Feb 13, 2026
Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts.
The 2026 winter season is moving fast! This week, Grantis, Dalton, and Amari break down the logistics for the WGI Virtual Solo and Ensemble events and discuss why taking professional performance classes—like Dalton’s recent commercial acting stint—is a game-changer for color guard members. Plus, we celebrate the season opener for North Point High School and their "eye-opening" new production.
egment Breakdown
Marching Arts News
WGI 2026 Virtual Solo & Ensemble Reminders
Source: WGI.org
The registration deadline for the 2026 Virtual Solo events has just passed, with video uploads scheduled for mid-February.
Results for these virtual evaluations are expected to be posted on WGI.org on March 2nd.
"WGI Virtual Solo and Ensemble is such a great way for individuals to get feedback without the stress of a full regional travel schedule."
Performance Training Outside the Gym
Dalton Stout shares insights from his recent commercial acting and modeling training in Las Vegas.
The panel discusses how "external" performance skills (facial expressions, body awareness, and character work) translate directly to the competition floor.
"I’ve got some new, fresh experiences... I think taking classes outside of just guard technique is what makes a performer really stand out."
60-Second Tech Block
Topic: Facial Performance and Eye Contact
Performers often forget to "perform" with their eyes, focusing only on the equipment.
Tech tip: Practice "projecting" your character to the highest seat in the stadium to ensure your performance reads from a distance.
"If you're looking at your equipment, the judges are looking at your equipment. If you're looking at the audience, they're looking at you."
Water We Doing?!
Amari — Ranting about performers who forget to hydrate during the winter season just because it's cold outside.
Grantis — Addressing the "sweater weather" struggle; performers need to be properly warmed up before taking off layers to avoid muscle strain.
"What are we doing not drinking water in the winter? You’re still sweating under those stadium lights!"
Gush & Go
Dalton — Gushing over North Point High School (Wentzville, MO) and their show "What is Jazz?".
Amari — A quick shoutout to the return of sunny weather and the energy it brings to rehearsal.
Grantis — Celebrating the successful fall seasons of Liberty, Brentwood, and Washington Union high schools.
"North Point High School... 'What is Jazz?' is maybe one of the most eye-opening shows I've worked with. They are just so exciting."
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 are WGI 2026 Solo results posted?
Answer: Results and ratings for the virtual solo events will be available on the WGI website on Monday, March 2nd.
"Results Posted on WGI.org – Monday, March 2nd."
Which school performed "What is Jazz?" this season?
Answer: North Point High School in Saint Louis, Missouri, debuted their show "What is Jazz?" at the Wentzville competition.
"North Point High School out in Saint Louis... 'What is Jazz?' is maybe one of the most, like, eye opening shows."
Why should guard members take acting classes?
Answer: It helps with character development, projection, and maintaining performance quality when the technical demands of the show get difficult.
"I just came off of a week of commercial acting... excited to bring to the color guard community."
What happened at the Wentzville show for North Point?
Answer: The program received a "Fan Favorite" award and was noted for their high energy and engaging performance style.
"They are just so exciting... they got fan favorite."
Is it true that you don't need as much water in the winter?
Answer: False. Performers still lose significant fluids through sweat and respiration, especially in dry, heated indoor facilities.
"Don't forget to drink water."
What are WGI "Regional+" events?
Answer: New for 2026, these are streamlined, cost-conscious events designed to provide an enhanced adjudication model closer to home for many ensembles.
"WGI is proud to unveil the launch of REGIONAL+ events... a direct response to increasing financial challenges."
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