Shared Ground

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English National Ballet’s artist support scheme

An initiative led by English National Ballet’s Engagement team, to give east London based independent dance artists and creatives an inspiring space at Mulryan Centre for Dance to explore and enrich their creative practice. We offer a themed Ideas Incubator, networking opportunities, and a Space Scheme which is free of charge to dancers and choreographers, as part of our ongoing commitment to nurturing creative professional development in our community.

Shared Ground: Space Scheme

This scheme offers independent dance artists the freedom to develop their artistic practice at Mulryan Centre for Dance, without expectations of a return. Applications are open to choreographers or dance artists from any dance background, who are resident in East London or who can demonstrate that the majority of their work is based in East London.

The next residency will take place from Mon 17 to Sat 22 Nov 2025.

Studio space is offered for 5 days to dancers/choreographers with 5+ years’ experience and for 3 days to early career artists via an application process on the following dates:

3-day residency – LMCT Studio, suitable for up to 8 dancers

Mon 17 – Wed 19 Nov 2025
Thu 20 – Sat 22 Nov 2025

5-day residency – Nureyev Studio, suitable for up to 25 dancers

Tue 18 – Sat 22 Nov 2025

How to apply

To apply to the Shared Ground: Space Scheme in a written format:
Click here to apply

To apply in a visual or verbal format, please see the application questions here and email your response in MP3/MP4 file to becky.david@ballet.org.uk.

Shared Ground: Space Scheme Application FAQs

What is the deadline for Shared Ground applications?

The deadline for all applications to Shared Ground: Space Scheme is 10am, Monday 27 October 2025. Successful applicants will be notified by Monday 3 November.

Who should I contact if I need support with my application?

If you require support with your application, please contact becky.david@ballet.org.uk.

Do you have to work in a classical dance style to apply?

This offer is open to choreographers working in all dance styles.

Is there an expectation of a performance outcome at the end of the process?

This opportunity is focused on research and development. There is no expected performance at the end of the residency.

Are any other time blocks available for studio space?

Studios at English National Ballet are extremely sought after and as such the dates advertised are those available for the space scheme.

What times are studios available?

Studios are available from 10am-6pm.

Are there age restrictions for this programme?

You must be 18 or over to apply for the Shared Ground: Space Scheme opportunity.

Further application information

Ideas Incubator

Hear from English National Ballet’s Head of Creative Programmes Laura Harvey and Executive Director at Chisenhale Dance Space Reece McMahon

Ideas Incubator Lab

The Ideas Incubator Residency is co-curated in collaboration with Chisenhale Dance Space and gives time and studio space to Choreographers and Dance Artists interested in developing their practice and taking part in a creative exchange.

Choreographers are supported by an experienced mentor, collaborate with dance artists and guest creatives to develop and exchange ideas and have full use of a rehearsal studio at English National Ballet’s studios, Mulryan Centre for Dance.

For further information please contact engagement@ballet.org.uk.