Thank you for your interest in New Dances 2023, the 40th Anniversary of New Dances in Chicago!

DanceWorks Chicago and Thodos Dance Chicago are excited to collaborate on New Dances 2023 and continue a shared tradition of serving Chicago’s dance community. Originating with Chicago Repertory Dance Ensemble, New Dances has been part of Chicago’s dance history for 40 years, offering a platform for early career choreographers to create new work with artistic, logistic, and financial support.

ATTENTION DANCEMAKERS: Chicago and Chicagoland-based emerging and mid-career choreographers working in any dance genre(s) are invited to apply to create new work to be produced in New Dances 2023. Classes, rehearsals, and performances will take place from June 5-24, during Chicago Dance Month.

Application DO DATE:  noon (Central time) on Wednesday, March 1. No exceptions.

• New Dances 2023 is dedicated to creating a safe space for artists, and in that spirit, fully vaccinated individuals, as defined by the most up-to-date CDC guidelines, are invited to apply. Providing proof of vaccination will be part of the application process.
• As New Dances is focused on supporting artists who have made a commitment to the Chicago community, please respect the residency requirement: Choreographer must reside in Chicago or a suburb of Chicago as of March 1, 2023.
• Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.

QUESTIONS? Check out our FAQ guide HERE!

Melissa Thodos, Artistic Director Thodos Dance Chicago, and Julie Nakagawa, Artistic Director DanceWorks Chicago, will assess applications, and invitations will be extended to a select group of choreographers.  Each applicant will hear back regarding the status of their application by Wednesday, March 15.

We look forward to getting to know you and your work!

The application portal is OPEN.

This program is partially supported by grants from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and the Illinois Arts Council Agency.