MANCC Forward Dialogues

MANCC Forward Dialogues (MFD) (2017, 2019, and 2024, to date) identifies, catalyzes and supports the dynamic ideas of emergent movement-based artists based in the U.S. and its territories in a facilitated, process-oriented laboratory setting. Unlike a more typical MANCC residency that encourages artists at all stages of a project to work independently, including just before a premiere, the MFD program is devised for robust collaborative exchange and dialogue among participants. The program also aids MANCC in developing relationships with the next generation of dance makers by learning about and supporting their evolving artistic practices.

Movement-based makers are invited to apply based on nominations from both field leaders nation-wide and prior MFD participants, and to propose a collaborator to bring with them to the lab. Review of proposals leading to selection of the participating pairs of artists by the program facilitators is based on 1) a demonstrated commitment to artistic practice and experimentation, 2) a vision for the future of one’s creative practice, 3) an openness to discourse and collaborative inquiry, and 4) a strong desire to be part of a working lab with peers that prioritizes the generative exchange of ideas. Collaborators in the past two labs have ranged from being dancer/performers, composers, visual artists, writers, scholars, a Korean opera singer, and a DJ, each acting as thinking partners to develop ideas at and beyond their time at MANCC.