We try to accommodate as many artists as possible, but with limited budget and capacity, we're not able to include everyone who applies. Here's the basics about how the selection process works.

Choreographers

Choreographers are evaluated on their previous work, as well as evidence that they can develop a compelling concept and work collaboratively. Choreographers, select from the pool of artists with submitted applications. Choreographers are expected to collaborate closely with their artists and to communicate clearly with their createive team about rehearsal and production needs.

Musicians

Musicians are selected first. This lets choreographers, once selected, choose from a pool of musical options for their work, and begin planning. Musicians are evaluated on the conceptual strength of their work on its own (independent of staging) and on the professional quality of the sound.

Costumer Designers and Visual Artists

These artists are evaluated on the strength of their submitted work and how well that work fits with the selected choreographers' projects.

Dancers

Dancers are selected based on each choreographer's needs. Once choreographers are selected, they determine the experience level and dance technique required for their piece. Scheduling is also a factor in dancer selection; the schedule is based primarily on the choreographer’s availability.

Questions

If you have questions about how this process works, whether the application is a good fit for you, or what work samples or information you're required to submit, reach out to us at iowachoreographyfestival@gmail.com.

We're always happy to talk through the process with you. Come create with us in summer 2027!