Movement Makers: A Choreographers Showcase

August 7-8

Mounarath Powell Dance is pleased to present another installment of Movement Makers: A Choreographers Showcase, returning August 7th and 8th, 2026.

This event celebrates the creative voices of choreographers in all stages of their careers, offering an evening of original works that explore the art of dance and movement. Presented in Mounarath Powell’s intimate black box performance space, the showcase highlights innovation, storytelling, and the power of dance as a shared human experience.

Call for Choreographers

Applications are now open and free of charge.

  • Application Deadline: June 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM
  • Notification of Acceptance: No later than July 7, 2026

Submission Requirements

To apply, please email CHernandez@MPDance.org with:

  • A video or link to the full work you would like to present (rehearsal or performance footage accepted)
  • If the work is new and no video is available, a clear written outline of the piece (video is highly suggested)
  • Length of the piece should be between 4–9 minutes
  • Number of dancers (recommended 2–5)
  • Choreographer name, headshot, and bio
  • Any props used in the work

Rehearsal, Tech & Performance Requirements

  • This is a live performance event; all selected choreographers and performers must be fully available
  • Performances take place at 7:30 PM on August 7–8
  • Tech/dress rehearsals will take place in the evening on Wednesday and Thursday prior to the show (8/5 and 8/6 – time slots TBD)
  • The performance space will be available beginning at 6:15 PM on each show day
  • Performers should arrive no later than 45 minutes prior to showtime (6:45pm) and will need to be backstage for the house to open by 7pm
  • Full commitment is required once accepted.  Choreographer will be required to sign a participation agreement.

Rehearsal space may be reserved at the Mounarath Powell Studio at a discounted rate (contact us with any inquiries).

Acceptance & Required Confirmations

  • Selected choreographers must confirm participation by returning the signed participation agreement no later than July 11, 2026 including tech/dress rehearsal requirements
  • Failure to confirm by this date may result in forfeiture of participation

Quick Timeline

June 2026

  • June 30 → Application Deadline

July 2026

  • July 7 → Acceptance Notifications
  • July 11 → Participation Confirmations Due
  • July 20 → Music Submission Deadline
  • July 27 → Lighting Cue Sheets + Program Info Due

August 2026

  • August 5–6 → Tech & Dress Rehearsals
  • August 7–8 → Performances at 7:30 PM

Eligibility & Guidelines

  • Open to choreographers and performers ages 18+ – all performers and choreographers must be at least 18 years old
  • Piece length should be between 4–9 minutes
  • Recommended cast size: 2–5 dancers
  • Submitted work should not include blatant profanity or nudity
  • Artists are responsible for their own costumes and props
  • All props must be clearly noted in the submission
  • The following are not permitted: glitter, confetti, fog, fire, projections, or any materials that create mess or strong odor

Acceptance Criteria

All submissions will be reviewed by Mounarath Powell Dance based on the following considerations:

  • Artistic clarity and intention
  • Strength of choreographic voice and originality
  • Readiness for performance in a shared showcase setting
  • Feasibility within production parameters and technical limitations
  • Professional preparedness and reliability
  • Overall program balance and curation

Selection is curated and not based on a scoring system. The goal is to present a diverse and cohesive evening of choreographic work.  If your work is not selected this year, please consider applying again next time!

Technical Information

  • Music must be submitted in MP3 format by July 20, 2026 via email (CHernandez@MPDance.org)
    • Music should be all on one track and so we can hit “play” and it will start and end correctly without the need to manually fade out.
  • A lighting cue sheet will be provided for selected choreographers and due by July 27, 2026
    • Cue sheets not received by the above date will receive a basic wash light cue for the full piece
  • The following program items are also due no later than July 27, 2026
    • Piece title
    • Choreographer name
    • Dancer names
    • Music artist/song
    • Any other pertinent show information

Tickets & Audience

  • Tickets will be available for purchase, and a link will be sent out closer to the show
  • Choreographers may attend as audience members for free if not performing
  • Dancers are to stay backstage throughout the whole show and will be guided to a final curtain bow as a full group

Additional Information

  • Participation is voluntary; Mounarath Powell Dance does not provide compensation for time or travel
  • Choreographers will receive a video recording of their work from the performance
  • Selected participants (choreographers and dancers) must sign a general waiver
  • Application and participation indicate consent for photo and video documentation to be used for promotional purposes
  • Choreographers are responsible for securing rights to all music used
  • All participants are expected to maintain a respectful and professional working environment