Scoraíocht Rules & Guidelines

The basic principles of good stage presentation apply to Scoraíocht but the following, more detailed instructions will, it is hoped, prove assistance to all participants. There are two distinct methods of approach to presentation of a Scoraíocht each with equal validity:

The dramatic or script type approach in which the producer chooses his/her theme and writes, a detailed script which identifies each character in the cast whether performer or actor, and by means of the dialogue into which are suitable woven the various items of music, song, dance, story, recitation etc. – the theme is developed to its conclusion
The approach by which the chosen theme is developed through the medium of the music, songs and dance, stories, recitations etc. In this case the producer apportions his/her allotted time between singing, dancing and music, as distinct from time used to accompany the dancers and having selected the pieces appropriate to the theme and based on the capabilities of the performers, proceed to weld these into a continuous entertainment package with a minimum of dialogue. Theme to be developed for Scoraíocht competitions by the producer. Sample themes can include: Fleadh Seisiún, Treshing Day, Fair Day,St. Patrick`s Day, St. Stephan`s Day (Wren Boys), Emigration, Rambling House , American Wake, Delayed flight, Boat trip, Local Radio Station.

Singing, dancing and music details similar to details as in Pléaracha above.

General Rules:

The following rules apply to Scoraíocht competitions:

Participating Groups will comprise of not less than 12 performers and a maximum of 45 per group. A group may be drawn from a maximum of three branches within the same county.
The duration of the programme for Scoraíocht will be not less than 30 and not more than 35 minutes max. Penalties of one mark per minute or part thereof for groups who do not meet the lower 30 minute limit or exceed the 35 minute limit.
An Empty stage to be shown before any group takes to the stage. Once the curtain is closed the teams have a maximum of 50 minutes to set up the stage, perform their Scoraíocht show and clear the stage after which the blank stage will be shown again. The production adjudicator will monitor this time from empty stage to empty stage and penalties will apply to those who exceed the 50 minute threshold.
Suitable clothing should be used where possible to make the performance and stage as bright and cheerful as possible. No Irish Dancing wigs are permitted.
The set should be suitably dressed, in accordance with the dictates of the theme.
Props should be carefully selected bearing in mind transport difficulties and they must be capable of being assembled in 10 min and removed in 5 mins
As per adjudication section above, A list of music pieces in the order to be played and a list of instruments shall be submitted by each Scoraíocht Producer to the competition clerk prior to the performance.

Presentation Method

Groups to be encouraged to reflect and promote local music/songs/dances. This is to be factored into the adjudicators marking guidelines.
Groups are permitted to use céilí drums and electronic piano however no other electronic instruments are permitted.
Credit will be given for the inclusion of lesser known tunes, local ballads and songs in the Irish language, step dancing, figure dancing, traditional solo, dancing and sean nós dancing.

Each Adjudicator selected to adjudicate either a Scoraíocht competition must apportion their marks as follows:

Music 30%, Singing / Scéalaíocht 20%, Dancing 20%, Production 30%