Lila Dance Festival
August 23rd, 2025The LILA Dance Festival is a vibrant celebration of dance, creativity, and community held annually in Rochester, New Hampshire. This free festival is a living representation of the mission of LILA Productions, which aims to create a more inclusive, diverse, and accessible arts community. The festival brings together talented dancers, choreographers, and artists from around the world to showcase inspiring dance performances and interactive workshops.
Committed to inclusivity and artistic growth, the LILA Dance Festival fosters a sense of community and highlights the transformative power of dance. Whether you’re an avid dance fan or new to the art form, the festival offers something for everyone. Join us for an unforgettable experience that connects people, celebrates artistic expression, and supports the growth of the dance world. This unique event provides a vibrant platform for all to enjoy—and it’s completely free to attend!
Applications
We are excited to welcome dance companies, studios, groups, and individual choreographers to apply for performance opportunities at the LILA Dance Festival! This festival celebrates a diverse range of dance styles and artists, offering a platform for performers at all stages of their careers.
Our streamlined application process ensures you’ll only answer the questions that are relevant to your category. Whether you’re a studio showcasing your dancers, a company presenting professional work, a group seeking performance opportunities, or an independent choreographer developing new work, we encourage you to apply!
Application Deadline: May 12, 2025
Notification Date: June 2, 2025
Performance Opportunities
Applicants will be considered for placement in one of the following festival performances:
LILA Connections
A performance celebrating collaboration across all levels, featuring community and student dancers, as well as dance companies whose work aligns with the festival’s spirit of inclusivity. This program highlights diverse styles and fosters engagement, with opportunities for audience interaction and choreographer interviews.
LILA Emergence
A platform for artistic growth and innovation. This performance features both emerging artists and established choreographers or dance companies developing new work, or those working with emerging dancers. The focus is on creative exploration and pushing artistic boundaries.
LILA MainStage
This premier performance features top-tier companies and choreographers presenting fully developed works. Spots are limited and participation is selective.
How We Select Performances
All applications will be reviewed by our selection panel, consisting of industry professionals including choreographers, dancers, and dance educators. The panel will evaluate each application based on artistic quality, relevance to the festival’s mission, and programming needs. While we consider experience level, we also place equal importance on the uniqueness and creativity of your work. Placement decisions are final, and we appreciate your understanding.
Introducing LiLaB Residencies!
We are thrilled to offer LiLaB Residencies for choreographers and artists seeking time, space, and resources to develop new work. These residencies allow for in-depth creative exploration in collaboration with the LILA Dance Festival. Learn More
LILA Dancer Open Call
Would you like to dance for our guest choreographer or LiLaB Resident choreographers?
Information and applications coming soon!
LILA Dance Festival Application FAQ
Who can apply to perform?
The festival is intended for pre-professional dancers, advanced students, and professionals. We may consider beginner-level adult or cultural groups, but performances featuring young children or beginners outside those categories will not be accepted.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline for applications is May 12, 2025. This date allows us to promote and plan the festival in a timely manner. Please ensure that all required materials are submitted by this date.
How are performances selected and placed in the show?
Our selection panel reviews all applications and places performances into categories based on artistic vision, alignment with the festival’s mission, and available space. Please note that decisions made by the selection panel are final and non-negotiable.
When will I hear back about my application?
You will be notified about your participation status by June 2, 2025. The notification will include details about your placement and next steps.
What category should I apply under?
Here are the categories available for application:
- Dance Company: A professional company with trained dancers that regularly performs and presents work.
- Dance Studio: A school or training center that provides dance education and presents student performances.
- Dance Group or Collective: An independent ensemble, community group, or informal collective that does not operate as a formal studio or company.
- Individual Choreographer: A choreographer applying independently to present their work with dancers they provide.
Does the piece need to be completed? Do you accept works in progress?
Dance Studios: Only the dance styles you plan to present need to be specified at the time of application. Once selected, a deadline for music submission will be given, at which point you’ll confirm your final selections. This process helps simplify the casting and scheduling, especially in summer when participant numbers are uncertain.
Other Categories: While we do accept works in progress, we require a detailed description of the work, video samples, and information. Strict deadlines for final casting and music submissions will be enforced.
Can I submit multiple pieces?
Yes, you can submit multiple pieces, but you must submit a separate application for each one. The selection panel will review all submissions and determine the most appropriate placement for each.
Note: Dance studios should submit one application per studio, not separate applications for each piece. In your application, you only need to specify the dance styles you plan to present, rather than listing specific pieces. A deadline for music submission will be provided upon acceptance.
How long should my piece be? Are there time restrictions?
Pieces should be no longer than 10 minutes. If your piece requires more time, additional time may be available upon request. Please list your time request in the application.
Is there free rehearsal space provided?
Free rehearsal space is reserved for Guest Choreographers and LiLaB Residents. All other selected participants can request discounted rehearsal space. Further details will be provided upon acceptance.
Do you offer stipends?
Yes, selected choreographers will receive a stipend to support the creation and production of their work. The stipend amount is based on factors such as the length of the piece and the number of dancers involved.
Are transportation and accommodations provided?
The festival does not provide transportation or accommodations for performers. However, we can offer recommendations for local lodging and transportation options. Additionally, a limited number of travel stipends may be available for out-of-town performers upon request. Please contact us in advance to inquire about these options.
What are the technical specifications of the stage?
The stage is a 28×40 raised stage with marley flooring. There will be two changing tents with space to hang costumes. Basic lighting will be provided for performances after sunset.
What happens if I don’t adhere to the festival guidelines?
Failure to adhere to the festival’s guidelines, including deadlines, rehearsal commitments, and professional conduct, may result in your piece being removed from the festival lineup.