The International Choreographic Competition LINKAGE is open to contemporary dance solos and duets with a duration of 5–13 minutes.

Where: Stara Zagora, Bulgaria

When: 6 – 9 November 2026

Deadline for applications: 20th of September, 2026

TERMS & CONDITIONS

– Contemporary dance solos or duets with a duration of 5 to 13 minutes are eligible.
– A choreographer may also perform in their own work.
– There are no nationality restrictions.
– Candidates up to 40 years of age are eligible.
– The competition will be held live at the State Opera – Stara Zagora, Bulgaria.
– A pre-selection jury will select 10 choreographers to become finalists of the 7th International Choreographic Competition LINKAGE and present their works live.
– The finalists will be announced no later than 25 September 2026.
– The competition will take place over four calendar days (6–9 November 2026). Technical rehearsals on stage will begin on 7 November.
– Each finalist/team will be allocated one hour on stage for technical rehearsal, lighting adjustments and stage set-up.
– Props and set pieces are permitted only if the performers can bring them on and off the stage without assistance.
– By participating in the competition, all participants agree to be photographed and filmed during the competition and the Gala Evening. These materials may be used by the organizers for promotional purposes.
– Accommodation for the finalists will be provided by the organizers for the duration of the competition.
– Airport transfers between Sofia Airport and the accommodation will be provided by the organizers.
– Travel expenses to Sofia, Bulgaria, are the responsibility of the participants.
– At the beginning of the Gala Evening, the jury will present the following awards: First Prize, Second Prize, Third Prize, Audience Award, as well as any Special Prizes.
– The jury deliberations will be broadcast live on the evening of the competition.
– The decisions of the jury are final and cannot be appealed.

AWARDS

First Prize – EUR 3,000
Second Prize – EUR 2,000
Third Prize – EUR 1,000
Audience Award – EUR 1,000

Special Prizes
Three artistic residencies, workshops and festival selections.

How to register:
To register for the competition, please complete and submit the application form below: https://forms.gle/ijGd5esrrTN843oSA

Costs for participants:
Free of charge

Contact details: icc.linkage@gmail.com

For further information, please visit https://www.instagram.com/icc_linkage/

For more OPEN CALLS, please visit https://dancingopportunities.com/category/open-calls/