Embedded Files
Photo - Laura Mumby
The Contemporary Ballet Choreographer initiative aims to support emerging and established creative voices by providing a platform for the presentation of new choreographic work.
Choreographers may submit pieces in one or more of the following categories: Neo-Classical, Contemporary Ballet, and Contemporary. Multiple submissions are welcome.
There are no age restrictions or experience requirements—both students and professionals are encouraged to apply. There are also no limitations on group size or the duration of the choreography.
Please note: to be considered for progression to Stage Two, submissions must meet specific eligibility criteria.
Stage One: Video Submission
Stage One: Video Submission
Choreographers are invited to submit their work via a streaming platform such as YouTube or Vimeo. Each submission will be assessed by a panel of expert adjudicators, with evaluation focused solely on the choreography itself.
Key criteria include:
Use of levels, space, and direction
Development of motif and choreographic structure
Originality and innovation
Integration and interpretation of sound or music
Please note: dancer ability is not a factor in the adjudication process. The focus is entirely on the choreographic content.
Award Categories
Award Categories
Gold – Exceptional use of choreographic elements and interpretation of the genre
Silver – Excellent use of choreographic elements and interpretation of the genre
Bronze – Good use of choreographic elements and interpretation of the genre
Choreographers receiving a Gold, Silver, or Bronze distinction will be:
Featured on our social media platforms
Included in the digital programme and presentation (live or video) at the Contemporary Ballet Artist Finals
Please note: no financial awards or expense reimbursements are available for choreographers who choose to present their work live in Scotland.
Stage Two
Live Performance
One solo, with a duration of between 1 minute 30 seconds and 2 minutes 30 seconds, will be selected to progress to Stage Two. This work will be performed by competitors taking part in the Contemporary Ballet Artist (CBA) event.
The choreographer of the selected solo will receive a financial award and will be invited to lead paid group coaching sessions to support the artistic integrity of their piece.
Travel expenses for coaching sessions will be covered for journeys within the UK.
Categories
Our definitions and what we are looking for
Neo-Classical/Modern Ballet
Uses classical ballet techniques and steps in a new and innovative way. The choreography is likely to be danced en pointe, use turned-out, and emphasise verticality. Generally work in this section will include a traditional vocabulary of classical ballet steps.
Contemporary Ballet
Combines contemporary and classical techniques and steps to create a unique style. The choreography could include pointe, and includes actions of the spine including; verticality, curve, arch, tilt, and twist. It is likely to include both turned-out and parallel, and may include traditional vocabulary from both genres.
Contemporary
Contemporary choreography uses traditional contemporary techniques such as actions of the spine; curve, arch, tilt, and twist. Actions of weight and energy; falling, moving in and out of the floor, and expansive travelling. Plus extensive use of parallel and whole-body movement. This genre does not include pointe.
How to enter
2025/26 Registration opens on July 7th and closes on August 4th
Complete the online registration form, and remember to follow the given link to make your payment.
Entries for more than one category must be made separately.
Provisional Schedule
Provisional Schedule
7th July, 2025
Registration opens
4th August, 2025
Deadline for all submissions
1st September, 2025
Medal winners announced
November, 2025
Coaching sessions with CBA dancers
November, 2025
Coaching sessions with CBA dancers online
14th February, 2026
Stage 2 live performances
Page updated
Report abuse