Presenting Denver Dance Festival

DEADLINE: Submissions are accepted between June 1- July 31, 2019 at midnight MST. Late submissions will not be considered, including submission and non-refundable application fees received after the submission date has passed. Accepted pieces will be a part of the 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival taking place on June 20-21, 2020.

Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts are seeking world premieres of new and original dance/choreography solos, duets, group, and interactive/immersive dance performance with a maximum of 10 performers to be performed live at the 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival. We are seeking submissions in all dance genres and dance forms. Applicants and performers must be Colorado residents ages 18 years or older living in the state of Colorado. Regrettably, we are unable to consider submissions for aerial dance at this point in time.

Selected Artists will be invited to perform new works on the Main Stage or Public Stage. Jurors will view the applicant name, company name (if applicable), the previous work examples, new work description, dance genre(s), anticipated number of dancers, and anticipated length of work. Invitations to perform at the Dance Festival are based on the overall juror ranking.

We are accepting one application per Artist per category. Artists may complete both the New Work and Community Presentation applications, but the applications must be for different presentations. Selected applicants will be invited to participate in one category only.

Our audience spans a wide variety of ages and cultures. Please be mindful of the content you choose to submit. Sexually suggestive content, costumes, or simulated violence may offend some audience members. Due to the expected attendance of children, nudity and profanity will not be permitted.

APPLICATION

To apply, complete the “2020 New Work Application” and include the following information:

• Primary Contact Information:
  • Presenting Denver communicates primarily through email. Provide the contact information of your main point of contact.
• Previous Work Examples:
  • Submit electronically 2 previous work examples in a non-password protected link.
  • Each previous work example should be no more than 10 minutes in length per link. Jurors may only be viewing up to 2 minutes of the video submissions.
  • Do not submit video reels or dance for the camera.
  • Do not send any personal notes, links, directions, or documents for the jurors to review as part of your application.
  • Previous work examples can be an excerpt of a full length work.
  • It is not required that the dancers in the work example are the performers that will be in the festival. If selected, it is required that the performance capability of the dancers you work with is comparable.
  • The previous work examples are to give the jurors an idea of what a completed new work in the Dance Festival may look like if you are selected.
• New Work Description:
  • Artists may submit 1 new work description for consideration as part of the 2020 Dance Festival. Please submit a short, one paragraph description of your piece which includes a narrative about the theme/concept of the overall work. If your piece includes audience interaction, participation or immersion, please note that in the description.
  • Do not send any personal notes, links, directions, or documents for the jurors to review as part of your application.
  • Pieces must be no more than 10 minutes long and no less that 5 minutes long at completion.
  • All Artists must have the usage rights to the music or sound.
  • Small props may be used in choreography, but sets are not permitted. All props are subject to approval by Presenting Denver.
  • Pieces may have a maximum of 10 performers.
  • All choreography for the Presenting Denver Dance Festival must be new and may not include works previously presented in other contexts or be extensions of an existing concept, project, or choreographic work. The new work must be a stand alone piece of choreography.
• Dance Genre(s) of New Work
  • Please list the dance genres of your new work.
• Anticipated Number of Dancers in New Work
  • Pieces may have a maximum of 10 performers.
• Anticipated Length of New Work
  • Pieces must be no more than 10 minutes long and no less that 5 minutes long at completion.
• Additional Questions: Please note the answers to these questions will not impact your application. Jurors will not be reviewing this information.
  • Master Classes: Six master classes will take place during Dance Festival weekend. Please notate on your application if you would like to be considered to teach a master class. Individuals selected will be required to complete a background check. At the discretion of Presenting Denver, instructors will be invited based on the teaching background, dance genre, ability to teach a variety of ages, levels, and backgrounds. Invited instructors will only be from selected the new works Main Stage or Public Stage choreographers.
  • Pre/Post Show Talk: Please notate on your application if you or your performers would like to be considered to take part in a pre or post show talk. Invited Artists will be at the discretion of The Dance Archive (formally Carson Brierly Giffin Dance Library) based on topics and backgrounds. Invitations will only be from selected Main Stage or Public Stage new work choreographers or performers.
  • Community Audition: Presenting Denver is considering hosting a Community Audition for selected festival choreographers that may need dancers. Please notate in your application if you would be interested in participating in a community audition.
• Application Fee:
  • There is a non-refundable application fee of $25 per application.
  • The application fee can be paid online, by selecting the button called “Pay Application Fee”,  or by mailing a check, cashier’s check, or money order to Presenting Denver, 925 Lincoln Street, Unit 14G, Denver, CO 80203. Cash will not be accepted.
  • Make check to “Presenting Denver” and in the memo line write “PDDF Application Fee”.
  • If the non-refundable application fee is unpaid by the call for submission deadline at midnight MST your application will not be considered.

COMPENSATION

• Artists selected to be a part of the 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival will be paid a stipend as notated below. The stipend reflects the total involvement in the Presenting Denver Dance Festival, including but not limited to required orientation and meet and greet, choreographer interview, Marketing/PR/Promotion, tech dates, dress rehearsal, and concert performances as specified by Presenting Denver.
  • Main Stage Showcase: $1650.00 stipend per group.
  • Public Stage Showcase: $500.00 stipend per group.
• The above stipends reflect a per group rate and are for the total involvement of the 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival, not a per performance or per day stipend. It is the responsibility of the Artist contracted for the 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival to disburse the funds among their performers as they see fit and provide any tax documents related to the disbursement of those funds to those performers.
• Selected Artists will be required to complete a W-9 for Presenting Denver.
• As part of the stipend, each choreographer for the Main Stage Showcase and Public Stage Showcase will be required to participate in an online question and answer interview for In The Spotlight.
• As part of the stipend, Artists may be asked to participate in additional PR/Promotional activities.
• Master Classes: Selected teachers will be compensated a stipend of $100.00 for one 80 minute class held during the Dance Festival dates. Individuals selected will be required to complete a background check. One teacher will be selected per class.
• Pre/Post Show Talk: Selected Artists will be compensated a stipend of $50.00 per group for one 30 minute talk back held during the Dance Festival dates.

MARKETING REQUIREMENTS

• All selected Artists will be required to supply Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts with photos and video for marketing and promotional purposes in the format determined by Presenting Denver. Please be advised that by providing images to Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts for its use on its website, email marketing, social media, and any other marketing channels it may employ, you acknowledge and attest that you or your organization have obtained the correct and appropriate usage release rights from your photographer(s), dancer(s)/model(s) and any other professional to release the images to Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts, and that you will indemnify Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts against any and all claims, actions, demands, or suits that may arise from the use and distribution of such images by Presenting Denver or The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts. Images with watermarks will not be considered. Photo/film credits must be provided.
• All participating Artists will be required to complete a photo/film release form for all photo imagery or film taken by Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts, our volunteers or affiliates. Artists will not be able to use this content for their personal or professional purposes after the Dance Festival.
• All participating Artists and performers may be asked to do additional PR and other promotional activities as needed to assist in the promotion of the Dance Festival.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

• Accepts Electronic Submissions: Yes
• Accepts Mail Submissions: No
• Accepts Simultaneous Submissions: No
• Application Review Period: August 1-August 14, 2019
• Juror Reviewing Period: August 15-September 15, 2019
• Juror Conflict Resolution: September 15- September 30, 2019
• Notification: Selected Artists will be notified by December 31, 2019
• Seven (7) Artists will be selected for the Main Stage Showcase.
• Six (6) Artists will be selected for the Public Stage Showcase.
• Insurance: All selected Artists will be required to present proof of General Liability insurance if accepted to be a part of the 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival. Artist must add Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts/University of Denver as an additional insureds on your policy and provide a certificate of insurance as proof of coverage. View Presenting Denver’s insurance requirements here.
• Release Forms: All selected Artists will be required to provide Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts with a signed release of liability waiver and photo/film release form from all participants in your group.
• Contracts: All selected Artists will be required to review and sign a contract provided by Presenting Denver. Changes to the contract will not be considered.
• Music/Sound: It is the responsibility of the Artist to acquire rights to use all live or recorded music or sound.
• Audience Interaction/Participation: If audience participation or interaction is involved in the presentation, the Artist must notify Presenting Denver. Adjustments may need to be made based on risk of injury or liability. Artist and performers will be required to complete a background check if interacting with minors.
• All selected 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival Artists in the Main Stage Showcase will be required to sell 15 full price tickets per group to the Presenting Denver Dance Festival. Unsold tickets will be deducted from the total stipend.
• All travel, transportation, food, drink, and other accommodations or fees are the responsibility of the Artists, not Presenting Denver or The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts.
• Any and all other costs associated with participation in the Presenting Denver Dance Festival, including but not limited to rehearsals, costuming, music/sound and any other pre-production or post-production elements to execute your performance, are the responsibility of the Artists, not Presenting Denver or The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts.

Be sure to reference the Submission Guidelines, Technical Specifications, Judging Criteria, Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) prior to submitting your application.  If you have questions, please email Presenting Denver at info@presentingdenver.org.

*Information is subject to change.

The following criteria will be what the jurors refer to when considering works based on your previous work examples and new work description. Please note each category will be weighted as outlined below.

• Diversity (50%) – Diversity of dance styles, technique, theme, and music.
• Craft (25%) – Thoughtfulness in movement invention and choreographic manipulation, use of sound, crafting of space, time, and energy, and development of theme, approach, and/or subject matter.
• Artistry (25%) – Innovation in craftsmanship, dancers’ technical prowess, dancers’ performance quality, dancers’ musicality, creative staging and use of space, production elements, audience connection, performance precision, inventiveness of choreography, artistic excellence and overall execution.

*Information is subject to change.

Main Stage Showcase:

• Venue: The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts, Byron Theatre located at 2344 E Iliff Ave, Denver, CO 80210.
• Dressing Rooms: Group dressing rooms will be provided.
• Warm-up area: Group rehearsal studio with marley floor and mirrors.
• Freight Elevator: Yes
• Stage Size: 26 ft long x 21 ft deep
• Floor Type: Resilient stage floor with marley. For tap, flamenco, Irish step, or other dance forms requiring alternative flooring, supplying the alternative flooring will be the responsibility and cost of the Artist. The alternative flooring must be easily portable, nonpermanent, and mobile enough to be set up and taken down in a matter of minutes. Alternative flooring is subject to approval by Presenting Denver.
• Stage Elements: This is a flexible theater space with no front of house curtain. The space will have a crossover, stage right exit with a step up to exit (1), a center stage exit (1) and a stage left exit (1). If selected for the festival a diagram of the stage will be provided to you.
• Accommodate Aerial Dance: No
• Video Projector: No
• Screen: No
• Sets Allowed: No
• Props Allowed: Yes. Small props only. Props may not include liquid, organic, sharp, or harsh materials that may damage the stage or create an unsafe environment for performers. All props are subject to approval.
• Lighting: A general lighting plot will be provided prior to tech. Special lighting or technical needs will not be provided by Presenting Denver or The Newman Center for the Performing Arts. Each group will be limited to a maximum of 8 cues total.
• Sound System: Sound system with capability of playing CDs and audio files.
• Live Music: If live music is being used, Presenting Denver and the Newman Center for the Performing Arts will provide electricity, but it is the responsibility of the Artist to provide all equipment and cover any additional production costs.
• Piano: If needed, an upright piano will be available for use during the performance.
• Additional Technical Needs: Any additional production needs and/or costs are the responsibility of the Artist. Presenting Denver and The Newman Center for the Performing Arts will accommodate these requests to the best of our ability, but Artists should recognize that not all requests will be met.

Public Stage Showcase:

The Public Stage Showcase will take place outdoors. If weather is an issue, the performance will be moved indoors. Both specifications are given to you below.

• Location: Outdoor area on the University of Denver Campus.
• Stage Size: If outdoors, 32 ft long x 32 ft deep. If indoors, 26 ft long x 21 deep.
• Stage Type: If outdoors, the performance space will be on a mobile stage with marley. If indoors, the performance will be on a wood floor covered with marley. For tap, flamenco, Irish step, or other dance forms requiring alternative flooring, supplying the alternative flooring will be the responsibility and cost of the Artist. The alternative flooring must be easily portable, nonpermanent, and mobile enough to be set up and taken down in a matter of minutes. Alternative flooring is subject to approval by Presenting Denver.
• Warm-up area: Indoor group rehearsal studio with marley floor and mirrors.
• Sets Allowed: No
• Props Allowed: Yes. Small props only. Props may not include liquid, organic, sharp, or harsh materials that may damage the stage or create an unsafe environment for performers. All props are subject to approval.
• Lighting: None
• Sound System: Portable sound system with capability of playing CDs and audio files.
• Stage Elements: Mobile stage with roof, two sets of stairs, and handrail. No front of house curtain, backdrop, crossover or wings.  This will be a non-traditional, open performance space. Performers will be seen at all times.
• Accommodate Aerial Dance: No
• Live Music: We can not accommodate live music.
• Additional Technical Needs: No additional technical request will be considered for this performance.

*Information is subject to change.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts are seeking new and original dance choreography from Colorado residents ages 18 years or older living in the state of Colorado. Selected new works will premiere live at the 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival.

NEW WORKS

What is a New Work Concept Description?

A New Work Description is a short, one paragraph description of the piece you hope to create if you are chosen to perform in the Main Stage or Public Stage Showcase of the Presenting Denver Dance Festival.

This means that if you are selected to present a new work for the Main Stage or Public Stage that you would not perform the work you submit in your application for the New Work Description as part of your current season or other performances or informal showings prior to the Dance Festival. The work presented at the Event needs to be a stand alone work. The piece can not include works previously presented in other contexts.

The New Work Description cannot be a work that is an extension of a previously created work, an excerpt of a previously created work, or a new interpretation of a previously created work. You are starting with a new idea, on a new project that would be specifically made for the 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival.

What is a world premiere?

If you are selected for the Main Stage or Public Stage Showcase, the piece you create for the Event will premiere for the first time at the 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival. The piece can not include works previously presented in other contexts, including online and on social media. The work presented at the Event needs to be a stand alone work.

You would be creating a piece that is specifically made for the Presenting Denver Dance Festival. This means that if you are selected for the Main Stage or Public Stage that you would not perform the work you submit in your application for the New Work Description as part of your season or other performances or informal showings prior to the Dance Festival.

Do applicants and choreographers have to be Colorado residents?

Yes. All applicants and choreographers must be Colorado residents ages 18 years or older living in the state of Colorado.

Do performers have to be Colorado residents?

Yes. All performers must be Colorado residents ages 18 years or older living in the state of Colorado.

Can performers be under the age of 18 years?

No. All performers must be Colorado residents ages 18 years or older living in the state of Colorado.

Can I submit a collaborative piece for the New Work Concept?

Yes, as long as the piece meets the submission requirements. All applicants, collaborators, choreographers and performers must be Colorado residents ages 18 years or older living in the state of Colorado.

If I am selected for the Presenting Denver Dance Festival, can I perform my piece after the Dance Festival has come to an end?

Yes, if you are selected for the Presenting Denver Dance Festival, you can perform your piece after the completion of the Dance Festival Event.

If I am selected for the Presenting Denver Dance Festival, how long can my piece be?

Pieces must be no more than 10 minutes long and no less than 5 minutes long at completion. We will not be considering excerpts or sections of longer works for those selected for the Main Stage or Public Stage showcases. It should be a stand alone work.

How many dancers can I have in my piece?

Pieces can have a maximum of 10 performers.

Can my new work be a part of a longer piece before or after the Dance Festival?

No. All choreography for the Event must be a new work and may not include works previously presented in other contexts.

Can my New Work be a restaged piece that is choreographed by someone else?

No. The work must be original choreography.

Can my New Work be a piece I am already working on or have worked on in the past?

No. The New Work cannot be a work that is an extension of a previously created work, an excerpt of a previously created work, or a new interpretation of a previously created work. You are starting with a new idea, on a new project that would be specifically made for the 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival.

PREVIOUS WORK EXAMPLES

Do my previous work examples have to be formal concert pieces? Can I submit a performance reel? Can I submit a dance for the camera piece?

We highly encourage the previous work examples include lighting, sound, costuming, etc. to best correlate to our judging criteria. The previous work examples do not have to be formal concert pieces. The previous work examples are to give the jurors an idea of what a completed new work in the Dance Festival may look like if you are chosen for the Dance Festival. Please note that jurors may only be viewing up to 2 minutes of the video submissions.

Do not submit performance reels or dance for the camera works. These will not be considered.

What if my previous work examples are longer than 10 minutes?

Please submit a previous work examples that are no longer than 10 minutes. Please edit down to the section of a longer work that you would like the jurors to see. Please note that jurors may only be viewing up to 2 minutes of the video submissions. We suggest that you submit previous work examples that will best correlate to our judging criteria.

What if I don’t know how to edit down my previous work example to 10 minutes?

Below are some free websites that may be able to help you edit your video. Presenting Denver does not endorse these companies. We suggest that you investigate all your options.

• https://online-video-cutter.com/
• https://ezgif.com/cut-video
• https://cutvideo.online/

Should my previous work examples be excerpts or full performances?

This is up to the applicant. We recommend full performances, but that is not required. We suggest that you submit previous work examples that will best correlate to our judging criteria. Please note that jurors may only be viewing up to 2 minutes of the video submissions.

What if I don’t have a professional previous work examples? Can I submit a video of phrase work of me and/or my dancers working in the studio?
Yes. We suggest that you submit previous work examples that will best correlate to our judging criteria. Please note that jurors may only be viewing up to 2 minutes of the video submissions.

How current does my previous work example need to be?
This is up to the applicant. We suggest that you submit previous work examples that will best correlate to our judging criteria. Please note that the jurors may only be viewing up to 2 minutes of the video submissions.  

Do my dancers need to be the dancers in the previous work example videos?
No. It is not required that the dancers in the previous work examples are the performing artists that will be in the showing, but it is required that the performance capability of the dancers you work with, if chosen for the showing, is comparable.

What types of links can I submit for my previous work examples?

Please submit non-password protected public links.

Can I submit my previous work examples in another format like a DVD?

No.

MUSIC/SOUND

Do I need to have usage rights to the music or sound?

Yes. If selected for the Presenting Denver Dance Festival, it is the responsibility of the artist to acquire rights to use all live or recorded music or sound.

STAGES

Can I apply to only perform in the Public Stage Showcase?

No. Applications will be ranked by the jurors. Selected Artists will be invited to perform on the Main Stage or Public Stage Showcases based on the juror ranking.

Can I apply to be considered for both the New Work and Community Presentation categories?

Yes. We are accepting one application per Artist per category. Artists may complete both the New Work and Community Presentation applications, but the applications must be for different presentations. Selected applicants will be invited to participate in one category only.

TECH/PERFORMANCES

When will tech and dress rehearsals take place?

Tech and dress rehearsals will take place June 15 – June 19, 2020. A tech schedule will be provided to selected artists.

When will the Dance Festival performances take place?

All Dance Festival performances will take place on June 20-21, 2020. A tech schedule will be provided to selected artists.

INSURANCE

General Liability Insurance will be required to perform in the event. Liability insurance must cover all performers, personnel, rehearsals, tech, dress rehearsal, festival performance and activities. Artist must add Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts onto their policy as additional insureds and provide proof of coverage with a Certificate of Insurance. Presenting Denver requires $1,000,000 in liability insurance. You can view Presenting Denver’s insurance requirements here.

Presenting Denver cannot provide advice on insurance. If you have questions, we suggest that you contact an authorized insurance agent or professional.

MASTER CLASSES/BACKGROUND CHECKS

Do all selected choreographers have to teach a master class?

No. Presenting Denver will select and invite choreographers to teach master classes at the Event. Please indicate in your application if you would like to be considered. Master classes will take place during the festival weekend.

Why does Presenting Denver require a background check for master class instructors?

Presenting Denver requires a background check for all master class instructors because master classes are open to minors. This is part of Presenting Denver’s due diligence and liability requirements.

PHOTOGRAPHY/FILM

If I am selected as part of the Presenting Denver Dance Festival, will I have access to the photography and videography that is taken?

No. Artists will not be able to use this content for their personal or professional purposes.

Some of the images from the event may be available for purchase directly from the photographers. If this is possible, Presenting Denver will follow up with details. Presenting Denver does not profit share from the sale of the images.

APPLICATION FEE

How do I pay my application fee?

There is a non-refundable application fee of $25 per application.

The application fee can be paid online, by selecting the button called “Pay Application Fee”,  or by mailing a check, cashier’s check, or money order to Presenting Denver, 925 Lincoln Street, Unit 14G, Denver, CO 80203. Make check out to “Presenting Denver” and in the memo line write “PDDF Application Fee”. Cash will not be accepted.

If the non-refundable application fee is unpaid by the call for submission deadline at midnight MST your application will not be considered.

QUESTIONS

Who do I contact with questions?

Contact Presenting Denver’s Executive Director, Meredith Hutson, at 720.577.5514 or meredith@presentingdenver.org. Presenting Denver communicates primarily via email. Presenting Denver is based out of a home office. We ask that you do not stop by the office without making an appointment.

Please do not contact Presenting Denver, independent contractors, board of directors, ambassadors or volunteers on their personal phones, email, homes, business or social media with questions.

*Information is subject to change.

Thanks for your interest in the 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival. We highly encourage all applicants to read the Submission Guidelines, Judging Criteria, Technical Specifications, and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) prior to submitting your application.

DEADLINE: Submissions are accepted between June 1- July 31, 2019 at midnight  MST. Late submissions will not be considered, including submission and non-refundable application fees received after the submission date has passed. Accepted pieces will be a part of the 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival taking place on  June 20-21, 2020.

Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts are seeking submissions in all dance genres and dance forms. Applicants, presenters, and performers must be Colorado residents ages 18 years or older living in the state of Colorado.

Presenting Denver is seeking applications that broaden the scope of how audience/participants experience dance. For example, a dance demonstration, a dance history lecture, or a dance class. We are not accepting applications for previously set dance works or new concert dance works for this presentation. If you would like to submit an application for a new concert dance work, please complete the “2020 New Work Application”. The Community Presentations are meant to engage and entice audience members to explore their relationship with dance, whether as a student, observer, or participant, outside of the traditional audience/spectator dynamic. At minimum, the Community Presentation should include 50% audience participation or educational material.

Six applicants will be chosen to host their performance or presentation for a 40 minute to 50 minute time slot on either June 20 or June 21, 2020. These presentations will be free and open to the public. If audience/participant interaction is required, registration will be required to attend the event.

Selected Artists will be invited to perform/present their Community Presentation at the Dance Festival. Jurors will view the applicant name, company name (if applicable), the previous work examples, presentation description, dance genre(s), anticipated number of dancers/presenters, and anticipated length of presentation. Invitations to perform/present at the Dance Festival are based on the overall juror ranking.

We are accepting one application per Artist per category. Artists may complete both the New Work and Community Presentation applications, but the applications must be for different presentations. Selected applicants will be invited to participate in one category only.

Our audience spans a wide variety of ages and cultures. Please be mindful of the content you choose to submit. Sexually suggestive content, costumes, or simulated violence may offend some audience members. Due to the expected attendance of children, nudity and profanity will not be permitted.

APPLICATION

To apply, complete the “2020 Community Presentation Application” and include the following information:

• Primary Contact Information:
  • Presenting Denver communicates primarily through email. Provide the contact information of your main point of contact.
• Previous Work Examples:
  • Submit electronically 2 previous work examples that are representative of the type of performance/presentation you are proposing. Submit  non-password protected links.
  • Each previous work example should be no more than 10 minutes in length. Jurors may only be viewing up to 2 minutes of the video submissions.
  • Presentation must be no less than 40 minutes and no longer than 50 minutes at the time of presentation.
  • Do not submit video reels or dance for the camera.
  • Do not send any personal notes, links, directions, or documents for the jurors to review as part of your application.
  • It is not required that the dancers in the work example are the performers/presenters that will be in the festival. If selected, it is required that the performance/presentation capability of the dancers you work with is comparable.
  • The previous work examples are to give the jurors an idea of what a presentation at the Dance Festival may look like if you are selected.
  • Pieces may have a maximum of 10 performers/presenters.
• Presentation Description:
  • Artists may submit 1 presentation description for consideration as part of the 2020 Dance Festival. Please submit a short, one paragraph description about your piece/presentation which includes theme/topic/content. Please also discuss the delivery format. If your piece includes audience interaction, participation or immersion, please note that in the description.Do not send any personal notes, links, directions, or documents for the jurors to review as part of your application.
  • All Artists must have the usage rights to the music, sound, and content.
  • Small props may be used in choreography, but sets are not permitted. All props are subject to approval by Presenting Denver.
• Dance Genre(s) of Presentation
  • Please list the dance genre(s) of your presentation.
• Anticipated Number of Dancers/Presenters
  • Pieces may have a maximum of 10 performers/presenters.
• Anticipated Length of Presentation
  • Presentation must be no less than 40 minutes and no longer than 50 minutes at the time of presentation.
• Application Fee:
  • There is a non-refundable application fee of $25 per application.
  • The application fee can be paid online, by selecting the button called “Pay Application Fee”,  or by mailing a check, cashier’s check, or money order to Presenting Denver, 925 Lincoln Street, Unit 14G, Denver, CO 80203. Cash will not be accepted.
  • Make check to “Presenting Denver” and in the memo line write “PDDF Application Fee”.
  • If the non-refundable application fee is unpaid by the call for submission deadline at midnight MST your application will not be considered.

COMPENSATION

• Artists selected to be a part of the 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival will be paid a stipend as notated below. The stipend reflects the total involvement in the Presenting Denver Dance Festival, including but not limited to required  orientation and meet and greet, Marketing/PR/Promotion, tech dates, dress rehearsal, and performances/ presentation as specified by Presenting Denver.
  • Community Presentation: $200.00 per group
• The above stipends reflect a per group rate and are for the total involvement of the 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival, not a per performance/presentation or per day stipend. It is the responsibility of the Artists contracted for the 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival to disburse the funds among their performers as they see fit and provide any tax documents related to the disbursement of those funds to those performers.
• Selected Artists will be required to complete a W-9 for Presenting Denver.
• As part of the stipend, Artists for the Community Presentation may be asked to participate in additional PR/Promotional activities.

MARKETING REQUIREMENTS

• All selected Artists will be required to supply Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts with photos and video for marketing and promotional purposes in the format determined by Presenting Denver. Please be advised that by providing images to Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts for its use on its website, email marketing, social media, and any other marketing channels it may employ, you acknowledge and attest that you or your organization have obtained the correct and appropriate usage release rights from your photographer(s), dancer(s)/model(s) and any other professional to release the images to Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts, and that you will indemnify Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts against any and all claims, actions, demands, or suits that may arise from the use and distribution of such images by Presenting Denver or The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts. Images with watermarks will not be considered. Photo/film credits must be provided.
• All participating Artists will be required to complete a photo/film release form for all photo imagery or film taken by Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts, our volunteers or affiliates. Artists will not be able to use this content for their personal or professional purposes after the Dance Festival.
• All participating Artists may be asked to do additional PR and other promotional activities as needed to assist in the promotion of the Dance Festival.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

• Accepts Electronic Submissions: Yes
• Accepts Mail Submissions: No
• Accepts Simultaneous Submissions: No
• Application Review Period: August 1-August 14, 2019
• Juror Reviewing Period: August 15-September 15, 2019
• Juror Conflict Resolution: September 15- September 30, 2019
• Notification: Selected Artists will be notified by December 31, 2019
• Six Artists will be selected for the Community Presentation.
• Insurance: Selected artists must provide proof of insurance. General Liability Insurance will be required to perform in the event. Liability insurance must cover all performers, personnel, rehearsals, tech, dress rehearsal, festival performance and activities. Artist must add Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts onto their policy as additional insureds and provide proof of coverage with a Certificate of Insurance. Presenting Denver requires $1,000,000 in liability insurance. You can view Presenting Denver’s insurance requirements here.
• Release Forms: All selected Artists will be required to provide Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts with a signed release of liability waiver and photo/film release form from all participants in your group.
• Contracts: All selected Artists will be required to review and sign a contract provided by Presenting Denver. Changes to the contract will not be considered.
• Music/Sound: It is the responsibility of the Artist to acquire rights to use all live or recorded music or sound.
• Audience Interaction/Participation: If audience participation and interaction is involved in the presentation, the Artist must notify Presenting Denver. Adjustments may need to be made based on risk of injury or liability. Artist and performers will be required to complete a background check if interacting with minors.
• All travel, transportation, food, drink, and other accommodations or fees are the responsibility of the Artists, not Presenting Denver or The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts.
• Any and all other costs associated with participation in the Presenting Denver Dance Festival, including but not limited to rehearsals, costuming, music/sound and any other pre-production or post-production elements to execute your performance, are the responsibility of the Artists, not Presenting Denver or The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts.

*Information is subject to change.

The following criteria will be what the jurors refer to when considering works based on your previous work examples and presentation description. Please note each category will be weighted as outlined below.

• Diversity (50%) – Diversity of dance styles, technique, and method of delivery.
• Topic/Theme (25%) – Originality, content, educational value, unique concept, entertainment quality, audience appeal, inspiration to others, artistic merit, community building, and inclusivity.
• Craft (25%) – Thoughtfulness in presentation, invention and delivery of concept, use of sound, crafting of space, time, and energy, and development of theme, approach, and/or subject matter.

*Information is subject to change.

The Community Presentation will take place outdoors. If weather is an issue, the presentation will be moved indoors. Both specifications are given to you below.

• • Location: Outdoor area at the University of Denver campus.  Presentations and Participation can take place on and off stage in the Circle Green only.
  • Stage Size:If outdoors, 32 ft long x 32 ft deep. If indoors, 26 ft long x 21 deep.
  • Stage Type: If outdoors, the performance space will be on a mobile stage with marley. If indoors, the performance will be on a wood floor covered with marley. For tap, flamenco, Irish step, or other dance forms requiring alternative flooring, supplying the alternative flooring will be the responsibility and cost of the Artist. The alternative flooring must be easily portable, nonpermanent, and mobile enough to be set up and taken down in a matter of minutes. Alternative flooring is subject to approval by Presenting Denver.
  • Dressing Rooms: Group dressing rooms will be provided.
  • Warm-up area: Indoor group rehearsal studio with marley floor and mirrors. Limited ballet barres will be available.
  • Sets Allowed: No
  • Props Allowed: Yes. Small props only. Props may not include liquid, organic, sharp, or harsh materials that may damage the stage or create an unsafe environment for performers. All props are subject to approval.
  • Microphone: A handheld microphone will be provided.
  • Lighting: None
  • Sound System: Portable sound system with capability of playing CDs and audio files.
  • Stage Elements: Mobile stage with roof, two sets of stairs, and handrail. No front of house curtain, backdrop, crossover or wings.  This will be a non-traditional, open performance space. Performers will be seen at all times.
  • Accommodate Aerial Dance: No
  • Live Music: We can not accommodate live music.
  • Additional Technical Needs: No additional technical request will be considered for this performance or presentation.

*Information is subject to change.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts are seeking applications that broaden the scope of how audience/participants experience dance. For example, a dance demonstration, a dance history lecture, or a dance class. We are not accepting applications for previously set dance works or new concert dance works for this presentation. If you would like to submit an application for a new concert dance work, please complete the “2020 New Work Application”. The Community Presentation is meant to engage and entice audience members to explore their relationship with dance, whether as a student, observer, or participant, outside of the traditional audience/spectator dynamic. Applicants must be Colorado residents ages 18 years or older living in the state of Colorado.

COMMUNITY PRESENTATION

Do applicants and presenters have to be Colorado residents?

Yes. All applicants and presenters must be Colorado residents ages 18 years or older living in the state of Colorado.

Do performers or presenters have to be Colorado residents?

Yes. All performers and presenters must be Colorado residents ages 18 years or older living in the state of Colorado.

Can performers or presenters be under the age of 18 years?

No. All performers and presenters must be Colorado residents ages 18 years or older living in the state of Colorado.

Can I submit a collaborative piece or presentation for the Community Presentation Concept?

Yes, as long as the piece meets the submission requirements. All applicants, collaborators, presenters, choreographers and performers must be Colorado residents ages 18 years or older living in the state of Colorado.

If I am selected for the Presenting Denver Dance Festival, can I perform or present my piece after the Dance Festival has come to an end?

Yes, if you are selected for the Presenting Denver Dance Festival, you can perform or present your piece after the completion of the Dance Festival Event.

Can my Presentation be an excerpt of a longer work?

Yes.

Can my Presentation be a previously completed work that I would like to revisit?

Yes.

Can my Presentation be something I am already working on or have worked on in the past?

Yes.

How long does my presentation need to be?

Presentation must be no less than 40 minutes and no more than 50 minutes long at the time of the presentation.

Can I apply to present my choreography?

Yes, you can apply to show your choreography at the Community Presentation if the presentation includes at minimum 50% of audience participation or educational material. The Community Presentation is meant to engage and entice audience members to explore their relationship with dance, whether as a student, observer, or participant, outside of the traditional audience/spectator dynamic.

We are not accepting applications for previously set dance works or new concert dance works for this stage. If you would like to submit an application for a new concert dance work, please complete the “2020 New Work Application”.

Where will the Community Presentations take place?
Weather permitting, The Community Presentation will take place during the day at the Public Stage. It is not part of the Public Stage Showcase. If weather is an issue, we will have an alternative indoor location.

Is the Community Presentation part of the Main Stage or Public Stage Showcases?

No.

PREVIOUS WORK EXAMPLES

What do I need to submit in my previous work examples?

We highly encourage the previous work examples include content that best correlates to our judging criteria. The previous work examples are to give the jurors an idea of what a completed presentation in the Dance Festival may look like if you are chosen for the Dance Festival. Please note that jurors may only be viewing up to 2 minutes of the video submissions.

Do not submit performance reels or dance for the camera works. These will not be considered.

What if my previous work examples are longer than 10 minutes?

Please submit previous work examples that are no longer than 10 minutes. Please edit down to the section of a longer work that you would like the jurors to see. Please note that jurors may only be viewing up to 2 minutes of the video submissions. We suggest that you submit previous work examples that will best correlate to our judging criteria.

What if I don’t know how to edit down my previous work example to 10 minutes?

Below are some free websites that may be able to help you edit your video. Presenting Denver does not endorse these companies. We suggest that you investigate all your options.

• https://online-video-cutter.com/
• https://ezgif.com/cut-video
• https://cutvideo.online/

Should my previous work examples be excerpts or full performances/presentations?

This is up to the applicant. We recommend full performances or presentations, but that is not required. We suggest that you submit previous work examples that will best correlate to our judging criteria. Please note that jurors may only be viewing up to 2 minutes of the video submissions.

What if I don’t have professional previous work examples? Can I submit a video of phrase work or presentation of me and/or my dancers working in the studio?

Yes. We suggest that you submit previous work examples that will best correlate to our judging criteria. Please note that jurors may only be viewing up to 2 minutes of the video submissions.

How current do my previous work examples need to be?

This is up to the applicant. We suggest that you submit previous work examples that will best correlate to our judging criteria. Please note that the jurors may only be viewing up to 2 minutes of the video submissions.  

Do my dancers need to be the dancers in the previous work example videos?

No. It is not required that the dancers in the previous work examples are the performing artists that will be in the showing, but it is required that the performance capability of the dancers you work with, if chosen for the showing, is comparable.

What types of links can I submit for my previous work examples?

Please submit a non-password protected public link.

Can I submit my previous work examples in another format like a DVD?

No.

MUSIC/SOUND/IMAGE USAGE RIGHTS

Do I need to have usage rights to the music or sound?

Yes. If selected for the Presenting Denver Dance Festival, it is the responsibility of the artist to acquire rights to use all live or recorded music or sound.

Do I need to have usage rights to content I am presenting?

Yes.

STAGES

Can I apply to be considered for both the New Work and Community Presentation categories?

Yes. We are accepting one application per Artist per category. Artists may complete both the New Work and Community Presentation applications, but the applications must be for different presentations. Selected applicants will be invited to participate in one category only.

TECH/PERFORMANCES

When will tech and dress rehearsals take place?

Tech and dress rehearsals are still to be determined.

When will the Dance Festival performances take place?

All Dance Festival performances will take place on June 20-21, 2020. A tech schedule will be provided to selected artists.

INSURANCE

General Liability Insurance will be required to perform in the event. Liability insurance must cover all performers, personnel, rehearsals, tech, dress rehearsal, festival performance and activities. Artist must add Presenting Denver and The Robert and Judi Newman Center for the Performing Arts onto their policy as additional insureds and provide proof of coverage with a Certificate of Insurance. Presenting Denver requires $1,000,000 in liability insurance. You can view Presenting Denver’s insurance requirements here.

Presenting Denver cannot provide advice on insurance. If you have questions, we suggest that you contact an authorized insurance agent or professional.

BACKGROUND CHECKS

Will I have to complete a background check?

Presenting Denver requires a background check for all classes or events that include audience interaction or participation that are open to minors. This is part of Presenting Denver’s due diligence and liability requirements.

PHOTOGRAPHY/FILM

If I am selected as part of the Presenting Denver Dance Festival, will I have access to the photography and videography that is taken?

No. Artists will not be able to use this content for their personal or professional purposes.

Some of the images from the event may be available for purchase directly from the photographers. If this is possible, Presenting Denver will follow up with details. Presenting Denver does not profit share from the sale of the images.

APPLICATION FEE

How do I pay my application fee?

There is a non-refundable application fee of $25 per application.

The application fee can be paid online, by selecting the button called “Pay Application Fee”,  or by mailing a check, cashier’s check, or money order to Presenting Denver, 925 Lincoln Street, Unit 14G, Denver, CO 80203. Make check out to “Presenting Denver” and in the memo line write “PDDF Application Fee”. Cash will not be accepted.

If the non-refundable application fee is unpaid by the call for submission deadline at midnight MST your application will not be considered.

QUESTIONS

Who do I contact with questions?

Contact Presenting Denver’s Executive Director, Meredith Hutson, at 720.577.5514 or meredith@presentingdenver.org. Presenting Denver communicates primarily via email. Presenting Denver is based out of a home office. We ask that you do not stop by the office without making an appointment.

Please do not contact Presenting Denver, independent contractors, board of directors, ambassadors or volunteers on their personal phones, email, homes, business or social media with questions.

*Information is subject to change.

Thanks for your interest in the 2020 Presenting Denver Dance Festival. We highly encourage all applicants to read the Submission Guidelines, Judging Criteria, Technical Specifications, and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) prior to submitting your application.