NEWS: AIMS Adjudication Review Changes in place the 2025/26 Season

Below are some important updates from the AIMS Adjudication Review subcommittee, which were announced at our National AGM earlier this year.

A cháirde,

We would like to thank all the societies that engaged meaningfully in the AIMS Adjudication review process and also to the individuals that attended the workshop and focus group events in relation to the formation of a formal marking scheme etc. Ahead of the nominations coming out this year, we wanted to inform societies of the changes that relate to the Awards which will take place with immediate effect for this season.

CHANGES AFFECTING AWARDS NOMINATIONS

Increase in Number of Nominees per Category

The number of nominees in each award category will be increased from three to five, with the exception of the Youth Performance category. Expanding the number of nominees better reflects the scale, diversity, and quality of productions being adjudicated, particularly given the growing participation across societies. This change also allows for greater recognition of excellence while maintaining the integrity and competitiveness of the awards.

Renaming of Best Chorus to Best Choral Singing

The award currently titled Best Chorus will be renamed Best Choral Singing. This change more accurately reflects the specific skill being recognised and ensures greater clarity for societies, performers, and adjudicators. The revised title places a clear emphasis on vocal performance, blend, balance, and musicality, supporting more focused and consistent adjudication in relation to Choral Singing.

Clarification of Best Ensemble Criteria

The Best Ensemble award is now clearly defined as recognising the combined choreography and acting of the ensemble as a whole throughout a production (both principals and chorus). This award will not be adjudicated on a single number, dance routine, or isolated scene, but rather on the sustained cohesion, energy, and contribution of the full cast across the entire production.

Reframing Best Choreography as Best Moment of Theatre

The existing Best Choreography category is being redefined as Best Moment of Theatre, recognising an outstanding theatrical moment within a production. This category will celebrate excellence in storytelling, impact, and creativity, regardless of discipline, and allows adjudicators to acknowledge moments that transcend traditional category boundaries and significantly enhance the audience experience. This can be in recognition of a particular scene, moment of theatre, musical number, on stage relationship etc.

Redefinition of the Spirit of AIMS Award

The Spirit of AIMS award is to be restricted to achievements that are not otherwise recognised within the awards scheme. This award should not be presented for performance-based excellence, but instead recognise qualities such as resilience, perseverance, community spirit, or the overcoming of significant adversity. This ensures the award remains meaningful, distinctive, and aligned with the core values of AIMS.

OTHER CHANGES

Development of a Formal Marking Scheme and Criteria

A comprehensive and standardised marking scheme has been developed for the AIMS adjudication process. A formal marking scheme will promote consistency and fairness across adjudicators, societies, and regions, and reduce variability from year to year. Clear criteria and weighting will support objective assessment, improve the quality of feedback provided to societies, and enhance confidence in the adjudication system among the membership.

Online Registration for AIMS Adjudication

The AIMS adjudication registration process has already began its transition to an online system. Moving registration online will improve efficiency, accuracy, and consistency across the scheme, while reducing administrative burden for both AIMS and member societies. An online system will also allow for clearer timelines, improved data management, and easier access to information for adjudicators and administrators, supporting a more transparent and streamlined adjudication process. Societies must all abide by the six week rule in terms of applying for the adjudication of their show.

Note: The AIMS Awards Nominations will be announced on Saturday 16th May at 7pm online.

The AIMS Choral Festival will take place the following weekend -= 22nd-24th May 2026.