Download the Syllabus as a PDF
The WDSF Syllabus represents a list of basic figures and actions that may be used in any competition with restricted Syllabus (basic- only).
It is obligatory for all Juvenile I and Juvenile II competitions.
The main reason for having a list of figures is to restrict the amount of the choreographic material for children and beginners, so there can be more attention given to mastering the basic mechanics, technique, and rhythmical structures of each dance. The new WDSF Syllabus has been modernized and expanded and gives many new possible combinations of figures.
It is strictly not allowed to use any figure that is not on the list.
On a national level the syllabus can be stricter (containing fewer figures). It is recommended that all WDSF member bodies adopt the WDSF Syllabus as their national Syllabus. That would simplify the participation in the international competitions for all competitors in basic categories.
The figures in the Syllabus are listed by the name they have in the WDSF Technique Books. If the figures are popularly known by another name, that name is given in the brackets.
Some figures and actions are added, that are not in the WDSF books for the dance in question. The reason for this is to give more options when constructing basic choreography. The figures or actions added are those that are already part of the syllabus in another dance. The reference is given to the book where the figure is described.
Each figure has a description of the first step (Start) and last step (Finish).This is to assist in easier combinations of the figures.
The basic timing is also given. The notes bellow each figure give you the alternative possible timings.
Any changes to the figures that are allowed are given in the NOTES bellow the figure. Only the notes that are relevant to the choreographic possibilities are given. For all the technical details you have to refer to the WDSF Technique Books. Parts of a figure may be used if so described in the notes. You are not allowed to freely cut a figure into parts and use them.
The precedes and follows are not given. You may refer to a cross reference table in the WDSF Technique Books.
When constructing choreography any combination of syllabus figures is allowed, as long as the technical description and the notes are respected. The Quantities of Turn given in the WDSF Technique Books are a guideline and may change slightly when necessary in order to construct choreography.
You may not add or take away parts of the figure, unless that is specifically allowed in the notes.
Figures described in other dances that may be used in Slowfox
Figures described in other dances that may be danced in Quickstep