MN Dance Task Force Proposal: Final Day to Submit

Work with Minnesota Dance Task Force (MNDTF aka Task Force) members to plan and facilitate a series of community meetings meant to gather information from the dance community about their current experiences, needs, and dreams. The desired outcome from those meetings is to generate a framework and implementation steps for the creation of a service organization to support Minnesota dance artists and intentionally move toward an equitable dance ecosystem.

To accomplish these objectives, the Task Force has identified a two-phased process:

Phase I: Three small-community focus groups, identical in format to gather broad and deep input about the community’s desires from a service organization. These meetings will be held in a variety of locations in the state.

Phase II: Two larger community-wide meetings to review those needs and identify a strategy for moving forward, which we project will include identifying a Steering Committee to spearhead that work. These meetings will be hosted by The McKnight Foundation.

It is expected that this work will be completed between January and July 2025. Read the full RFP here. The Task Force is requesting proposals from individuals or firms interested in managing and facilitating this community-based process to address these objectives.

The proposal should include: Relevant qualifications and experience, a proposed process and tools, and anticipated challenges.

The hiring committee has recommended an additional application period through January 15 to provide a more extensive reach for the most diverse and qualified pool to ensure the broadest dissemination possible. This has pushed back the project timeline, and we simply wanted to make you aware of the shift.

To apply, send the requested information to mndancetaskforce@gmail.com.

Thank you for your understanding and continued interest. Please do not hesitate to contact Mathew Janczewski of the MN Dance Task Force if you have any questions.

Zenon Dance – Call for Choreographers

Zenon Dance is pleased to announce that it is accepting applications from choreographers interested in partnering with Zenon Dance Zone programs. These programs are an intensive adult dance initiative designed for dancers at an intermediate/advanced level who are eager to enhance their movement experience. Selected choreographers will collaborate with the Zone Performance Group and/or a new advanced Zone program, Block Z.

Each Zone program has multiple opportunities to participate, ranging from a 3-week to 20-week creative process to develop a new work, culminating in a performance. We welcome applications from all dance genres and levels of choreographic experience.

As a Zone Choreographer, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Become part of the vibrant Zenon Dance community!
  • Team up with fellow Zone dancers to create an innovative piece.
  • Enhance your dance-making skills and creative process.
  • Gain access to a diverse group of committed and passionate dancers.
  • Showcase your work in the Zenon Dance Zone Concerts.

This position is classified as an Independent Contractor and is supported by a stipend that varies depending on the session length and Zone program.

To Apply: Please send your resume, artist statement, and a link/s to video samples of your choreography to danielle@zenondance.org by Wednesday, January 29.

Zenon is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or age.

Shen Pei Art Studio Seeks Dancers for a New Drama

Shen Pei Art Studio calls for 3-4 dancers for male roles in a contemporary drama. Shen Pei Art Studio is a creative adult dance studio for dancers with an intermediate or upper-level dance background who are interested in Asian culture and searching for performance opportunities. Our choreographies are international. We are looking for dancers for a new creative contemporary dance drama based on real WWII stories in Shanghai, China.

Technical and Dress Rehearsal: Thursday, March 13
Performances: Saturday, March 15 at 2:30pm and 7:00pm
Theater: Jewish Community Center in Minneapolis
Pay Rate: Based on experience and availability.

Requirements:

  • Male dancers are preferred, but not required.
  • Experience in Chinese dance, Korean dance, ballet, or contemporary dance is preferred, but not required.
  • College students are welcome to participate; no experience is required.
  • Must be able to partner.
  • Must be age 18 or above.
  • Must be available for all performances.
  • Must be able to attend at least 16 hours of rehearsals and practices, plus 16 hours of tuition-free training, before performances.

Please email shenpeiart@gmail.com or call 612-800-2017 for an audition appointment or more information.

Seeking Female Dancers

Seeking a dancer who can learn choreography for a show in March.

The piece is about the definition of “feminine” and its many applications. The dance style is a modern fusion with Graham influences, but experience in Graham technique is not required. I would recommend having at least 3-5 years of modern experience as well as at least 3 years of ballet.

Technical/Performance Week: March 24-30
Rehearsal Times: TBD, as we are working with multiple schedules. It’s a twelve-minute piece with four dancers, so it shouldn’t take too long to learn.

If interested, please send gillian.wheatman@icloud.com a reel, resume, or introductory email. A work-in-progress video of choreography can be sent upon request.

Please email Gillian at gillian.wheatman@icloud.com with questions.

Ballet Co.Laboratory Company Auditions

Ballet Co.Laboratory is looking for versatile and accomplished classically trained dancers with partnering and pointe experience for our 2025/26 performance season. In addition to paid 34-36 week dance contracts, Company Artists are paid to learn arts administration skills in efforts to develop the whole dancer.

More information and application details can be found here!

Ballet Co.Laboratory Trainee Auditions

Advanced Level students, ages 15-22, have the opportunity to study alongside the Company as Trainees of Ballet Co.Laboratory. Trainees are advanced students who also study four times a week during the day with the Company in class and rehearsal. Trainees are fully enrolled in the Performing Arts Division at Ballet Co.Laboratory. Trainees participate in all season productions and outreach performances.

Auditions for Ballet Co.Laboratory’s Trainee Program occur annually. Dancers may select to audition in-person or via video audition.

More information and application details can be found here!

MFA in Dance at Minnesota State University, Mankato

The Department of Performing Arts at Minnesota State University, Mankato is accepting applications for Fall 2025.

This 3-year program includes tracks in performance and choreography, and offers teaching opportunities and graduate assistantships. Applicants will have opportunities to choreograph and perform in annual dance concerts and theatrical productions in the beautiful, newly renovated, 450-seat Ted Paul Theatre and the intimate Andreas Theatre. Students will have the opportunity to attend the ACDA conferences and guest artists are invited into the Program for residencies.

Students are supported by 13 faculty and staff members in the department with specialties including choreography, screen dance, dance performance, history, lighting, costuming, musical theatre, directing, scenic design, and public relations.

For information or to apply, email Daniel Stark at daniel.stark@mnsu.edu.

Young Dance is Hiring a Marketing and Communications Director

Do you like to make beautiful graphics? Do you enjoy drafting and implementing clear communications? Do you want to work for a passionate team of dance lovers? 

Join the Young Dance team! Young Dance seeks a Marketing and Communications Director (0.75 FTE, $26k-$30k/year) to manage all communication aspects (programming, events, news, marketing, social media), oversee branding, and collaborate on fundraising initiatives.

They prioritize access, representation, and transparency, aiming to engage new communities like BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and people with disabilities. The ideal candidate is experienced in marketing, design, and communication, with strong writing and organizational skills. Familiarity with Google Workspace, Adobe Creative Suite, and image/video editing software is a plus.

This hybrid position offers a flexible schedule, health benefits, professional development, and unlimited time off based on performance. Apply with a cover letter, resume, and references to Executive Director Gretchen Pick at gretchen@youngdance.org.