What is the MayDay Review, where did it come from, and why do we require it?
Over the years, the Fire Conclave Council brainstormed different ways to help Fire Groups prepare for their audition video submissions. We sent out the Fire Conclave Handbook, the Video Primer, wrote Shin Tips, reviewed Monthly Reports, and even created Social Media pages (and currently Discord) in the hopes of educating and providing enough information for Shins to disseminate and pass on to their groups. Yet, despite our best efforts, groups still struggled with the basics revolving around choreography and filming requirements. As a result, the concept of the May Day Review came into being.
In 2018, we launched the first MayDay Review. The idea was that Fire Groups submit a short video showing us their choreography concept and video technique. In return, we send them our thoughts on whether or not we think they are on the right track (both choreography and filming technique-wise), and suggestions on what we feel can be improved upon. The results have been so successful that we’ve decided to continue to require it. We truly feel this preliminary critique will give you the tools you need to make sure your final video is presented in the best way possible, and aid your success towards making it into Fire Conclave.
What do we require of your MayDay Video submission?
- Total length of Video (approximately 5 minutes long, but no longer than 6 minutes)
- Duet (at least 45 seconds)
- 2 Scenes (between 1 – 3 minutes in length each)
- 1 Transition (either between the Duet and a Scene, or between the two scenes)
What we don’t require:
- Fire
- Costuming
- Polish (we get it will be rough!)
What is the Fire Conclave Council looking for?
- Video filming specifics such as:
- Framing
- Editing
- Camera Focus
- Blocking, etc.
- Choreography specifics such as:
- Making sure your duet meets the criteria
- Transitions between scenes are efficient and safe
- Dancing styles are not too chaotic or renegade-esque.
- Location specifics such as:
- Clear backgrounds
- Uncluttered sidelines
- Other distractions
How do I submit my video?
- Link to Submission Form: http://tinyurl.com/Mayday-Review-Form-2024
- Deadline: May 1, 2023 at midnight Pacific Time
Note: Please do not send us more than 6 minutes. We will not review more than the first six minutes of your video (and actually prefer less than 5 minutes!).
In order to give you the best opportunity for success, we review each video and send you our feedback. These critiques are often unfiltered. It’s important to remember that if we sound harsh or critical, our intent is to help by giving you quick and honest suggestions. Our review of the Mayday video will not affect your Audition video review. It is our sincere hope that you will take our suggestions to heart, as they are intended to help you succeed in the audition process.
For more info about the Mayday Video process and expectations, check out the video primer found on the Fire Conclave Resource Page – https://fireconclave.org/resources/
The Fire Conclave Council is here to help. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us via email at: fireconclave@burningman.org
Good Luck!
The Fire Conclave Council,
Crimson, Tabasco, Wrangler, Scorch and Natalie
Photo by EsspressoBuzz
