We are excited to announce the LiLaB Residency Program, an evolved initiative at the LILA Dance Festival designed to provide choreographers with the resources to develop and present original work. Building on past successes, this program offers selected artists paid dancers, rehearsal space, and a professional platform to showcase their work. 

What We Offer:

• A newly refined opportunity for choreographers to develop original work.
• Paid dancers provided through the LILA open dancer call.
• 15-20 hours of rehearsal space over eight weeks to develop the work.
• Professional performance photos and video of the final presentation.
• The premiere of the new work in the LILA MainStage performance.
• A stipend to help support the creation and production of the work

Applicant Guidelines: This opportunity is open to choreographers of all backgrounds and dance styles, and up to three choreographers will be selected for the residency. Applicants should have a clear artistic vision and the ability to work with provided dancers. Works should be between 5-10 minutes in length, and preference will be given to regional choreographers. Please note that choreographers should have the ability to manage the rehearsal process, work collaboratively with dancers, and demonstrate professionalism in both their creative work and interactions with the team. All rehearsals will be held at the LILA Studios in Rochester, NH. Choreographers will be responsible for their own transportation.

How to Apply: Choreographers must submit the following through the application form (linked below).

• A project proposal outlining the concept, movement style, and number of dancers.
• Video samples of past work.
• A video sample of proposed movement for the new piece (ideally showcasing choreography that aligns with the work being proposed).
• A preliminary rehearsal and production plan.

Application Review: Applications will be reviewed by the LiLaB Selection Panel, which will consider:

• The artistic vision and movement style of the proposed work.
• The clarity of the project proposal and its alignment with the festival’s mission and overall programming.
• The quality, creativity, and professionalism of the applicant’s previous work.
• The ability to work with provided dancers and the feasibility of the proposed rehearsal and production plan.

Application Deadline: 05/12/2025