Judging Criteria & Fine Print

The Fine Print

Eligibility
- All nominees must be based in NSW and actively contributing to the NSW burlesque community.
- Nominees may only be considered in categories that reflect their work (e.g. teachers cannot be nominated for MC of the Year unless they actively MC).
Nominations
- Nominations are open to the public and anyone active in the NSW burlesque scene may submit.
- Nominations must be complete and truthful - incomplete or misleading submissions may be disqualified.
- Nominations must be submitted before the closing date to be considered.
Judging & Shortlisting
- The top five nominees in each category will be shortlisted and reviewed by the judging panel against the judging criteria.
- Judges’ decisions are final and confidential.
- Judges must declare any conflicts of interest (e.g. close collaborators, students, partners) and may abstain from voting in those categories.
Promotional Use
- By accepting a nomination, nominees agree to provide promotional photos and materials (where applicable).
- Images and names may be used for promotional purposes across event marketing, press releases and social media.
Acts & Submissions
- For performance-based categories, nominees may be asked to provide footage of an act or sample work.
- Submissions must be the nominee’s original work or a collaboration they were a primary contributor to.
Conduct & Community Spirit
- The Pearlies celebrate community, inclusivity and respect. Any conduct that undermines these values may result in disqualification.
- Online harassment, bullying or negative campaigning will not be tolerated.
Awards Night
- Winners will be announced live at The Pearlies Awards ceremony.
- Attendance is encouraged but not mandatory; awards will be held for winners unable to attend.
Number of Categories
- Individuals can be nominated in multiple categories, but may only accept a maximum of two wins in one year.
Disqualification Clause
- The organisers reserve the right to remove a nominee if new information emerges that goes against community standards.

The Pearlies - The Fine Print

Judging Criteria

Judging Criteria for Performers (Tease of the Year, Performer of the Year, Next Tease, Timeless Tease, Ensemble Excellence)

Creativity & Originality
How fresh and inventive is the artist? Do they bring something new or exciting to the stage?
Technical Skill & Execution
Quality of movement, choreography, costume and overall polish. Are the routines clean, confident and well-rehearsed?
Stage Presence & Audience Impact
Does the artist command the room with charisma, energy and that irresistible tease? How memorable and engaging is their presence?
Contribution to the Scene
How does the artist support and uplift the local community through collaboration, mentorship or participation?
Consistency & Professionalism
Reliability and dedication, including professionalism on and offstage.

Judging Criteria for Producers & Production (Producer of the Year, Production of the Year)

Vision & Creativity
Originality and ambition behind the event or production. How innovative and exciting is the concept?
Execution & Quality
How smoothly and professionally is the event produced? Consider attention to detail, talent curation, diversity and overall production values.
Impact on the Community
Does the production strengthen and inspire the NSW burlesque scene? Does it create opportunities and foster inclusivity?
Audience Experience
How engaging and memorable is the event for attendees?

Judging Criteria for Teachers & Schools (Guiding Star Award, Star Factory Award)

Teaching Skill & Technique
How effectively does the teacher or school develop student skills and confidence?
Inspiration & Mentorship
The ability to motivate, nurture and guide students in their burlesque journeys.
Contribution to the Community
Supporting the growth of the NSW burlesque scene through education and inclusion.
Professionalism & Consistency
Reliable, approachable and dedicated to student progress and wellbeing.

Sparkle & Stitch Award (Creative, Costuming, Props, Design)

Creativity & Innovation
How original and imaginative are the designs, costumes and/or props? Does the work push boundaries and bring fresh glamour?
Craftsmanship & Detail
Quality of construction, finishing and attention to detail. Is the work polished and professional?
Impact on Performance
How much does the costume or design enhance the performer’s act or the overall production?
Reliability & Collaboration
Dependability and ability to work smoothly with performers and production teams.

The Limelight Award (Photography, Lighting, Music, Video)

Artistic Vision & Style
How striking and creative is the visual or audio work? Does it capture the mood and magic of burlesque?
Technical Excellence
Quality of lighting, sound, photography or video production. Is the technical execution flawless?
Contribution to Audience Experience
How much does the work elevate the atmosphere and audience engagement during shows?
Professionalism & Teamwork
Consistency, punctuality and ability to collaborate with artists and production teams.

Behind the Boa Award (Backstage & Show Support)

Efficiency & Problem-Solving
Ability to keep the show running smoothly and handle challenges behind the scenes.
Support & Team Spirit
Willingness to help others and foster a positive, collaborative backstage environment.

MC of the Year

Stage Presence & Charisma
How engaging and confident is the MC in holding the audience’s attention?
Vocal Skill & Clarity
Quality of voice and delivery that guides the show smoothly and stylishly.
Rapport & Timing
Ability to read the room, interact with performers and audience, and maintain perfect pacing.
Contribution to Show Flow & Energy
How well does the MC elevate the overall vibe and keep the event sparkling?