Seven weeks embedded with two professional companies Marcat and VIM VIGOR: offering diverse technique classes, new creations / performances, compositional mentorship, and workshops and auditions with: New Dialect, South Chicago Dance Theatre and LED Boise.
Where: Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
When: May 12 – June 27, 2025
Deadline for applications: April 18, 2025
MMPP: Upending the training model of high costs and short time-frames, this rigorous program provides gifted dancers seven weeks of physical practice training, professional creation processes culminating in performance, compositional mentorship, auditions and interactions with active companies in the US, and additional networking opportunities. Post pandemic, the dance landscape has shifted from singular coastal city hubs to robust companies, institutions and resources for rich and fulfilling careers across the US. MMPP champions Midwest talent, supporting artists 18+ seeking to advance the skills and experience necessary to thrive in the dance field, as well as networking opportunities and auditions with celebrated Midwest companies each year.
In 2025, VIM VIGOR, an internationally renowned dance theater company and in-house company at the University of Michigan led by Shannon Gillen and Jason Cianciulli, will be joined by MARCAT, the artistic home for award-winning Spanish choreographer Mario Bermudez Gil and American co-founder Catherine Coury. Together VIM VIGOR and MARCAT will lead, nurture and inspire a select group of exceptional dancers.
* Programming from 9am to 5pm daily, with evening research hours and Saturday workshops / auditions.
* Rigorous and diverse physical training, somatic and cross training practices.
* The creation of four original works. Participants will have the opportunity to be in two new works allowing them to be in exchange with both choreographers who are active in the professional world. All works are filmed.
* Compositional mentorship for participants throughout the program with final creations being shared and filmed.
* Additional networking with national companies and artists through showings, talk backs, workshops, auditions and professional development seminars.
* This program culminates in outward facing performances, free and open to the public.
How to register:
Those wishing to participate in the Michigan Movement Performance Projects should submit the following at:
https://smtd.umich.edu/engagement-outreach/adult-programs/michigan-movement-performance-projects/
* A professional resume
* 2-3 minute audition video of you moving (no short clips)
* Applicants should be aware that there is a non-refundable $35 application fee in addition to the program’s tuition cost.
There will be no in-person audition for this program, so please share footage that best represents you. Please note, that dancers must be at least 18 years old, but that there is no age limit. All participants should be advised that this is advanced and immersive professional training, and while we accept and value a range of experience, expect to be challenged every day.
Please email shgillen@umich.edu if you have any questions regarding the application process.
Costs for participants: $3200 USD ($457 per week)
Contact details:
Office of Engagement & Outreach-Youth & Adult Programs
University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance
Stearns Building │ 2005 Baits Drive │ Ann Arbor, MI 48109
Phone: 734-936-2660
Email: smtd-youthandadult@umich.edu
Additionally, please email shgillen@umich.edu if you have any questions regarding the application process.
For further information, please visit https://smtd.umich.edu/engagement-outreach/adult-programs/michigan-movement-performance-projects/
For more dance INTENSIVES, visit https://dancingopportunities.com/category/dance-intensives/
