Global, celebratory, rigorous, and engaging, the Bates Dance Festival is dedicated to offering a transformative dance experience to all who participate, whether as practitioners, enthusiasts, or scholars.

Situated in Central Maine, the Festival hosts an international roster of artists in a collaborative and joyful community. Bates Dance Festival rigorously trains established and emerging dance artists through workshops, community-oriented programs, and advances the field by supporting new work. From local youth to global professionals, the Festival convenes to create, perform, and witness vibrant and vital dance works.

The Bates Dance Festival is comprised of four interwoven programs: two professional training programs including the Young Dancers Workshop (YDW), a rigorous three-week program serving pre-professional dancers ages 14-18; the Professional Training Program (PTP) serving dancers ages 18 and up; a main-stage performances series featuring renowned contemporary dance artists from around the world and community outreach activities including the Youth Arts Program serving local youth ages 7-16 with dance, music, theater and visual arts training.

History

Learn about the History of the Bates Dance Festival.

Staff

Meet the staff behind the Bates Dance Festival.

Blog

See what’s new! Check out the BDF blog.

Current Supporters

Thanks to those who support the Bates Dance Festival.