Competitor Info & Apply

• You are permitted to use grip on yourself but may not apply any grip to the pole. Stickum spray is NOT permitted
• The poles will be cleaned between each performance using Isopropyl alcohol and a towel. If you wish to check the pole/clean your own pole you are welcome to provided that your cleaning products are approved on the day.

The Midlands Pole Championships is open to men and women over the age of 16 years old. You do not have to be a resident in the Midlands to enter the competition

The competition consists of 2 parts and 7 categories. The categories are as follows:

• Performer (Amateur)
• Performer (Experienced)
• Intermediate
• Advanced
• Masters 40+
• Semi Professional
• Doubles

There will be x2 45mm fixed X-Poles that are 3.2m high and approx 2.6m gap between them. From the audiences perspective the left pole will be spinning and the right static.

All entrants are required to apply via video entry. Your video can be of a previous competition entry or a studio showcase/performance but must still reflect an accurate representation of your current level. Entries must be sent in NO LATER than 23.59 on the 29th June 2024

Late entries will not be accepted. Videos will be judged between the 6th July - 31st Aug. Finalists will be announced on the 7th Sep 2024. 5 competitors from Performance (Amateur), Performance (Experienced), Intermediate, Advanced, Masters and Semi-Pro and 5 pairs in doubles will be invited to compete in the LIVE FINALS ON 2nd November 2024 at The Squire Performing Arts Centre, Nottingham, NG1 4JB

To enter the video entry round please send your application form with your application fee of £30 (£45 for doubles) and a link to your routine on YouTube or Vimeo. Please ensure these are sent together.

Please ensure that you are available on the 2nd November 2024 before you enter the competition as this is the date of the finals. Refunds will not be given if you can not attend.

Application fees can be paid via paypal or BACS transfer.

You may choose to use the same routine/song in the finals as your video entry.

Videos must be taken in one shot with no zooming/moving of the camera. Please ensure that you are in the shot at all times. The video must be filmed front on and you may use up to 2 poles- one static, one spinning. Sound must not be overlayed on the video. Any content 10 secs over the time allowance in your chosen category will not be counted.

There is no minimum length required for the video entry round, however, we strongly recommend using as much of the allotted time as possible to showcase what you can do.

If your video is found to be unsuitable and has been submitted before the deadline then we will give you an opportunity to re-submit. After the deadline however if the video is unsuitable then you will be disqualified.

The judging criteria and rules are below.

The competition is being held on the 2nd November from 1pm. Competitors will need to be there at least one hour in advance.

The venue is:

Squire Performing Arts Centre, 9 Arboretum Street,
Nottingham, NG1 4JB

At the venue there will be an x-stage practice pole for competitors only, to warm up and stretch. We have 2 big well lit dressing rooms with plenty of mirrors for our competitors to get changed in as well as ample space for warming up and stretching. The stage area is 8 x 7.1m of useable space and is at least 1m off the ground. The judging table will be directly in front of the stage and the audience seated behind them. There are 2 sets of steps up to the stage either side but also access to the stage from both wings.

Our new venue is still in Nottingham City Centre with ample free on site parking and easy access via the tram network.

• For the Performer categories, both Amateur and Experienced we will accept any entrants that perform a routine within the limitations of this category i.e. you must not perform moves where the hips are higher than head (with exceptions: see full rules). This category is open to anyone wishing to perform a routine that is based around dance and choreography which uses the pole, this is not a tricks based category.
• Performer Categories judging criteria will be:

50% Composition

50% Presentation

• The entry fee is £30 per person (£45 per doubles entry). The entry Fee is non-refundable including for any medical reasons. Entrants will not need to pay anything further if they get through to the finals of the competition.
• On the day of the finals you will be required to sign a liability waiver and fill out a health questionnaire. Anyone who does not sign this will not be able to compete.
• All competitors participate at their own risk. You should not perform moves or compete at a level that you are not comfortable with.
• The organisers are not liable for any loss, damage or injury during the competition.

You can find out more about our judges.

You must use both spinning and static poles in your routine.

We expect your routine to be well-rounded that takes into consideration strength, flexibility, fluidity and dance.

Technical 40%

• Routine
• Range of tricks
• Difficulty of tricks and how well they are controlled (except in Performer Categories)
• Transitions- new/original transitions, how well do they flow
• Control of spins
• Spin combos
• Have moves been held for long enough
• Good spin momentum
• Are moves extended properly
• Variety of strength tricks- core/upper body combos and tricks
• Variety of flexibility moves - upper body and back as well as legs

Composition 30%

• Musicality, how well does the routine fit the music
• Interpretation of the music
• Timing of tricks, spins and floorwork- is it too rushed/too slow
• Flow of the routine
• Originality of the routine/choreography
• Is it a well rounded routine incorporating spins, dance, floorwork, flexibility and tricks and do they flow from one to the other
• Do they use a variety of different tricks and spins such as elbow holds, knee holds, thigh holds etc
• Use of props

Presentation 30%

• Pointed toes, good lines
• Are they interacting with the audience and judges
• Do they have a stage presence
• Do they stand out from the other competitors
• Is emotion conveyed through the routine
• Is the routine strong and graceful
• Theme and story
• Is the overall routine neat
• Good use of stage
• Correct body alignment for moves
• Good entering/exit of tricks and spins
• Confidence

Appeals

You will receive feedback on both your video entry and your finals routine, however judges' decision is final. You may request clarification on feedback or further feedback after the competition, however it will be at the judge's discretion as to the information they can provide.

• Routines must be no longer than 3 minutes long and songs must contain no swearing. Your song must be sent to the competition organisers no later than 2 weeks prior to the competition as an mp3 file via email info@midlandspolechampionships.co.uk
• As a competitor in the Performer (Amateur) Category we will be looking for a routine that contains moves suitable for a performance. You can enter this category if you have a year or less pole experience and have not placed (at the time of entering) 1st or 2nd in any other UK pole competition.
• The emphasis on this category will be on dance/floor work, spins and musicality.
• You can not invert in this category.
• For holds and transitions you must have 3 grip points on the pole at all times (this does not include spins)
• You must not perform moves that have your hips higher than your head whilst you are on the pole, Cross knee release or similar is not permitted. Headstand/Handstands/Forearm stands against the pole or as part of floor work are permitted.
• You must perform a well-rounded routine that takes into consideration strength, flexibility, fluidity and dance.

• Routines must be no longer than 3 minutes long and songs must contain no swearing. Your song must be sent to the competition organisers no later than 2 weeks prior to the competition as an mp3 file via email info@midlandspolechampionships.co.uk
• As a competitor in the Performer (Experienced) Category we will be looking for a routine that contains moves suitable for a performance. You can enter this category if you have competed in any other UK based competition. We want to see how creative those with more pole experience can be, can you create an engaging routine that doesn't have all the latest tricks?
• You can enter this category if you have placed 1st or 2nd in any UK based competition.
• The emphasis on this category will be on dance/floor work, spins and musicality.
• You can not invert in this category.
• For holds and transitions you must have 3 grip points on the pole at all times (this does not include spins)
• You must not perform moves that have your hips higher than your head whilst you are on the pole, Cross knee release or similar is not permitted. Headstand/Handstands/Forearm stands against the pole or as part of floor work are permitted.
• You must perform a well-rounded routine that takes into consideration strength, flexibility, fluidity and dance.

• Routines must be no longer than 3.5 minutes long and songs must contain no swearing. Your song must be sent to the competition organisers no later than 2 weeks prior to the competition as an mp3 file via email info@midlandspolechampionships.co.uk
• No knee holds allowed single (where one knee is used to support your body without the use of hands e.g. in Marley, cupid, hummingbird without hands etc) or double (for example knee hold).
• Allowed Moves are PDC Level 1-4 with the exception of: Cupid Flatline, Hummingbird, Marley, Q, Rocket Man, Shoulder (Dis)mount Passe, Turtle Dove and Western Flag Invert
• Other allowed moves include: Crescent Moon, Jade (inc. variations), Leg hang variations (excluding Cocoon/Contortion Scorpio), Open Allegra, Remi Layback, Shouldermount/dismount, Tumbles (such as Holly Drop) Western Flag
• Disallowed moves include: Any flips or drops (where you are dropping the full length of the pole), Aerial Shouldermount, Ayesha, Brass Monkey (except as a transitional move/position), Chopstix, Handspring (any grip)
• No advanced moves allowed. If you are not sure whether your move is considered to not be allowed in your level, please contact us. We will update this list with moves we have been asked about so please keep checking back if you are entering this category
• You must not have placed first in a UK National Competition in Intermediate level.
• You must perform a well-rounded routine that takes into consideration strength, flexibility, fluidity and dance.

• Routines must be no longer than 4 minutes long and songs must contain no swearing. Your song must be sent to the competition organisers no later than 2 weeks prior to the competition as an mp3 file via email info@midlandspolechampionships.co.uk
• Allowed moves are PDC Levels 1-5 and also include: Aerial Shouldermount, Allegra, Ayesha (all grips), BOP, Broken Doll, Butterfly Flip, Chopstix, Cocoon, Cupid, Eagle, Handsprings (all grips), Iron X, Jallegra, Janeiro, Knee Holds, Shouldermount Flip, Straight Edge
• Disallowed moves include: Flips (except for Shouldermount flip and Butterfly flip), Fonji, Grip switches, Handspring deadlifts/aerial handsprings, Human Flag, Muscle Up, Octopus, Rainbow Marchenko, Spatchcock, Starfish
• No extreme strength or contortion moves allowed. If you are not sure whether your move is considered to not be allowed in your level, please contact us. We will update this list with moves we have been asked about so please keep checking back if you are entering this category.
• You must not be an Instructor to compete in this category.
• You must perform a well-rounded routine that takes into consideration strength, flexibility, fluidity and dance.

• Routines must be no longer than 4 minutes long and songs must contain no swearing. Your song must be sent to the competition organisers no later than 2 weeks prior to the competition as an mp3 file via email info@midlandspolechampionships.co.uk
• This category is for any solo amateur poler aged 40 and above at the time of the live finals
• You can not be a paid professional pole dancer or Instructor in this category
• No holds barred; all moves are allowed at this level
• You must perform a well-rounded routine that takes into consideration strength, flexibility and fluidity.

• Routines must be no longer than 4.5 minutes long and songs must contain no swearing. Your song must be sent to the competition organisers no later than 2 weeks prior to the competition as an mp3 file via email info@midlandspolechampionships.co.uk
• No holds barred; all moves are allowed at this level
• You must not have placed first in a National Competition (Pole Theatre/Pole Art/MPDUK) at semi-pro level or above to enter. Junior level winners are permitted.
• You must perform a well-rounded routine that takes into consideration strength, flexibility and fluidity.
• You can be a paid instructor to enter this category.
• You can be an amateur, ie not paid to perform, or an instructor, but you must not have been paid to perform, teach workshops or actively work with a large social media presence as a brand ambassador to take part in this category

• Routines must be no longer than 5 minutes long and songs must contain no swearing. Your song must be sent to the competition organisers no later than 2 weeks prior to the competition as an mp3 file via email info@midlandspolechampionships.co.uk
• You must have at least 30 seconds of continuous synchronised dance/tricks during your routine.
• You can be an instructor or student to compete in this category.
• Your routine must include doubles tricks, choreography and performance.
• No holds barred. You can have placed first in a National competition.

• Your routine starts from the moment you start moving/the music starts whichever first. Any performance that run over the time limit for your category will not be counted, judging will stop at the time limit.
• You must only perform tricks that you are capable of doing and are within your entry level. Moves that are not permitted will not be scored and you may be deducted points for flagrant misuse of the rules.

• Friends and family must purchase tickets and only one person per performer is permitted backstage or in the changing areas (must be a ticket holder)
• The performance will take place on 2 x 45mm rigged X-Poles. From the audiences perspective the left pole will be spinning, the right static. There is approximately 2.6 metres between the poles, they are 3.2metres tall.
• There will be a selection of hot and cold drinks and snacks available from the in-house bar.
• We will have one 45mm X-stage Lite for you to practice on backstage near the changing area where there will be lots of room to warm up and stretch.

• We do not want to restrict your competition outfits however the wearing of thongs are not permitted. Neither is any clothing that is more revealing than a bra (e.g. nipple tassels). Clothing must be suitable for a family audience. There is strictly no nudity.
• The removal of clothing is permitted provided that the costume underneath is appropriate (see above).
• You may perform in heels - please be sure to wear heels that you can dance in comfortably to avoid injury.
• Please note that while removal of clothing and performing in heels is allowed, routines must be family-friendly. Sensual style is permitted but overtly sexual movements or gestures may result in disqualification.
• Please remember to practice in your costume and have a dress rehearsal so that you can be sure your costume is suitable and doesn’t get caught or restrict your movement. You may be marked down if your costume interferes with your grip and makes moves dangerous or obstructs you from view (ie long skirts falling over your head)
• We strongly encourage creativity and imagination so the use of props can be a great way to do this.
• You must wear shoes at all times except for in the performance area (other than footwear that is part of costume ie heels - these must only be worn in the performance area to prevent transfer of dirt or glass from other areas into the performance area). This is to avoid injury and to keep your feet clean! Judges may mark you down if you have dirty feet.
• Wardrobe malfunctions may result in disqualification.

• We expect all entrants to behave appropriately on the day and in the days leading up to the competition.
• Obviously this is a competition and we expect a competitive spirit but we also expect a high level of sportsmanship among entrants.
• We do understand that you want to enjoy yourself, however alcohol is strictly prohibited before and during your performance. However you may drink once your performance is over (provided you are over 18). The use of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. Any entrant found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol before their performance will be banned from taking part in the competition.

• Photos and video taken on the day of the competition remain the property of the Midlands Pole Championships. By entering you agree that footage may be used for promotional and advertisement purposes and will seek no compensation for their use.

• In the video heat 5 competitors from Performance ( Amateur), Performance (Experienced), Intermediate, Advanced, Masters and Semi-Pro and 5 pairs in doubles will be chosen to go through to the Finals!
• We will have one winner in each category (one pair in the doubles) and one runner up.
• We will also have prizes for best tricks and best entertainer.
• If you are interested in sponsoring us then please contact us. You can find out more info here.

Here are our previous winners and runner ups. Well done to all those who won and to everyone who took part!

2023

• Judges: Damian Kutryb, Kirsty Griffiths, Ebony Aurora, Alicia-Domenica
• Performer Amateur: Maya Anastasia, Paris Gibbs
• Performer Experienced: Jennie G, Nicole Ringrose
• Intermediate: Beccie Beare, Ella McCahill
• Advanced: Sanjana, Kasia Skrzypczak
• Masters: Mariana, Laura Burger
• Semi-Pro: Elisha Green, Gemma Roberts
• Doubles: Laura Burger & Jade Strugnell, Nicole Ringrose & Anna Mason
• Best Choreography: Jennie G
• Best Tricks: Elisha Green

2022

• Judges: Annalisa Muresu, Jade Bensilum, Liam Tipping, Rachel Britton
• Performer Amateur: Clara Glockner, Tara Bates
• Performer Experienced: Jade Strugnell, Adrianna Andryszak
• Intermediate: Mihalea Magdic, Nicole Ringrose
• Advanced: Lucy Eaton, Coralie Roy
• Semi-Pro: Giordaina Hartley, Kelly Rose
• Doubles: Jade & Nicole, Ali & Katey
• Best Choreography: Jinan
• Best Tricks: Giordaina Hartley

2021

• Judges: Annalisa Muresu, Jade Bensilum, Liam Tipping, Rachel Britton
• Performer Amateur: Martina Tanneriello
• Performer Experienced: Rachel Marsden Hannah Leigh
• Intermediate: Rose Chung, Ella McCahill
• Advanced: Clare Saunders, Lucy Eaton
• Semi-Pro: Mia Sky, Kelly Rose
• Doubles: Lindsey Burton & Butterfly Kate, HLDivas
• Best Choreography: Rachel Marsden
• Best Tricks: Kelly Rose

2019

• Judges: Annalisa Muresu, Sam King, Rachel Britton
• Performer: Bethany Morris, Zoe Fackerell
• Intermediate: Jennifer Juby, Cherry Queer
• Advanced: Jessica Dove, Georgia Taylor
• Semi - Pro: Georgia Thompson, Kelly Rose
• Doubles: Jana Polakova & Tess Turner, Zorena Roe & Emily Draper
• Best Choreography: Ella McCahill
• Best Tricks: Jessica Dove

2017

• Judges: Lauren Red, Pippa Loveridge, Lorna Walker
• Intermediate: Aimee Spinks, Hannia West
• Advanced: Jana Klimova, Aimee Hatchman
• Semi-Pro: Liam Tipping, Ceri Jones
• Professional: Dannon Jennings, Mollie Eve Burke
• Doubles: Gemma Praid and Dannon Jennings, Cassie Dean and Samantha Layton
• Best Tricks: Ceri Jones
• Best Costume: Cassie Dean and Samantha Layton
• Best Choreography: Ellise Grizzle

2015

• Judges: Lauren Red, Pippa Loveridge, Donna Treadgold & Karen Chaundy
• Beginners: Rachel Plumb, Amy Cawthrow
• Intermediate: Katt Benstead, Melanie Badham
• Advanced: Charlotte Tait, Lucy Madelaine Eaton
• Professional: Claire Cotterill, Cassie Bee
• Doubles: Karen Gaunt & Laura Leather, Natasha Medlin & Sophie Black
• Best Tricks: Lucy Eaton
• Best Entertainer: Rachel Plumb
• Best Costume: Rosie E Wilson

2014

• Judges: Lauren Red, Pippa Loveridge, Donna Treadgold, Lorna Walker, Pantera Blacksmith, Annalisa Muresu
• Beginners: Victoria Sharman, Katherine Wibmer
• Intermediate: Hannah Standley, Victoria Salentino
• Advanced: Aynsley Brittle, Melissa Hill
• Professional: Jade Marissa Tinkler, Claire Cotterill
• Doubles: Daniel Clarke & Mollie-Eve Burke, Aynsley Brittle & Paul Perrygrove
• Best Tricks: Jade Marissa Tinkler
• Best Entertainer: Aynsley Brittle
• Best Costume: Melissa Hill

2013

• Judges: Lauren Red, Pippa Loveridge, Donna Treadgold, Jess Leanne Norris, Justine McLucas
• Beginners: Hannah Standley, Frankie Grace Lister
• Intermediate: Sara Powell, Julie Jules von Stead
• Advanced: Lauren Smith, Jenny Coulling
• Professional: Annalisa Muresu, Sandrea Simons
• Best Tricks: Annalisa Muresu
• Best Entertainer: Lauren Smith
• Best Costume: Sandrea Simons