Code of Conduct

Last updated — 2026

American Ballet Awards is committed to creating an environment defined by excellence, respect, encouragement and professionalism. This code summarises the conduct expected of everyone at an ABA event and is drawn from Parts IV and V of the ABA Rules & Regulations, which govern in full.

Everyone at an ABA event

Dancers, parents, guardians, teachers, coaches, studio representatives and guests are expected to treat fellow participants, ABA staff, adjudicators, faculty and venue personnel with respect.

• Harassment, intimidation, bullying and aggressive behaviour will not be tolerated.
• Deliberate interference with another competitor is prohibited.
• Inappropriate communication with adjudicators is prohibited.
• ABA may remove an individual from an event, or take further action, where conduct materially disrupts the competition or compromises the experience or safety of participants.

Respect for fellow competitors

Competition and community can exist on the same stage. Dancers are encouraged to compete with ambition while demonstrating respect for the work and accomplishments of their peers. Celebrating another dancer’s success does not diminish one’s own.

Sportsmanship, professionalism and respect are expected throughout competition, classes, backstage areas, awards ceremonies and all ABA-related activities.

Backstage and in class

• Backstage access is limited to individuals authorised by ABA. Parents and spectators are generally not permitted backstage.
• Backstage areas remain calm, organised and respectful of dancers preparing to perform. Excessive noise, disruptive behaviour and obstruction of entrances or exits are not permitted.
• Master classes are educational environments and are approached with the same discipline and professionalism expected in a ballet studio.

In the theatre

• Guests enter and exit the theatre only when appropriate.
• Talking, movement through the theatre during performances, or conduct that interferes with a dancer’s performance may result in removal from the performance space.
• Flash photography is prohibited during competition performances.

Competition integrity

Attempts to manipulate scoring, falsify eligibility information, enter an inappropriate division deliberately, interfere with another competitor or improperly influence an adjudicator are prohibited. Dancers, parents, teachers, coaches and studio representatives may not privately approach or contact an adjudicator regarding a score, placement, Award, Honor, Emerging Artist consideration or scholarship. Questions about results go to an authorised ABA representative.

Serious violations may result in loss of award eligibility or disqualification.

Questions

Write to hello@americanballetawards.com, or read how adjudication works.