"FREE Queens Choreographic Lab: Creation of a New Contemporary Dance Work by sarAika movement collective"

Queens deserves more accessible spaces for contemporary dance education and creation.

This 6-day free LAB was created to support the next generation of artists by providing high-level training and performance opportunities without financial barriers.

A chance to train, create, perform, and collaborate with sarAika movement collective — completely free.

We are now accepting applications from 10 pre-professional and emerging dancers to join a 6-day intensive choreographic lab in Long Island City from July 6~11, 2026 at @cucaladancestudio.

This is not just a workshop.
This is a collaborative creative process leading to the creation and premiere of a new contemporary dance work.

Led by NYC-based choreographers and educators Sara Pizzi & Aika Takeshima, participants will experience:

— Contemporary dance technique & movement research
— Creative research & composition
— Collaborative rehearsal process
— Performance opportunity
— Community dialogue & mentorship

This LAB aims to help emerging dancers deepen their artistic voice, expand their collaborative experience, and build connections that support their future creative paths.

We will build a new work from the ground up — exploring movement, ideas, and human connection through an intensive shared process.

The project will culminate in a public performance in LIC featuring:
— the premiere of the newly created work
— repertory by sarAika
— interactive audience improvisation
— guest performance by Cucala Dance Company
— post-show artist conversation

> FREE TO PARTICIPATE
> Limited to 10 dancers
> Full commitment required for all classes & rehearsals

Applications are NOW OPEN — but spots are limited and the deadline is June 15th.

Apply now and be part of a new contemporary dance creation process in Queens.

APPLY HERE > https://forms.gle/KPyiyfZ7UGBp19zo6