Global context · 15 September 2026

Biennale di Venezia Opens Calls for Two New Choreographies for 2027 Dance Festival

The Biennale di Venezia has launched national and international calls for two original choreographic works to debut at the 2027 edition of its contemporary dance festival, with submissions open until 20 October 2026.

On 15 September 2026, the Biennale di Venezia launched both national and international calls for two new, original choreographic creations. These calls are available on the official Biennale website, with the application period running until 20 October 2026. The selected choreographies are scheduled to debut at the 21st International Festival of Contemporary Dance, which will take place from 15 to 31 July 2027.

Wayne McGregor, the artistic director of the Dance Sector, will be responsible for selecting the winning projects. The Biennale Foundation will provide a contribution that can be used independently or in collaboration with other partners to realise the new choreography in preparation for its premiere at the festival.

In addition to the financial contribution, the Foundation will cover essential production costs. These include artistic fees, travel, accommodation, and technical requirements necessary for the presentation of the selected projects. This support aims to facilitate the development and staging of the new works.

For the sixth consecutive year, Biennale Danza is renewing its commitment to supporting new generations of artists and dance companies both in Italy and abroad. This ongoing initiative is part of the Foundation’s broader efforts to foster creativity and innovation in the field of contemporary dance.

Previous editions of the festival have featured works such as "A Good Man is Hard to Find" by the British duo Bullyache, "Sisifo felice" by Philippe Kratz and Pablo Girolami with the Nuovo Balletto di Toscana, as well as "Just Between Me and Jesus" by New Zealander Oli Mathiesen and "Invisible" by Andrea Salustri, which are scheduled for 2026.

Why it matters

The Biennale di Venezia’s open calls offer a significant opportunity for choreographers worldwide to gain support and visibility at a major international dance festival. By funding new works and facilitating their debut, the Biennale helps sustain and invigorate the contemporary dance scene, encouraging artistic experimentation and cross-cultural collaboration.

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