21.01.2026

2 min read

Calling all dance makers in the North of England!

We invite you to apply for a co-commission supported by Dance in the North – a consortium of dance organisations and venues who are committed to working together to enhance artist development, artist support and dance programming in the North of England.

This co-commission is offered to support the development of a new piece of dance performance, with an expectation that this will lead to public presentation during its development in 2026/27 at scratch nights.

Additionally, the successful artist/company, will engage with Dance in the North partners to explore presentation opportunities once the work is fully produced.

This pilot scheme offers a £12,500 co-commission supported by Yorkshire Dance, Cheshire Dance, Lancaster Arts, Dance City, Lowry.

The wider Dance in the North partnership will support the successful artist/company with advocacy and relationship development.

Summary of offer

• £12,500 commissioning fee
• Scratch Night performance opportunities in Salford, Newcastle and Leeds (additional presentation fees available)
• Research and rehearsal residencies (available at Yorkshire Dance, Dance City, Bradford Arts Centre, Lowry.)
• Technical residency space (available at Lancaster Arts and Dance City.)
• Advice and support on environmental sustainability
• Advice and support on access and inclusion
• Mentoring and dramaturgy
• Advice and support with tour-booking
• Fundraising and producing support

Eligible artist/companies must:

• Have a proven track record in creating dance performance
• Have a proven track record of successfully managing your own funded projects
• Be living and working in the North of England

Who is not eligible?

• Artist/Companies who receive regular sustained funding as part of Arts Council
• Artist/Companies whose main art form is not dance
• Artist/Companies who do not live or work in the North of England
• Artist/Companies who are proposing work which is already developed and has been presented (but work that has already undergone early-stage Research and Development is eligible.).

Selection Criteria:

• The originality & strength of the artistic idea
• The artist/company’s track record
• How feasible and realistic the proposed project is within the scope of the commission
• A strong commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

Process

STAGE 1

Thursday 11th December 2025: Open for Applications

Monday 2nd March 2026: Deadline for Applications

2nd March – 27th March 2026: Partner shortlisting and contacting shortlisted artist/companies.

STAGE 2

April 20th – 8th May 2026: Conversations with shortlisted artist/companies

May (date TBC) 2026: Selection and Announcement

Project timeline: June 2026 – March 2028

Application

You can apply:

• In writing, by video, or by audio recording

Please find the application form HERE.

If you have any questions or require any support with your application, please contact João Maio, Artist Development Producer at Yorkshire Dance on joaomaio@yorkshiredance.com.