Organizer Information

Rotterdam International Duet Choreography Competition (RIDCC) is an internationally recognized annual dance platform and festival based in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, dedicated to identifying and showcasing emerging choreographic voices in contemporary dance. It provides a stage for duet choreographies from around the world and includes a professional development programme featuring workshops, masterclasses, coaching, and networking opportunities. RIDCC collaborates with leading dance organisations such as Scapino Ballet Rotterdam, Dutch National Ballet, Nederlands Dans Theater (NDT), and others to support artistic growth and careers in the dance field.

Title & Description

RIDCC 2026 – Rotterdam International Duet Choreography Competition
RIDCC is a premier annual competition that invites talented choreographers globally to submit an original duet (duration 7–12 minutes). 16 selected participants will present their works live during the event (June 18–20, 2026) at Theater Zuidplein in Rotterdam. Works should be unpublished prior to recent years and can be in any dance style — from contemporary and experimental to cross-disciplinary movement practices. Artists will perform live on stage to audiences and livestream viewers worldwide. Participants also engage in a multi-day professional development programme designed to foster artistic growth and connectivity within the global dance community. The competition culminates with grand prizes and partner awards that often include residencies, creative projects, and production opportunities.

Categories

  • Dance
  • Choreography
  • Performance
  • Professional development (workshops, masterclasses, coaching) (Though focused on dance, the open call may appeal to interdisciplinary performers and movement artists.)

Eligibility

  • International choreographers of all nationalities may apply.
  • Open to choreographers at any career stage (emerging to professional).
  • Duet must be a newly created work (not premiered before Spring 2022 for the 2026 edition).
  • Applicants can be part of the performance themselves or collaborate with performers.
  • No age or residency restrictions specified, beyond the duet requirements.

Program Benefits & Awards

  • Live performance on an international stage in Rotterdam.
  • Inclusion in RIDCC’s professional development programme with workshops, masterclasses, coaching, and networking opportunities.
  • Exposure to global audiences through in-theatre and livestream presentation.
  • XL Production Award — features creation of a new, autonomous work with Scapino Ballet Rotterdam including professional production support and potentially a tour.
  • Partner Awards — tailored opportunities with international partners (residencies, collaborations, project development).
  • Audience Award — recognition chosen by public vote.
Financial & Logistic Support:
  • Accommodation covered (hotel including breakfast) during the competition days for choreographers and dancers.
  • Travel reimbursement is provided:
    • Up to €250 per person within Europe.
    • Up to €300 per person outside Europe (under ~5,000 km).
    • Up to €500 per person for distances over ~5,000 km.
  • RIDCC encourages sustainable travel methods.

Application Fee

None

Application Requirements

Applicants are generally expected to submit:
  • A registration form (online).
  • Video submission of the complete duet (not a trailer) — usually required for selection.
  • Artist/choreographer biography or CV.
  • Supporting information about the duet concept / artistic statement.

How to Apply?

Online Application

Key Dates

  • Application Deadline: 1 March 2026
  • Participant Announcements: Expected in mid-April 2026
  • Event Dates: 18–20 June 2026 (performance & awards).

Location

Theater Zuidplein, Rotterdam, Netherlands

Additional Details

  • RIDCC places emphasis on diversity, innovation, and cross-style creativity in contemporary choreography.
  • Selected participants engage in workshops, personal feedback sessions, masterclasses, and networking events beyond the competition itself.
  • RIDCC’s professional network includes major Dutch and international dance institutions, offering visibility and future collaboration chances.

Website Link: https://www.ridcc.com/