About the Open Call

Choreodrome is The Place’s annual residency programme designed to support experienced artists in developing their choreographic work and ideas. The summer program fosters a vibrant hub of creativity, offering opportunities for artists to connect with peers, professionals, and audiences. New for 2026, the program offers two levels of commissioning: 4 x £2,000 commissions for 1 week of studio space and a pitching opportunity for ideas in early development, and 6 x £4,000 commissions for 2 weeks of studio space and a performance opportunity for substantially developed ideas. Artists will benefit from professional network development through weekly artist networking lunches, sharing work at 'Choreodrome: making progress' (a networking event for programmers and dance industry professionals), and support for further work development. Bespoke choreographic development support includes producing and marketing meetings, 1-1 studio sessions, dramaturgical advice from Ben Wright (The Place's Artist Associate), a 2-day choreographic lab in Spring 2027, and free technical equipment hire. Additionally, three 'Booster Packs' are available: a Hip Hop Booster Pack with Just Us Dance Theatre, a Bradford Arts Centre Booster Pack offering a residency week and additional financial support, and a Knowledge Exchange Booster Pack with London Contemporary Dance School for artists interested in interdisciplinary collaboration and research.

What is Offered

Commissions of £2,000 (for 1 week studio) or £4,000 (for 2 weeks studio), pitching and performance opportunities, mentorship, professional development support, networking events, access to technical equipment, and specialized booster packs (Hip Hop, Bradford Arts Centre, Knowledge Exchange).

Requirements

Applicants must be based in the UK and apply with work featuring a strong and distinctive movement element, suitable for presentation in The Place’s Theatre. Previous experience in making and touring high-quality work is required, and applicants should not be currently in education (unless at PhD level). Specific requirements apply for the £2,000 commissions (new or substantially reworked ideas) and £4,000 commissions (at least one previous studio-based R&D phase, 3 minutes of video material, and an additional partner/funder).

How to Apply

Applicants should apply using the provided online application form. A Word Document containing all questions is available for download. An Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form must also be filled in. For support during the application process or alternative formats, contact choreodrome@theplace.org.uk.