MÓTUS Announces 2026 Adjustments Programme for Early-Career Dance Artists

MÓTUS is pleased to announce the return of Adjustments, its dedicated development programme supporting early-career choreographers and dance artists across Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire and neighbouring regions. Designed to strengthen the local talent pipeline and offer high-quality professional development beyond traditional dance hubs, Adjustments will run from April to May 2026, culminating in a public performance platform on 23 May 2026 as part of the MÓTUS Festival.

This project is generously supported by The Leche Trust and Arts Council England.

Applications open on 6 March and close on 23 March.

Now in its refreshed pilot format under Artistic Director Cameron Ball, Adjustments provides mentoring, skills development and creative opportunities for six selected artists at a pivotal moment in their professional journey. The programme responds directly to a recognised gap in artist support within the region and aims to nurture new choreographic voices through tailored, high-impact guidance.

Cameron Ball said “Developing new talent has always been a central focus of MÓTUS. There is so much emerging creativity in and around Milton Keynes, but not enough tailored support for artists at the start of their careers. Adjustments is our way of addressing that gap: offering mentoring, space and guidance to help early-career choreographers grow with confidence and feel part of a dance community."

Programme Overview

From April to May, participating artists will receive:

• 1-to-1 mentoring with established choreographers
• Scratch funding and studio space for creation and research
• Four professional development sessions delivered by industry specialists, covering:
  ○ Fundraising
  ○ Tour booking and producing
  ○ Creative health and wellbeing
  ○ Environmental sustainability
• Support from the MÓTUS team on artistic vision, structure and sector knowledge

The programme includes a scratch performance sharing in mid-May, giving artists the chance to test ideas, receive feedback and build confidence ahead of their public platform.

Performance Platform – 23 May 2026

The Adjustments cohort will present new works-in-progress as part of MÓTUS’ 23 May festival platform, offering audiences a first look at emerging talent and giving artists valuable exposure to MIlton Keynes audiences, and regional and national industry professionals.

Who Can Apply

Adjustments is open to early-career dance artists aged 21+, typically within the first five years of their practice. MÓTUS welcomes applicants from all training backgrounds, including those who have come to choreography via non-traditional routes. Artists from underrepresented groups and those based in Milton Keynes and the surrounding region are strongly encouraged to apply.

Key Dates

• Applications open: 3 March 2026
• Applications close: 23 March 2026
• Mentoring, studio space and talks: April–May 2026
• Performance platform: 23 May 2026

How to Apply

Artists are invited to submit a short digital application including a CV, video link and statement of interest. Full details and the application form will be available via the MÓTUS website from 3 March.
https://www.motusdance.co.uk/adjustments-2026