JUMP START
JUMP START is MÓTUS Dance's annual youth dance platform celebrating all forms of dance from across the region whilst also making connections with national partners and youth dance leads. Young dancers have the opportunity to showcase their work in a professional theatre, take part in workshops with leading dance artists, and learn from insightful careers talks.
JUMP START is also affiliated with the U.Dance national programme in partnership with One Dance UK and South East Dance. See information about JUMP START '27 below!
WHEN AND WHERE IS JUMP START?
The date of JUMP START ‘27 is 18 April 2027, held at The Venue MK, Milton Keynes, a 380-seat theatre. It is a full day consisting of technical rehearsals on stage, workshops and talks with incredible professional dance artists in dance studios, and a performance at in the evening in front of friends and family.
All dancers are required to be present from 09:30 until 21:00.
WHO CAN APPLY?
We welcome dancers from all styles who create a performance piece between 2 and 7 minutes in duration. Dancers can be between 8 and 19 years old, and up to 25 for those with a disability. Groups or individuals may apply, and must be accompanied by Group Leaders at all times.
MÓTUS is partnering with South East Dance and One Dance UK to present a U.Dance Regional Platform as part of JUMP START '27. This pathway forms part of the selection process for the U.Dance National Festival and is subject to additional criteria.
Taking part in this pathway is completely optional. Contact us at schools@motusdance.co.uk to find out more.
HOW CAN MY GROUP TAKE PART?
Taking part in JUMP START is free for groups and all participants. Ensure you have done the following:
1) Contact schools@motusdance.co.uk to be sent the relevant forms, which will be released mid October
2) Read the Eligibility and Group Leader Information document
3) Read the Safeguarding Guidelines document
4) Record your piece in rehearsal (it may be part-completed)
5) Fill in the Application Form and return by 20 January 2027, along with a link to footage of your piece.
Key JUMP START '27 Dates
Mid October - Applications open!
20 January - Applications close
Early February - Programming update
17 April - JUMP START '27
Check out some of our favourite images from recent JUMP START platforms!
All photos: Factotum Film
