Open Call
We are seeking up to 6 dancers to take part in a 2-week international contemporary dance project in Madeira, Portugal, culminating in a live performance opportunity and the launch NOMADIS Dance Company.
ABOUT THE PROJECT
This project marks the launch of NOMADIS - a contemporary dance company operating nomadically, bringing artists together to create and perform internationally.
This is a work-exchange project and a local-expenses covered performance residency.
It will focus on the creation of a new contemporary dance work and the re-staging of existing contemporary dance repertoire by the resident choreographer. At the end of the 2-week process, the piece will be performed to a live audience.
NOMADIS Dance Company will be launching in tandem with NOMADIS Dance Retreats. We ask that dancers selected for the NOMADIS Dance Company be available to teach a dance masterclass for the retreat, approximately 90 minutes long. An Artist Q&A with NOMADIS Company dancers will also be organised.
The project is led by choreographer Sara Silva. Excerpts of previous work can be viewed HERE.
what we offer*
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Hotel accommodation for the project duration
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Meal provisions to be made possible
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Inclusion in NOMADIS Retreat guest activities
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Dedicated studio and rehearsal space
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Public performance opportunity
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Official company attire/merchandise
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Professional photo/video documentation
In exchange for
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Full commitment and availability for the duration of the residency, including all scheduled rehearsals
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Active participation all company commitments and NOMADIS Retreats events
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Willingness to support the promotion of the project through personal and professional networks where possible
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Consent to photo and video documentation for promotional, archival, and future funding purposes
PROJECT STRUCTURE
Week 1 Creation
• Daily rehearsals (morning and afternoon sessions)
• Movement research and choreographic development
• Team-bonding activities
Week 2 Development & Performance
• Continuation of rehearsals
• Refinement of choreographic material
• NOMADIS Retreat commitments and activities
• Live show
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR
• Dancers with strong contemporary dance technique
• Ability to quickly memorise and retain new choreography
• Comfortable working in an intensive, short-term creation environment
• Experience with partner work and lifts
• Proficiency in English
This opportunity is open to dancers at any career stage. Previous professional experience is not required, but previous teaching experience is favorable.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
By agreeing to take part in this residency, selected artists also agree to participate in the Retreat-related commitments connected to the project.
This includes preparing and teaching one dance masterclass of approximately 90 minutes. Ballet and contemporary dance styles are preferred, though we are open to proposals in other dance styles. Beginner-level adaptations must be included.
Participants are responsible for ensuring they have the correct documentation to travel to Portugal. As this is an expenses-covered residency and not salaried employment, any required short-stay visa, tourist visa, or travel authorisation must be arranged independently by the participant.
Artists must be comfortable sharing a living space.
HOW TO APPLY
Please include the following in your application:
• CV (or relevant experience)
• Link to performance reel
• Description of teaching style and brief lesson plan (and/or optional video of class example)
• A short statement on why you are particularly interested in this project (150 words max.)
Please send applications to: nomadisdance@gmail.com
DATES & LOCATION
📍 Madeira Island, Portugal
📅 8th - 22nd November 2026
🎭 Performance: 20th November 2026
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 31st AUGUST 2026
*As the first edition of an artist-led, independent dance company operating without any outside funding, we are currently unable to provide any financial compensation for participation in this project outside of the previously-mentioned covered expenses.
We are committed to developing NOMADIS as a sustainable practice that is able to provide artist fees, which we hope to achieve after a successful launch.
By applying to participate in this project, applicants confirm that they understand and accept these conditions.
SELECTION PROCESS
01. SUBMISSION
Submit the required information to nomadisdance@gmail.com.
02. REVIEW
We will evaluate all applications against our selection criteria.
Short-listed candidates will be invited for a short online interview.
03. SELECTION
Selected candidates will be invited to participate in our residency.
ALL applicants will be contacted in due course regarding the outcome of their application.