Create. Collaborate. Inspire.

About the Opportunity

Toledo Ballet invites emerging choreographers from all dance genres to apply for the Winter Works Choreographic Competition, an incubator providing professional dancers, dedicated studio space, resources, and a collaborative creative environment to support innovative choreography.

Two emerging choreographers will be selected for a creative residency in January 2027. Each choreographer will have two weeks to create an original work, 10–15 minutes in length, on 10 professional Toledo Ballet company dancers. During the residency, choreographers will have access to Toledo Ballet’s state-of-the-art studios and work closely with the dancers to develop their vision from concept to performance.

The residency will culminate in a fully produced world premiere featuring both original works, with the opportunity to be accompanied by live musicians from the Toledo Symphony and Toledo Jazz Orchestra.

World Premiere Performance

Winter Works
Saturday, February 13, 2027 at 7pm
Toledo Center for Live Arts, Kay-Lee Family Studio

Awards

• Artistic Choice Award: An esteemed artistic panel, led by Artistic Director Eric Otto and distinguished Toledo Ballet faculty, will select the recipient of the $500 prize.
• Audience Choice Award: Audience members will have the opportunity to vote for the work that captures their hearts and earns their support.

Community & Education

Selected choreographers will become part of the Toledo Ballet artistic community through opportunities to share their artistry with the next generation of dancers. Each choreographer will teach two masterclasses for students of the Toledo Ballet School, providing an opportunity to inspire young dancers and engage with the local dance community.

What Selected Choreographers Receive

• Airfare reimbursement up to $500 for travel to and from Toledo, Ohio
• Lodging accommodations
• Complimentary access to Toledo Ballet’s state-of-the-art studios throughout the residency
• The opportunity to create on 10 professional Toledo Ballet company dancers
• A fully produced world premiere on Saturday, February 13, 2027
• The opportunity for live musical accompaniment by musicians of the Toledo Symphony or Toledo Jazz Orchestra
• Opportunities to teach two masterclasses at the Toledo Ballet School
• The opportunity to connect with Toledo’s vibrant artistic community
• Eligibility for the $500 Artistic Choice Award

Application Requirements

Applications must be submitted by September 30, 2026, via the provided application form.