Section 4:   Performance Space


  • See Fig. A for an illustration. Routines are always to be choreographed and executed with an orientation to the center of the front, long side of the performance space. This is the standard position for the video camera. If an alternate video camera position is approved, choreography should still be planned and executed to the standard position.

  • Size: The stage will be rectangular.
    VIDEO EVENTS: The preferred dimension is 40 x 50 feet (12 x 15 meters). When space is an issue, a 30 x 40 foot (9 x 12 meter) ring may be used.

  • Ring Markers or Gating: The performance space is based on a proscenium stage.
    VIDEO EVENTS: The space must be designated in either one of two ways:

    • With markers approximately 12 inches (30 cm) in height. Small cones or potted flowers may be used. The markers will be placed at the corners and the center points of each side.

    • With ring gates or fencing and center markers on four sides.

    • Video submissions missing ring marker(s) or gates/fencing will be marked as a minor or major error, depending on severity and at judge’s discretion. Major errors will disqualify (DQ) the performance.

 

  • Video Events: Take care to place your camera and music such that you, your dogs, the ring and your music are easily seen and heard by the judge.

    • Ideally, the camera should be placed a minimum of 6 feet (2 meters) from the edge of the front of the ring at the center. The MDSA recognizes finding a space to meet requirements can be a challenge. If you discover an alternate camera angle or spacing is required, you must contact the Executive Board at musicaldogsport@gmail.com for prior approval. Under no circumstances will the camera position be on the short side of the ring.

    • The camera should remain in a stationary position if at all possible. Camera pans and zooms are acceptable, but both the dog and handler should remain in view as much as possible and as choreography permits.

    • A short pan of the ring and dog/handler placement just prior to beginning your routine is a good way to demonstrate your physical space to the judges and alleviate questions, especially if you begin your routine separated from your dog at a distance.

    • The music should remain as close to the camera as possible.

    • The footage should be the original copy unless it has to be copied in order to conform to one of the acceptable formats. Absolutely no editing should be done to the original footage.

    • For video editing purposes, record approximately 5 seconds before and after your actual performance. You no longer need to include a title screen or a 30 second blank screen.  The five second recording could be: the team entering the ring, setting up for the opening move, or a quick panning of the ring.

    • Any exceptions to the Performance Space Guidelines must have ring approval from the MDSA Executive Board prior to the video event submission date.  Please contact us at musicaldogsport@gmail.com.

  • The preferred recording order would be:
    - Team enters the performance ring
    - Handler acknowledges audience
    - Handlers cues the music to start
    - Team performs their routine
    - Handler praises dog
    - Handler waves at audience
    - Team leaves the performance ring.

There is no need to add fancy transitions to your video, or a title, frames, pictures, etc. Those will be removed for judging.