What aspect of dance performance can influence a judge's overall score the most?

The aspect of dance performance that can most significantly influence a judge's overall score is the combination of technical skills and emotional expression. This is because judges are tasked with assessing how well dancers execute their movements, including precision, control, and mastery of technique. Strong technical skills demonstrate a dancer's training and ability, which are fundamental to a skilled performance.

Additionally, emotional expression plays a critical role in how impactful a performance is. Judges look for the ability to convey emotions and connect with the audience, which can elevate a dance beyond mere technical execution. A performance that flawlessly integrates both technical prowess and genuine emotional display is likely to resonate more with judges, leading to higher scores.

While aspects like costume quality, audience reaction, and social media presence can enhance overall perception and visibility, they do not carry the same weight in the evaluation of a dance as the dancer's technical skills and emotional conveyance do. Costumes may complement a performance but do not replace the need for skill and emotional depth. Audience response can be subjective and may vary from one event to another, while social media presence does not directly impact the judging of a live performance. Ultimately, judges prioritize the artistry and execution of the dance itself.