We have 5 progressive dance levels in this edition of the Valencia Balboa Festival, designed according to the overall dance experience of each participant:

1. Balboa Crush
2. A Train
3. Honeysuckle
4. Flying Home
5. Woodside

In practical terms, these correspond roughly to:

* Balboa Crush: Beginner
* A Train: Intermediate
* Honeysuckle: Advanced
* Flying Home: Advanced Plus
* Woodside: Master

Please read the descriptions of each level carefully. Remember that this is an international festival, so levels may differ from the regular classes you attend in your city. After reading the descriptions, choose the level that feels right for you, balancing your instinct, modesty, and ambition. We kindly ask for an honest self-evaluation, as everyone helps create a comfortable and inspiring atmosphere in the classes.

✨ New this year: We are also introducing ELEF – Every Body Leads, Every Body Follows, a special group where roles are flexible and everyone gets to explore both leading and following in a playful, inclusive way

Valencia Balboa Festival – Levels Overview:

 

BALBOA CRUSH

This level is perfect for beginners or those new to Balboa, offering a gentle introduction to the basics. Build confidence, discover the joy of swing, and take your first steps on this rhythmic journey.

A-TRAIN

For dancers with more than 2 years of experience who regularly attend classes, social dances, and international workshops. Medium tempos are your favourite, but you can handle any rhythm. You will continue to expand your dance vocabulary, improvise with musicality, and start exploring the subtleties of connection.

HONEYSUCKLE

Your dancing is expressive, full of rhythm, shapes, and style. You know some fancy moves and enjoy attending advanced workshops. This level focuses on refining technique, expanding your step repertoire, and deepening your musical interpretation — the next stage of your swing journey.

Please note: Due to limited space in the room, this level will be split into two groups.
Groups will be formed according to the order of registration. Once the first group (Honeysuckle) is full, the second group (Honeysuckle 2) will be opened.

FLYING HOME

Fast tempos don’t scare you, your dancing is resourceful and you don’t think twice about competing in the international festivals you attend. At this level, dancers will be required to dance to fast tempo up to 250 bpm and feel comfortable with rhythm and improvisation. This level challenges you to travel further along your swing journey.

Please note: Due to limited space in the room, this level will be split into two groups.
Groups will be formed according to the order of registration. Once the first group (Flying Home) is full, the second group (Flying Home 2) will be opened.

WOODSIDE

Balboa is your passion and expertise! You are an experienced dancer or teacher, attending international workshops regularly. At this level, you focus on creativity, personal style, and mastery of connection and musicality.

Please note: Entry requires a prior audition.
After registering, participants must submit a short video by email within 14 days to confirm their place. Videos can be submitted individually or as a couple; evaluation is individual. Please send your video to: vlcbalboafestival@gmail.com

To ensure a balanced group of leaders and followers, and to maintain the high standard of this level, participants may be reassigned to the Advanced+ level if the required level is not met. This process helps us keep the Woodside group inspiring, balanced, and challenging for everyone.

ELEF – Every Body Leads, Every Body Follows

A playful and inclusive group for dancers who know the basics of Balboa (intermediate level as both leader and follower). Explore connection in a flexible way, taking turns leading and following, while focusing on musicality, communication, and shared improvisation.