Call For Submissions 

DanceWorks CoWorks Series 2027/28 

Deadline: Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 5PM EST


Notification: January 31,  2027

The DanceWorks CoWorks Series supports independent dance artists and collectives in the self-presentation of their work. Rooted in DanceWorks’ commitment to artistic development and community connection, the CoWorks Series supports emerging and mid-career artists from diverse backgrounds and practices, in sharing new and existing work while benefiting from DanceWorks’ visibility and professional network. Projects in the CoWorks Series are artist-driven and self-produced, with DanceWorks offering in-kind promotional, administrative, and logistical support. All dance forms and interdisciplinary approaches are welcome.

Who Should Apply

We invite proposals from artists and collectives who:

  • Are based in the Greater Toronto Area.

  • Are developing or self-producing a full-length dance work/shared bill for public presentation.  All artists in a shared bill must apply together, and sign a joint contract. 

  • Have a clear artistic vision and production plan.

  • Seek a collaborative relationship with DanceWorks in promotion and community engagement.

CoWorks Artists Receive

  • Marketing and promotional support

  • Administrative and mentorship guidance

  • Listing on DanceWorks’ website and social media channels

  • Access to DanceWorks’ professional network of presenters and partners

  • A one-week (30-hour) creation residency at our CoWorks partner Artists’ Play in Toronto

  • Access to subsidized studio rental rates at Artists’ Play for any additional hours needed

  • $1000 Project Support Fee

Please note: CoWorks projects are self-produced. All production expenses remain the responsibility of the artist or collective.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be reviewed based on:

  • Artistic merit and clarity of vision

  • Feasibility of production and timeline

  • Alignment with DanceWorks’ mandate to support diverse, innovative, and engaged dance practices

  • Potential to broaden audience engagement and community impact

Application Requirements 

Applicants will be asked to provide:

  • Title/Working Title

  • Project Description (500 words maximum)

  • Production Details (production timeline, venue (must be confirmed by March 2027), team, production budget)

  • Artist/Collective Bio (200 words maximum per artist)

  • Audience Engagement and Community Connection - Who do you envision as the audience for your work, and how might your project connect with or engage new or existing audiences and communities? (500 words maximum)

  • Support Materials (Up to two video links of works or works-in-progress. Please provide passwords if applicable.)

  • Preferred Presentation Window (September 2027 – May 2028)

Submission

Please submit as one PDF document.

Send submissions and any questions to: [email protected]