Choreographer applications now open for

20×20: 20 Works in 20 Minutes

What happens when creativity meets a time constraint? When perfection takes a backseat to possibility? When choreographers are challenged to create something beautiful without the luxury of endless rehearsal and refinement? What can you say in just 1 minute?

Cleveland Dance Project Company (CDP Company) invites choreographers to apply to be part of 20×20 - 20 works in 20 minutes. An experimental creation opportunity designed to encourage creativity, collaboration, and artistic exploration. 20×20 is an opportunity to embrace the raw, the unexpected, and the beautifully unrefined. Choreographers will be challenged to create an original one-minute piece in just one 75 minute rehearsal, working with CDP Company dancers to bring an idea to life.

Apply now to be a part of our inaugural 20×20 performance on Saturday, March 13, 2027, at Cleveland Dance Project Studios in Brooklyn Heights, Ohio.

The Creative Parameters

  1. Performance Space: The performance area will be approximately 15' deep × 30' wide.

  2. Costuming: All dancers will begin with a black base costume. Additional costume pieces, accessories, and creative elements may be layered on top.

  3. Length: Each piece must be approximately one minute long.

  4. Casting: Choreographers will work with CDP Company dancers, who will be cast following choreographer selection. Each piece may include anywhere from 1–12 dancers.

  5. Rehearsal: Your piece must be created and completed within one 75-minute rehearsal in February, that will be assigned to you based on availability after selection. Rehearsals happen during CDP Company’s usual hours on either a Wednesday evening (7:45-9)or Sunday (12-1:15 or 1:15-2:30). Dancers will arrive warmed up and ready to work!

  6. Think Outside the Box: Be creative! How can you transform the space, the dancers, or the audience's experience? Think beyond movement. Explore props, costuming, staging, lighting, interaction, unexpected choices, and anything else that brings your vision to life.

How to Apply

A complete application includes:

  1. Submission of the choreographer application form below

  2. A headshot emailed to cdpcompany501c3@gmail.com.

  3. A $20 application fee submitted through PayPal.

Early Bird Special: Applications received by December 31, 2026, are eligible for a discounted $15 application fee!

We can't wait to see what you dream up. Bring us something unexpected, challenge yourself creatively, and help us redefine what a performance can be.

What CDP Company Will Provide

  • 1.25 hours of studio time for your one rehearsal

  • Access to CDP Company dancers and Cleveland Dance Project's costume closet

  • Professional photos and video footage of your finished work

  • A small stipend in recognition of your time and creative contribution

Important Dates & Details

  • Application Deadline: January 15, 2027

  • Choreographer Selections Announced: January 20, 2027

  • Rehearsal: One scheduled Wednesday evening or Sunday early afternoon in February.

  • Tech/Dress Rehearsal: TBD - either Wednesday March 10 or Friday March 12, 2027 evening. Choreographers do not need to be present for this unless they would like to be.

  • Performance: Saturday, March 13, 2027 (approximately 5:00 PM)

All rehearsals and the performance will take place at Cleveland Dance Project Studios, 5505 Valley Belt Road, Suite B, Brooklyn Heights, OH. The rehearsal and performance schedule will be finalized once participating choreographers have been selected.