Dancenorth offers rare opportunities for independent artists

Recognised as one of Australia’s leading performing arts companies, Dancenorth Australia balances a dynamic regional presence with a commitment to creating compelling contemporary dance that tours the globe. Dancenorth is thrilled to announce two opportunities for independent dance artists: their A.R.T. Program and Secondment Program.

Dancenorth’s Artist Residency in the Tropics (A.R.T.) Program offers independent dance practitioners the opportunity to live and work in the spectacular environs of Tropical North Queensland – a landscape thoroughly conducive to creativity.

A.R.T. residents are afforded time and space away from the familiarity of their usual surroundings, enabling not just space for reflection, research and development, but entirely new experiences from which to draw creative inspiration. 

Artists are provided a bursary, along with connectivity to the Company and basic technical support throughout the residency period. Residencies run for a minimum of two weeks and up to three-weeks, based on studio availability. While each residency has no presentation outcome requirements, the dance makers are encouraged to present their explorations at an informal showing for the Company and invited guests, in order to access feedback and prompt critical discussion. 

These residencies will also provide invaluable mentoring opportunities, connecting the practitioners with the Dancenorth Ensemble, and providing exposure to Dancenorth’s Co-Artistic Director Amber Haines and Executive Director Hillary Coyne, to enable and facilitate a sharing of knowledge and creative vision, whilst also fostering reciprocal exchange. 

Applications for the 2026 A.R.T. Program are now open, and close at midnight on Monday, 9 March.

Dancenorth’s free Secondment Program immerses emerging dancers in skills training, creative workshops and repertoire within the stunning North Queensland landscape.

In 2026, up to 25 young and emerging dance artists from Australia and New Zealand will participate in a 5-day immersive experience led by Dancenorth Co-Artistic Director Amber Haines and the Dancenorth Ensemble. 

The Program incorporates exploring various movement methodologies within elongated morning classes/skills training, creative workshops and task processes, environmental responsive sessions, and interrogation of Dancenorth repertoire.

Dancenorth is committed to offering all Secondment Program opportunities to participants free of charge, with the express purpose of ensuring equity of access to these kinds of professional development opportunities. It is Dancenorth’s gift to the dance community.

This year’s Secondment Week Program will run from 22-26 June, 2026. Applications for the 2026 Program will open on Tuesday, 10 March 2026, and will close at midnight on Monday, 6 April.

Learn more at dancenorth.com.au

Image credit Dancenorth