Work with Max Trengove and Shine in Spark! 2026 at VDF
The Victorian Dance Festival (VDF) is thrilled to announce Spark!, an exhilarating new mass dance performance that will unite dancers from across Australia in a powerful celebration of dance and its profound impact on our lives.
Set to premiere as part of Ignite 26, the spectacular showcase event presented by Studio 7 Dancewear, Spark! will be choreographed by VDF Artistic Director Maxwell Trengove. This ambitious piece promises to bring together hundreds of passionate dancers in a unifying, high-energy number that highlights the joy, community, and transformative power of dance.
Every selected participant will have the rare opportunity to work directly with Maxwell Trengove, forge friendships with fellow dancers from around the country, pour their hearts into the performance, and shine on stage in a stunning custom costume provided by Studio 7 Dancewear – which they get to keep as a cherished memento!
Preparation begins in May 2026 with choreography delivered via video for advance learning, followed by four in-person rehearsals in Melbourne at Bentleigh Calisthenics College (11 Walter Street, Moorabbin, Victoria):
- Sunday, 3 May 2026: 10:30am – 2:30pm
- Sunday, 10 May 2026: 10:30am – 2:30pm
- Sunday, 17 May 2026: 10:30am – 4:30pm (mandatory)
- Friday, 22 May 2026: On-stage dress rehearsal at Melbourne Showgrounds (after 5pm, exact time to be confirmed – mandatory)
Dancers must commit to at least three of the four rehearsals, including both mandatory sessions, and attend at least one of the early May dates if available. Costume fittings will take place conveniently at Studio 7’s retail outlet across the road from the rehearsal venue on 3 and 10 May.
Spark! is open to dancers aged 8 and above, with interstate participants warmly welcomed (though all rehearsals are Melbourne-based). There is no additional cost to join, participation is included for those holding a VDF weekend pass, making this an accessible highlight of the festival experience.
To be eligible and selected, applicants must hold a valid VDF weekend ticket and complete the full application form. Acceptance is at the discretion of the Spark! team, including VDF Directors and Studio 7 representatives. Dancers are expected to learn the provided choreography in advance and consent to professional filming during rehearsals and performance for promotional use by VDF and Studio 7 Dancewear.
Family and friends wishing to cheer on the performers at Ignite 26 will need to purchase separate tickets.
Don’t miss this incredible chance to be part of something truly special! Visit the Spark! page on the VDF website for full details, rehearsal info, and to apply for audition today.
The Victorian Dance Festival 2026 runs 22–24 May at Melbourne Showgrounds – Australia’s largest and most inclusive dance celebration. Come dance with us!
Photo courtesy VDF