Feb 13, 2026
Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts.
The 2026 season is officially in motion! This week on On A Water Break, Joey, Jeremy, and Emily break down the newly released WGI 2026 regional schedule and discuss the ripple effects of recent DCI rule changes. We also take a deep dive into the technical side of color guard, focusing on the precision of flag spacing and how to keep an entire ensemble in time during high-velocity moves.
Segment Breakdown
Marching Arts News
WGI 2026 Regional Schedule Released
Source: WGI.org
WGI has officially dropped the dates and locations for the 2026 regional season.
The schedule includes new venues and the return of fan-favorite power regionals.
"The WGI 2026 regional schedule is out and it's making everyone realize that April is a lot closer than it looks on the calendar."
DCI Rule Changes for the 2026 Season
Source: DCI.org
New updates regarding electronics and performance safety have been clarified for the upcoming summer.
The panel discusses how these changes will impact show design and rehearsal logistics.
"DCI is making some moves with the rulebook... it's interesting to see how these changes are going to affect the creative side of the summer."
60-Second Tech Block
Topic: Flag Spacing and Ensemble Timing
Maintaining consistent spacing between flags is crucial for visual clarity in large-scale ensembles.
Performers should use "peripheral checks" and feet-to-hand synchronization to stay in time during complex transitions.
"If your spacing is off by even six inches, the whole picture breaks... you have to find that center point in the silk and keep your timing locked with the person next to you."
Water We Doing?!
Jeremy — Ranting about last-minute schedule changes that leave performers and staff scrambling without proper communication.
Joey — Addressing the "dead time" in rehearsals where performers are left standing around while staff debates a transition.
"What are we doing changing the rehearsal site two hours before we start? People have lives and commutes, let's keep the communication clear."
Gush & Go
Emily — Celebrating her return to the podcast and the incredible energy of the new Season 4 team.
Jeremy — Gushing over the early season progress of his color guard and their "workhorse" attitude.
"I am just so happy to be back in the booth with you guys. The energy this season is already through the roof."
Guard Closet
This episode is presented on Guard Closet — your home for marching arts consignment, design help, microsites, gifts, and in-stock essentials.
FAQ (Quick Answers for Marching Arts People)
When was the WGI 2026 regional schedule released?
Answer: The schedule was released recently, marking the start of logistical planning for the 2026 season.
"The WGI 2026 regional schedule is out and it's making everyone realize that April is a lot closer."
What is a key focus for flag ensemble timing?
Answer: Locking the timing of the hand release with the movement of the feet ensures the ensemble remains synchronized.
"you have to find that center point in the silk and keep your timing locked."
Why are last-minute rehearsal changes a problem?
Answer: They disrupt the schedules of performers and staff and create unnecessary stress before the rehearsal even begins.
"What are we doing changing the rehearsal site two hours before we start?"
What does "teamwork makes the dream work" mean for OAWB?
Answer: It's the philosophy the new Season 4 crew is using to manage the technical and creative sides of the podcast.
"Teamwork makes the dream work... we're all doing this together."
How should performers check their spacing during a show?
Answer: By using peripheral vision to align their equipment with the performers around them without breaking performance focus.
"If your spacing is off by even six inches, the whole picture breaks."
Is Emily a permanent host now?
Answer: Emily has returned as a regular presence on the show for Season 4 after being a recurring host in the past.
"I used to be a recurring host and then life got... I am just so happy to be back."
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