Independent Studio Residency: Performing Arts & Music 26/27

About the Open Call

This program offers uninterrupted time and space for artists to start or advance projects in dance studios, rehearsal spaces, or music studios. It is ideal for solo creators or small to medium sized ensembles who need space and freedom to move, make noise, and deeply focus on their work. The residency is open to performance-based practices including dancers, choreographers, theatre-makers, opera artists, musicians, and interdisciplinary collaborators, welcoming them to explore, experiment, and create new work. Participants will have access to dance studios or rehearsal spaces, large instruments, and limited production support. The program is self-directed, without structured programming or mentorship, set in Banff Centre’s inspiring mountain environment. Ideal for bold, self-directed artists and collectives whose projects require specific space, sound, or movement. This includes areas such as Dance (choreography, research), Theatre (playwriting, dramaturgy, development), Opera (composition, research), Music (composition, research), and Interdisciplinary (hybrid or genre-defying work). Residencies include smaller, private studios and rehearsal spaces equipped for performance-based practices, allocated based on need. Studio features may include dance flooring (Marley/sprung or carpet), small PA system, tables, chairs, mirror walls or rolling mirrors, height clearance for lifts/choreography, pianos and other large instruments, and self-recording equipment. Professional recording services may be available for an additional fee upon request. Residencies can be 1 or 2 weeks in length, scheduled from Monday to Friday, with arrival on Sunday and departure on Saturday. Longer residencies are considered on a case-by-case basis. No availability between December 14, 2026, and January 3, 2027.

What is Offered

A single bedroom on the Banff Centre campus, a meal plan equivalent to $68 credit per day, dedicated studio space equipped for performance-based practices, access to the Paul D. Fleck Library and Archives, and campus facilities including the Sally Borden Fitness and Recreation Centre and box office discounts. Financial aid is available.

Requirements

Applications are welcome from creative professionals and collectives at all career stages who have a demonstrated record of accomplishment, a clearly articulated project suitable for a Banff Centre performing arts studio or rehearsal space, and can work independently without mentorship, production, or technical support. Applicants must bring their own equipment and materials. Collaborative groups of up to 6 people can apply. Applicants must be 18+ at the program start date. Both domestic and international applicants are welcome, though Canadian Student Visas are not applicable; international participants must obtain a Visitor Visa.

How to Apply

Applicants must complete an online form (Step 1), pay the application fee (Step 2), and upload supporting materials via SlideRoom (Step 3). Required materials include a two-page resume, a two-page project proposal, a studio request form, a portfolio (5-8 recent examples in audio, video, images, digital links, or written materials), and selection of 3 possible residency dates. Applicants should also complete the Financial Aid question in SlideRoom to be eligible for financial assistance.