UKEDC Competition Rules

An Update on Our Competition Rules

At the UKEDC, our mission is to support, encourage and grow equality dancing, and to work towards a climate in dancing where people can express themselves fully. As a community, we believe that everyone should be able to dance with whomever they like, and in whichever role they like.

Following the new guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) regarding their updated Code of Practice for Services, Public Functions and Associations, we have withdrawn our advisory competition rules for a thorough review. This updated Code incorporates the UK Supreme Court’s ruling in For Women Scotland Ltd v The Scottish Ministers, and we want to ensure that the advisory frameworks we offer competition organisers are fully aligned and up to date with these latest developments.

Our commitment to including trans and non-binary competitors remains as strong as ever. You are a vital part of our community. This pause simply allows us the time to review our guidance thoroughly so we can continue to champion a fair, safe, and supportive environment for everyone.

EEDA Showdance Rules

Click here to view the latest EEDA Showdance Rules.

New to competing?

Ever wondered about how to get started with same-sex competitions? Scroll down to view a handy guide which we’ve put together or click here to download the ‘Competing with the UKEDC Guide’ or click here to download the EEDA new starters guide.

The basics of competing

Ballroom and Latin Equality dance competitions will normally follow this structure:

First classification:

All couples will dance and be placed into the categories A, B, C, or D

Second classification:

A chance for the judges to review the categories, and make any changes as necessary

Competition rounds and semi-finals:

The couples will compete in their categories, with the judges selecting who will make it through to the next round

Finals:

Normally up to 6 couples will compete in the final of the Ballroom and Latin competitions

The dances required for each category are as follows, and usually danced in this order:

Ballroom:

A – Waltz, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot and Quickstep

B – Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot and Quickstep

C – Waltz, Tango and Quickstep

D – Waltz, Tango and Quickstep

Latin American:

A – Cha Cha Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble, Jive

B – Cha Cha Cha, Samba, Rumba, Jive

C – Cha Cha Cha, Rumba, Jive

D – Cha Cha Cha, Rumba, Jive

Usually, the All-Male couples with compete against each other in their own competition, and the All-Female couples will compete against each other in their own competition. But please note, on occasion the organisers may decide to combine the All-Male and All-Female couples into one competition if the total number of entrants is low. There may also be Open / Mixed categories where couples of any make up, irrelevant of gender may enter.