LAB BEFORE THE LAB

DirtyFeet is seeking applications from emerging choreographers for our inaugural Lab Before the Lab.

Developed in response to a need identified through DirtyFeet’s Choreographic Lab, this new program supports artists at the beginning of their choreographic practice to build the experience, connections and confidence needed to take the next steps in their careers.

Designed specifically for early-career artists to meet, exchange and test ideas, the program will unfold part-time over two weeks.

We are seeking two choreographers for the 2027 program. Once the choreographers have been selected, applications will open for emerging dancers. Each choreographer will work with up to four dancers, creating paid opportunities for early-career NSW artists to develop their practice and build new connections and networks.

DirtyFeet will host an online information session on Wednesday 7 October 7.30pm-8.30pm. Register for the info session here.

We encourage you to contact Emma Riches (Producer) to discuss your application and should you require any access support or wish to submit your application in an alternative format please reach out via emma@dirtyfeet.com.au.

EXPRESS YOUR INTEREST

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Applications must be received by 11:59pm Friday 9 October 2026
Selected applicants will be notified of the outcome by Monday 26 October 2026
Please note there is only one round of submissions for the 2027 Lab Before the Lab
Lab Before the Lab selected choreographers will have the opportunity to participate in DirtyFeet's The Right Foot and Emerging Makers programs (2027 dates TBC)

The successful choreographer will receive:

2 part-time weeks of supported creative development
Key dates: Monday 8 - Friday 12 February and Monday 15 - Friday 19 February 2027
Groups will either work morning or afternoon sessions across the two weeks, with a dedicated 1 hour cross over time to meet, share and receive feedback from peers
Studio space: 9am - 1.30pm or 12.30pm - 5pm daily at Glebe Town Hall, 160 St Johns Rd, Glebe
A small, relaxed studio sharing for DirtyFeet staff on the final Friday, 19 February 2027, 4.00pm - 5.00pm
Choreographers fee: $1,100 per week pro rata + Superannuation
Fees for 4 dancers (to be selected via EOI process): $950 per week pro rata + Superannuation per dancer
Mentor support from industry leader Emma Harrison
A professional development workshop on day 1 of the program, led by Emma Harrison
Professional photographic documentation
Basic film documentation of your showing
Administration and management support

Guidelines/Selection Criteria

The program is aimed at early-career choreographers (in their first 2 years of practice)
The project should be based in contemporary dance practices
The artists involved should be based in NSW and able to demonstrate that they have been living in NSW for the past 12 months

EXPRESS YOUR INTEREST

FAQs

Who is this program for?
Lab Before the Lab is for early-career choreographers in approximately their first 1 - 2 years of independent practice. It is particularly suited to artists who have recently completed training or are beginning to explore their own choreographic ideas.

Do I need to have completed formal dance training?
No. We recognise that artists enter professional practice through different pathways. You don't need to have completed full-time study, but you should explain your experience and why this program is right for your current stage of development.

Do I need professional choreographic experience?
No. We're interested in your creative potential, curiosity and willingness to experiment. You don't need an established choreographic practice or a professional CV.

Do I need to live in NSW?
Yes. Applicants must have been based in NSW for at least 12 months before applying.

Do I need to have a fully developed choreographic idea?
No. We want to hear what you're interested in exploring and how you might begin working in the studio. Describe some practical tasks, movement ideas or creative approaches you would like to try. Your ideas can change throughout the program.

Do I need to find my own dancers?
No. DirtyFeet will select two choreographers first, then open a separate application process for dancers. We want to encourage new creative collaborations.

How will the two weeks work?
All ten artists will come together on day one for a creative practice workshop led by mentor Emma Harrison. From day two, artists will work in two groups, each comprising one choreographer and four
dancers.
● Morning session: 9am–1.30pm
● Afternoon session: 12.30pm–5pm
● Daily crossover: 12.30pm–1.30pm for sharing ideas, feedback and peer exchange
Emma Harrison will provide mentorship throughout the program.

Will I need to present a finished work?
No. The focus is on experimentation, not a polished performance. The program concludes with an informal, closed studio sharing for DirtyFeet staff and the mentor. Photography and video documentation will be provided to support future applications and opportunities.

What should I include in my application?
Tell us about your artistic background, why you want to participate, what you hope to explore in the studio and how this opportunity might support your next steps. A short artist and project description is also requested. Use your own words and don’t use AI. Plain English and dot points are welcome. We're interested in your ideas, not how professionally you can write a grant application.

What if my choreographer application is unsuccessful?
You are very welcome to apply as a dancer when those applications open. We encourage artists to stay connected with DirtyFeet and our other programs.

Are there other opportunities?
Successful choreographers will have the opportunity to participate in The Right Foot and Emerging Makers in 2027, supporting ongoing engagement and professional development. We also have an annual Secondment Program which you can apply for – keep an eye on our socials and website for when EOIs open.

Have another question?
We’re happy to talk through your application or answer questions. Please contact DirtyFeet producer Emma Riches (emma at dirtyfeet.com.au) to arrange an email conversation or phone call.

How do I stay connected?
If you aren’t on our mailing list email Emma Riches to sign up. We announce all opportunities via our E-News. You can also follow DirtyFeet on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.