KANTA – premiere support

The purpose of the call for new works is to bring professional dance to audiences in the ITAK region and to enable dance artists to pursue their careers in the region in accordance with ITAK’s strategy.

Application criteria

Any working group that includes at least one dance artist who lives and/or actively works in the ITAK region (North Karelia, North Savo, South Savo) is eligible to apply.

A prerequisite for receiving support is a self-financing contribution to the production, in addition to the support offered by ITAK. You may apply even if funding is still uncertain at the time of application. The self-finance may consist, for example, of a project grant, project support, artist and working grants for working group members, private funding, or other fundraising efforts by the working group. If no other funding is granted for the work by March 30, 2027, the selection decision will expire.

The selected work may be a completely new production or a previously performed work for which a new version is to be produced. We will consider works that have already reached the demo stage, as well as works that have been granted funding but for which a production venue has not yet been agreed upon.

The uniqueness and relevance of the work’s concept in the present day will be evaluated in the selection process. We hope to receive proposals that draw from diverse contemporary dance practices. We do not emphasize any particular aesthetic. Please note that you may also apply with a work that has previously been submitted to ITAK’s repertoire in open calls.

Support and funding

ITAK will provide funding of up to 20,000 euros to support the work of the selected premiere working group, including employer costs (approximately 35% of the grant amount). The funding will be allocated entirely to the salaries of the dance artists participating in the working group. Salary amounts are determined in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement(opens in new window) for the theater sector. The grant amount allows, for example, for 4–5 dance artists to work for one month, depending on the artists’ experience and training. The work supported by ITAK must be continuous and must include three shows. Work funded through self-financing may be spread out over time.

The selected work will be produced for its premiere during 2027 with the support of ITAK staff (producer, communications specialist, lighting and sound technician). The support granted by ITAK is allocated entirely to the working group’s salary costs. The use of the performance venue and ITAK’s performance technology as part of the production will be agreed upon separately with the selected working group, in accordance with the creative process and as needed.

Expenses for materials, travel, accommodation, copyright, and technology, as well as other costs, are covered by other funding secured for the production. The grant does not include compensation for travel or accommodation expenses, nor for materials or technology required for the production.

The premiere working group is required to stage at least three performances during the premiere season, secure other funding by March 30, 2027, and hold a public discussion event in connection with one of the performances.

How to apply

The application period runs from May 6 to May 31, 2026. Apply for premiere production support by filling out the application form below. All applicants will be notified of the selection results by September 30, 2026.

Decisions will be made by ITAK’s Artistic Director Veera Lamberg in consultation with ITAK staff by September 30, 2026. The actual production agreements will be drawn up once ITAK’s funding for 2027 and the working group’s other funding for 2027 have been secured.

Ask for more information

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