UPDATE 6/16 @ 12:37pm: This workshop has now reached capacity. If you would like to be on the waitlist for this workshop or future iterations, you can join the list HERE.
OCTOBER 19-25 2026
CONCLUDES WITH LIVE PERFORMANCE IN NYC
This workshop is geared towards energetic beginner and intermediate dancers looking for an opportunity to perform in NYC. I’m seeking dancers of all ages and levels of experience with a motivation to perform. Over the week, we will build a new contemporary dance work that will lead to a final performance on OCTOBER 25th.
In that show, you will also have the opportunity to perform your own solo work that you can choreograph or commission from an outside choreographer.
This workshop focuses on performance techniques, contemporary movement qualities and building confidence in performance spaces. The environment is built for dancers to explore, challenge themselves and find joy through dance!
Here are the highlights:
15 hours of rehearsal with Brandon to build a new group work with all participants
Dancers choreograph or commission their own solos to perform in the show with an optional feedback session from Brandon once the solos are choreographed.
Show takes place in a 100+ seat theater in NYC
For dancers who are excited by the idea of performing for the first time or the first time in a while.
The performance will be filmed and all participants will receive photos/videos.
Post show toast to celebrate!
Full Schedule
Monday, October 19 // 6:00–9:00 PM (studio rehearsal)
Wednesday, October 21 // 6:00–9:00 PM (studio rehearsal)
Thursday, October 22 // 6:00–9:00 PM (studio rehearsal)
Friday, October 23 // 6:00 -9:00 PM (studio rehearsal)
Saturday, October 24 // 12:00 - 4:00 PM (studio rehearsal)
Sunday, October 25 // 11:30 AM- 8PM (tech + performance)
11:30 AM - 2:00 PM – Tech run-through
2:00 PM - 3 PM – Prep for performance
4 PM – Performance and toast to follow!
** Participants must be available for all rehearsals and performances
* Sunday’s schedule is subject to change and dancers should hold 10a-10p on that day.
Dates: October 19-25
Ages: 18+
Level: Intermediate / Energetic Beginners
Performance: Sunday, October 25, 4:00 PM
Location: Gibney: Agnes Varis Performing Arts Center
Cost: $500 for solo entry + participation in group dance
** These videos feature Brandon’s past work on Intermediate to advanced dancers.
FAQ
Do I need to be present for all group rehearsals?
Yes. Due to the expedited process, it’s important that dancers are free and available to build the best possible work for the performance.
When you say “contemporary”….does that mean the solo I perform has to be contemporary?
Nope! You can perform any style your heart desires. In this workshop, “contemporary’ means “now” so any form of movement that puts you in the moment and makes you feel the most confident!
What if I want to perform a duet?
You’re more than welcome to perform with a friend! If you want to go with this option, email Brandon at info@brandoncolemandance.com to discuss options.
Do I have to choreograph my own solo?
Nope. You are more than welcome to commission your own solos to perform in the show. This is an opportunity to find yourself in the spotlight so you get to decide what moves make you feel the most empowered and confident in your abilities.
How long can each solo be?
Each solo should not exceed 2-3 minutes in length. Due to the volume of dancers in the show, it’s important that we stick to this strict time limit.
Is there a limit to the number of participants?
Yes! this workshop is limited to 20 dancer max. In order to make the best work and show a wide variety of pieces.
Is rehearsal space for my solo provided?
No. However, there are many spaces in the city that offer affordable studio rentals including (but not limited to):
Gibney Dance 280/890, Battery Dance, City Center Studios, Bridge for Dance (103rd), Mark Morris Dance Center, Dance Lab Studios, Arts on Site and more.
How can my friends and family watch the show?
As we approach the show date, dancers will be provided with a link for the audience to purchase tickets. All tickets are general admission and we’re expecting a full/sold out house!
Are there scholarships or discounts?
While there are no current scholarships or discounts, dancers can email Brandon at info@brandoncolemandance.com what options may be available.
I consider myself a professional dancer, can I participate?
Not this time. While I have opportunities for professionals, this project is for dancer who don’t or are no longer pursuing professional careers.
Do I have to audition?
Nope! This is open to anyone with a desire to perform and excited to create and collaborate!
OTHER QUESTIONS? Feel free to reach out to Brandon via email: info@brandoncolemandance.com
ABOUT BRANDON
Photo by Hannah Mayfeild
Brandon Coleman (he/him) is NYC based educator, choreographer and performer from Katy, Texas. He’s a former cast member and rehearsal director for Punchdrunk’s SLEEP NO MORE in NYC and has worked with companies including Visceral Dance Chicago, KEIGWIN + COMPANY, the Metropolitan Opera ballet, VIM VIGOR Dance Company and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago.
Additionally, he has worked with choreographers and directors including Mandy Moore, Baye & Asa, Annie B. Parson, Austin McCormick, Belinda Mcguire, Sommer Ulrichson and Marguerite Donlon.
In 2020, Brandon began producing his own work including a short dance film, Drift, with choreographer Florian Lochner of FLOCK and a new immersive work, Broken Record, with Kayla Farrish, which premiered on The Little Island in NYC in August 2021. His dance film, "ROLLBACK" premiered in May 2023 as a part of the Future Dance Festival presented by 92NY Harkness Mainstage Series.
His work has been commissioned and presented by Houston Contemporary Dance Company, Ormao Dance Company, the High School for Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, fireWALL Dance Theater, the Steps on Broadway Conservatory, Southeastern Missouri State University, Boundless Contemporary Dance Company, DeSales University and Arts On Site in NYC.
As an educator, he currently teaches weekly contemporary classes at Steps on Broadway and Peridance. Since 2025, Brandon has lead regular ALL LEVELS contemporary classes in NYC. In addition to his work in the studio, he is the host of Breaking the Wall Podcast which provides tools and advice for early-career and pre-professional dancers (130 episodes).
Brandon is a 2015 graduate of the University of Arizona, where he received his BFA in Dance and BA in Communication. In 2026, he was awarded alumni of the year for the College of Fine Arts. INSTAGRAM: @itsBrandonColeman
