The Dance Residency at Nrityagram is a fully funded month-long programme specifically designed for Indian classical Dancers. Nestled within an intentional dance village, this process-oriented residency offers a rare sanctuary for independent research, rehearsal, and reflective practice away from daily performance pressures. Participants receive complimentary accommodation at Kula, all meals, and studio access, fostering growth within a nurturing artistic community. Designed to deepen individual practice and innovate within tradition, the programme will host individual dancers, duos, and groups in small, rolling cohorts.

The inaugural season of the residency will take place from June 1, 2026 to June 30, 2026
Application Deadline: May 10, 2026

Project and Concept

The programme aims to remove logistical and financial barriers to allow for deep engagement with the craft.

Key Facilities and Benefits

Kula Residence for Artists at Nrityagram

Nrtityagram offers 4 weeks of housing at Kula: Residence for Artists which features eight twin-bedroom units with attached bathrooms and a common living room and kitchenette. All meals are provided throughout the duration of the stay.

Residents have access to professional dance studios, as well as additional indoor and outdoor creative spaces including the Amphitheatre, Kula, the Yoga Centre (which is open to the sky, so hours could be limited), and the Dining Hall during fixed hours. Residents will also receive Wi-Fi and basic administrative support. The programme is fully funded. Participants are responsible only for their travel to and from Nrityagram and any personal expenses incurred outside the provided amenities.

The Dance Commons Initiative

The residency is a core component of the broader Dance Commons initiative, which seeks to transform the often "lonely and anxious" journey of the individual dancer into a collective experience. Initiated by Nrityagram’s Artistic Director Surupa Sen, the Dance Commons serves as a space for young dancers to imagine collective futures and find kinship.

Participants in the residency are encouraged to contribute to or create "Commons" infrastructure, which includes:

Developing dance appreciation and awareness to build new audiences.
Creating shared resource pools for items like dance costumes and repair.
Establishing new performance spaces in unconventional venues or private homes.
Building shared teaching resources and rehearsal spaces.
Facilitating the sharing of performance calls and professional opportunities.

Ultimately, the residency serves as an investment in the future of Indian Classical dance by fostering a cohort of empowered artistes who remain rooted in tradition while remaining open to innovation.

Application

Dance Residency at Nrityagram 2026
Residency period: 4 weeks over Date to Date
Application deadline: May 10, 2026
Selection: June 15, 2026

Application Process

Applications are invited from Indian classical dancers with at least 6 years of experience in any dance form.

Applicants are selected based on a review that emphasises clarity of intent, a demonstrated commitment to Indian classical dance, and a readiness to engage in self-directed research or rehearsal.

Nrityagram offers the freedom to create in an intentional community where dance is integrated into daily life, the residency allows participants to grow artistically away from the pressures of performance.

We are particularly interested in supporting artistes who have not had many opportunities to ...

Applicants should be available for either 4 consecutive weeks or 2 blocks of 2 weeks during the residency period.

FAQ

How much dance experience do I need to have to qualify for this residency?

You should have at least six years of Indian classical dance experience.

Is there an age limit?

Dancers should be a minimum of 18 years old. There is no upper limit.

What costs are covered by Nrityagram?

Nrityagram covers room and board. Selected residents are responsible for covering their travel to and from Nrityagram.

Is it possible to apply as a duo or collective?

Yes.

Can I bring a partner / child?

Yes, but at your/their own cost. Extra persons will be charged for meals and accommodation.

Do I have to spend 4 consecutive weeks in the residency?

It is preferred to do the 4 weeks as a single block, but it can be split into two 2-week blocks if required.

Are the rooms shared?

We have 8 rooms with two twin beds. You can choose to share your room or be a sole occupant.

Are there other spaces available other than the studio?

Yes. You can also use the Amphitheatre, Kula (the living room is designed like a studio/stage and has been used for work-in-progress showings and small performances), the Yoga Centre (open to the sky, so hours may be limited), and the Dining Hall during certain hours.

Is it possible to apply for the residency if I am a student?

Yes.

Applications are open to Indian classical dancers with at least 6 years of experience in any dance form. We welcome applications from individuals, duos, and groups.

Applicants are selected based on clarity of intent, a demonstrated commitment to Indian classical dance, and a readiness to engage in self-directed research or rehearsal.

The application deadline is May 10, 2026. Selected residents will be notified by June 15, 2026.

Apply for the Dance Residency