Applications are now open to be one of our next Phoenix Fridays’ artists in 2026.  

About Phoenix Fridays

Phoenix Fridays is an artist development programme, which aims to support Leeds-based freelance dance artists working on ongoing projects, particularly those looking to increase their visibility across the sector.  

Recognising the needs of freelance artists regarding studio time, space, exposure, and expanding networks, Phoenix Fridays was launched to offer local artists access to in-kind studio space, and time to research and create with our company dancers. 

How you will be supported 

Selected artists are supported with their creative development by receiving feedback and guidance from Phoenix Dance Theatre’s Artistic Director and Head of Artistic Management. Phoenix Fridays artists also have the opportunity to engage with the wider staff team here at PDT, whether that is through costume, lighting, fundraising, marketing, or education and outreach. During the programme, artists will have the opportunity to share their work at an informal sharing event hosted at Phoenix HQ.  

Former Phoenix Fridays artist and current Associate Artist, Mayowa Ogunnaike says:

“Phoenix Fridays is a fantastic opportunity. I really appreciated how I could tailor the programme to suit my needs and desires and even just having the time, space and amazing dancers to work with has been so invaluable. Since working with the company in this way, I have been able to develop a more comprehensive understanding of my practice and I’m excited to expand on this and continue my relationship with Phoenix this year as an artistic associate.”  

Key information

Residency dates:  

• 2 weeks in April 2026 – Artist 1 residency
• 2 weeks in July 2026 – Artist 2 residency 

Fee: £1500

Location: Phoenix Dance Theatre, LS2 7PA  

Application deadline: Friday 27 February 
(Please note that we will be contacting applicants following the deadline and not before)   

How to apply 

Complete the application form below including:  

• Basic contact information 
• a short, written expression of interest 
• submit your CV
• Option to submit additional content to support your application (showreel, examples of previous work, additional notes, etc)  

Please also complete our Equal Opportunities Monitoring form available here.

This is for monitoring purposes only and is important for reporting to our funders. It will be detached from your application and the data shared will be treated confidentially. 

If you have any questions, access requirements or need support with your application, please contact admin@phoenixdancetheatre.co.uk  

This initiative is made possible with support from Arts Council England in response to the challenges freelance artists face, as they endeavour to gain support from and increase production opportunities with arts and funding organisations at large.