The partners of the project – Dance Umbrella (Great Britain), Dublin Dance Festival (Ireland), Julidans (Netherlands), New Baltic Dance (Lithuania), ONE Dance Week (Bulgaria), Torinodanza Festival (Italy), Zodiak – Center for New Dance (Finland), Sismògraf Dance Festival (Spain), International Festival TANEC PRAHA (Czech Republic), CODA Oslo International Dance Festival (Norway) and Danscentrum (Sweden), under the guidance of Tanz im August/HAU Hebbel am Ufer (Germany) – will jointly participate in the production of new works, look for new talents and develop the leading position in the dance sector.

With the help of professional knowledge and the European network, the partnership will face challenges that festivals and choreographers in Europe have to cope with. Regarding the huge impact of the current covid crisis, it is necessary to state and accept measures that adequately support the dance sector.

The two production lines – works for the stage and performances in public space – will be guidelines for BPDA to support choreographers in their transition from the works for small and medium-size stages to those designed for big spaces. The programme aims to offer a more extensive programme on big stages and approach a bigger audience through the free outdoor programme. The line in the public space is engaged in the development of new concepts and models designed for international tours with the participation of local communities.

BPDA will also expand the capacity of artists and the cultural sector. The project aims to support art and project management using the leadership programme and define tools to overcome challenges in the working environment. Local artists and other key participating parties will meet at local Pulse initiatives and will discuss key information and topics that are essential for the dance sector and national festivals. The long-term aim of the project is to establish an unrestrained and permanent network of dance festivals in Europe.