JCAL is pleased to open its application portal for the 14th annual Making Moves Dance Festival (MMDF). To create more performance opportunities, JCAL has expanded MMDF to a three-day event at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center (JPAC).  

MMDF 2023 will present commissions by, and performances from, up to nine choreographers on Fri., Sept. 22, 2023; Sat., Sept. 23, 2023; and Sun., Sept. 24, 2023. All choreographers, dance artists, and companies working in any genre—including, but not limited to, modern, contemporary, African, ballet, ballroom, folk, hip hop, jazz, and social-dance influence (e.g., vogue, house, waacking)—are encouraged to apply; bold ideas are especially welcome. Early submission is encouraged; the submission deadline is Monday, May 1, 2023, 6pm. 

The theme for MMDF 2023 is Freedom! 

MMDF2023 offers three categories of opportunities for choreographers and dance companies: 

● Major Commission: Two professional choreographers will each receive a $3000 commission to create a new, 30-minute work and present it at JPAC on Sept. 23 and 24. Commissioned choreographers will receive up to 80 hours of free rehearsal space at JCAL (space permitting). Commissioned choreographers will provide dancers, costumes, props, etc., out of commissioned funds (no solos or duets). 

● Emerging Artists: As many as three professional choreographers and/or groups that are emerging and/or identify as underrepresented will receive a $1,250 stipend to present a 15-minute piece at JPAC on Sept. 22, 23, and/or 24. Applicants must demonstrate a track record of public performances, commit time to the choreographic process, and highlight their creative concepts in their submission. 

● Early-Career Artists: As many as four early-career professional choreographers and/or groups will receive a $750 stipend to present a 15-minute piece at JPAC on Sept 22, 23, and/or. 24; pre-existing work is preferred. Applicants must demonstrate a track record of public performances, commit time to the choreographic process, and highlight their creative concepts. 

MMDF2023 applicants will be selected by a jury of cultural leaders representing the diversity of NYC’s dance community; the jury will be chaired by JCAL Artistic Director Courtney Ffrench. 

Applicants will be selected based on the strength of submitted work samples; clarity of choreographic vision; ability to communicate their commitment to purpose, aesthetic, and technique; an artist statement; evidence of training pertinent to the work; and a documented track record of artistic activity in NYC. Selected artists will be notified in early June 2023. Calls of inquiry regarding the status of an application will not be returned. 

MMDF2023 applicants may be considered for multiple opportunities but can only be awarded in one category. Selected artists may request up to six hours of rehearsal space at JCAL/JPAC in the week before MMDF2023, plus one dress and one tech rehearsal directly on the JPAC stage. 

MMDF2023 applicants must be at least 18 years old, residents of NYC as of the application deadline, and have previously presented work in a public setting. Queens residents receive preference for all opportunities. 

MMDF 2023 is supported by the Mellon Foundation, Mertz Gilmore Foundation and Harkness Foundation for Dance, with additional support from New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and general operating support from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs.