Organizer Information
Klub Żak, based in Gdańsk, Poland, is a municipal cultural institution dedicated to promoting contemporary
dance and supporting performing artists. It hosts the annual Gdańsk Dance Festival, which has become a premier international platform for dancers and choreographers to showcase solo performances, exchange ideas, and engage with audiences.
Title & Description
15th Solo Dance Contest – Open Call 2026
The Solo Dance Contest invites professional dancers and choreographers from Poland and abroad to submit original
solo performances. Selected participants will perform during the 18th Gdańsk Dance Festival (September 14–17, 2026). Solos should be between 5–20 minutes, premiered after June 1, 2024, and will be evaluated by an international jury. The competition aims to highlight innovative contemporary dance, foster international collaboration, and provide opportunities for exposure and recognition.
Categories
Dance, Contemporary Dance, Performance, Solo Performance
Eligibility
- Professional dancers over 18 years of age
- Applicants must have documented artistic activity or a diploma in dance studies
- Open to international participants
- Works must be solo performances submitted by the performer themselves
Program Benefits & Awards
- Total prize pool of EUR 6,000, including:
- Jury-awarded 1st, 2nd, 3rd prizes (EUR 5,500)
- Audience Award (EUR 500)
- Invitation to perform at Klub Żak stage
- Reimbursement of travel costs (up to EUR 180 international, PLN 400 domestic)
- Accommodation and meals during the festival
- Participation in Polish qualifiers may include a performance fee (PLN 450) and support for travel and accommodation
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Completed application form
- Personal information and date of birth
- Short biography and documentation of past projects
- Recording of the solo performance
- Duration and premiere date of the solo
- Solo description, music, and technical requirements
- Photos and proof of professional background
- Agreement to copyright and image rights conditions
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 22 March 2026
- Polish Qualifiers: 18–19 April 2026
- Main Competition & Festival: 14–17 September 2026
Location
Gdańsk, Poland
Additional Details
- Solos must be submitted by the performer; third-party submissions are not accepted
- Premiere date of submitted work must be after 1 June 2024
- Travel reimbursements require receipts
- Participants must comply with all copyright regulations and grant Klub Żak the right to use promotional images and recordings
