Guidelines

• Audition videos are to be submitted at the time of registration and should comply with the following:
  • Dance: (acts featuring choreographed body movements)
  • Music: (acts featuring instruments)
  • Voice: (singing acts)
  • Performance Art: (acts featuring drama, comedy, poetry, puppetry, spoken word, etc)
• Contestants must upload their own video.  In the case of a Group Act, one member of the group should submit the video on the group’s behalf.
• Contestants must register and upload their audition video using the following link “We Rise Talent Showcase Registration Form” on or before Friday, July 7, 2023 at 11.59pm Atlantic Standard Time (UTC−04:00).
• Only fifteen (15) entries will be selected to compete at the grand finale.
• The identity of each contestant must match the name reflected on the online registration form.
• All videos must be recorded in landscape (horizontal) mode.
• Videos must be submitted in MP4 or MOV format.
• Video audio must be clear with minimum distracting noise.
• Videos must not exceed 1 minute and 30 seconds (i.e 90 seconds)  in duration.
• The file size of the video must be 100MB or less and clearly show talent as the primary focus.
• Audio files will not be accepted.
• Videos must be free of nudity, profanity, vulgarity, political affiliation, offensive content and/or imagery and music; pyrotechnics, open flame or dangerous equipment/acts. 

• Video background should be clear and free of clutter.
• Pay attention to your environment:
  • Natural light is best.
  • If you are using lamps or other light sources, ensure that the light source is in front of you.
  • Ensure that the lighting does not create harsh shadows on your face or the wall behind you.
  •  Avoid backlighting or casting strong shadows across your face.
• Select a quiet location:
  • When recording, ensure that your location is void of distracting noises and feedback that can distort the sound quality.
  • Avoid loud noises such as traffic, barking dog/s, gusty winds, and supporting family or friends. Utilise a location that does not produce an echo.
• You may record in a home, school, place of worship (eg. church hall, temple, synagogue, etc.), recital hall, rehearsal room or studio with good natural acoustics without an audience.
• Your camera should record from a fixed position. Do not hold your camera in your hand to record.
• Stay in focus of your camera. Place your camera at a distance where you can ensure that the frame captures your entire body for the full effect of your performance.
• Be mindful of your attire:
  • Avoid all white/black outfits.
  • Stay clear of busy patterns, glitter, branded logos and offensive prints or wording.
• You are encouraged to practice recording your performance. Before uploading your audition video ensure that the best recording of your performance is submitted.

1. A qualified panel of judges will review the audition videos received after the close of the online registration period.
2. The judging panel will select the top fifteen (15) contestants for the finals of the competition.
3. The contestants selected to compete in the competition's finals will be notified by email, and the information will be published on the official event webpage.

1. New video submissions will be required from the contestants selected for the final competition.
2. Video submissions of performances for the final competition should not exceed 4 minutes in duration.
3. Guidelines on the process for the recording of performances will be provided to contestants/reserves during online advising/coaching sessions.
4. The use of material or content that violates any copyright laws will not be allowed, including celebrity photos, logos, music and soundtracks, images, etc.
5. All submissions received become the property of The UWI. Participants grant permission to The UWI to use any photographs, videos and recordings of their performances on any and all platforms including social media.
6. The decision of the panel of judges is final.
7. The top three finalists will be announced at the end of the livestream event.
8. Prizes will be awarded to the winner, 1st and 2nd runners-up.

1. Lip syncing is not allowed.
2. Contestants are responsible for sourcing their own costumes and stage props.
3. Group acts are allowed and should not exceed five (5) persons, each of whom should meet the eligibility criteria for the showcase.
4. During the course of the competition, contestants are not allowed to publicly endorse external brands other than that of their Hall of Residence/Faculty/Department/Campus/ We Rise Talent Showcase.
5. All finalists will be required to attend the virtual talent coaching, filming and technical rehearsal session.
6. Contestants must comply with professional standards during all sessions and will be disqualified for non-compliance

By submitting video clips to this competition, contestants grant permission to The University of the West Indies to:

1. Use their video submission which will be accessible online.
2. Display their videos on The UWI’s website and social media platforms.
3. Publish or share either in print or electronically the video and/or any images of the same.
4. Contestants retain full ownership of their performance.