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Dance Intensives

Week-long, tuition-free dance intensives in NYC

Access to the company, without the usual barriers.

Our intensives combine technique and repertory classes, company-inspired movement workshops, and refreshingly honest conversations between participants and the company’s artists. 

Dancers learn repertory directly from the artists involved in its development and performance process.

All intensives are offered at no cost to participants.

The 2026 Summer Intensive application is now closed. Sign up for our newsletter and be the first to know when it opens again.

*Special thanks to YoungArts for supporting our intensives.

How We Approach Intensives

Known for drawing from a range of influences and perspectives, Kyle Abraham Dance Vanguard has been expanding what a contemporary dance company can be for decades. The Intensives continue this practice by inviting artists into a space of exploration and robust collaboration.

Train in the company’s movement language

Technique classes in ballet, contemporary, codified modern, and other disciplines build a strong foundation. Movement workshops introduce the company’s signature vocabulary and core movement values: exploration, musicality, abandonment, and intuition.

Work with artists shaping contemporary dance

Workshops are led in rotation by Artistic Director Kyle Abraham, Rehearsal Director Jessica Tong, and company dancers. Get direct access to the unique vision defining Kyle Abraham Dance Vanguard's work and a closer look at how contemporary dance is created and understood.

Gain insight into professional company life

Beyond technique and repertoire, mentorship is formed through candid conversations on topics often left unspoken like the creative process, navigating a dance career, and the choices that lead to long-term success.

Build lasting artistic connections

The cohort model strengthens ties and encourages dancers to build community. It also places pre-professionals in direct contact with future colleagues, so they can make connections that directly support an arts career.

The Daily Breakdown

Morning

Begin the day with technique classes in ballet and contemporary dance, followed by Kyle Abraham Dance Vanguard movement workshops.

Afternoon

Participate in small-group lunch talks with the artistic team, then return to the studio for repertory work.

Evening

Explore NYC’s cultural landscape through free or low-cost performances, exhibitions, and events.

Sample Schedule (opens in new tab)

Summer Intensive Application Guidelines

Participants must apply to attend, and capacity is limited. Applications for the Summer Intensive open annually in March.

  • The application includes a short movement sample and a personal statement.
  • The movement sample should be a recent video that is no longer than 60 seconds, unedited, and of yourself without any other dancers captured. 
  • The movement can be your own choreography, an improvisation, or another choreographer’s work with their permission. The video should not be a dance reel, highly edited, or showcasing multiple choreographers’ work. 
  • Let yourself shine: video samples should be of material you feel best showcases your artistry as a dancer. 

All applicants will be notified of their status by mid-April. 

FAQ

What does it cost to attend Kyle Abraham Dance Vanguard’s Intensives?

  • Nothing. All of the company’s Intensives are offered free of charge as part of our commitment to expanding access to high-quality contemporary dance training. 

Who should apply?

  • Our Intensives are designed for pre-professional and professional dancers ages 18 and up. University or conservatory students, recent graduates, and freelance dance artists are all encouraged to apply.

When and where will the Summer Intensive be held? Do you also hold a Winter Intensive?

  • Summer Intensives are held in NYC and typically take place in June, July, or August. Exact dates are announced each year when applications open in March.

    Winter Intensives are dependent on the company’s touring schedule. Kyle Abraham Dance Vanguard will not hold a Winter Intensive in 2026.

What’s included in the Summer Intensive? What about the Winter Intensive?

  • All Intensives include technique classes, company-inspired movement workshops, and conversations with company artists. 

    Summer Intensives focus more heavily on repertory and Winter Intensives, when available, center creative process and collaboration. Both programs reflect the company's broader approach to movement, performance, and artistic exchange.

I don’t live in NYC. Can I still apply?

  • Absolutely. Participants join us from across the country and beyond.

Do you provide room and board during the intensive?

  • Not at this time. While we do not currently provide travel or housing support, expanding accessibility remains a long-term goal. 

I have a neurological and/or physical disability. Can I still apply?

  • Absolutely. During the application process, participants are invited to share any access needs so we can provide accommodations that ensure equitable participation throughout the intensive.

My question isn’t answered here. How can I reach you?

This program is free because of donors like you.

Fund the Intensives (opens in new tab)