points in there that also apply to groups and soloists. Have a look at the Practical Dance Sessions information on the Taking Part Safely page

QU: Where can I find out information about last year’s U.Dance National Festival? 
A: Last year’s National Festival unfortunately was not able to take place live. Instead the festival was hosted online as U.Dance Digital 2020. Take a look at the U.Dance Digital 2020 highlights

QU: Who can I contact at South East Dance if I have questions about my U.Dance application?
A: Sarah Kearney by email at: sarah.kearney@southeastdance.org.uk or by telephone on: 01273 696844 ask for Sarah and say that it’s a query about U.Dance. 

#UDance2021

U.Dance Digital South East Regional Platform 2021 is a partnership event between South East Dance and One Dance UK. Generously supported by Arts Council England. South East Dance is proud to be an Arts Award Supporter and Artsmark Partner.