Shared Ground
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
The Space Scheme is part of English National Ballet’s artist support scheme, Shared Ground, with the aim of giving east London-based independent dance artists and creatives an inspiring space, free of charge, at the Mulryan Centre for Dance in which to explore and enrich their creative practice without expectations of a return.
Applications are open to 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.
When is the next Space Scheme?
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.
3-day residency
Suitable for up to 10 dancers.
Mon 30 Nov – Wed 3 Dec 2026 OR Thu 3 – Sat 5 Dec 2026
5-day residency
Suitable for up to 25 dancers.
Tue 1 – Sat 5 Dec 2026
Find out more about what each residency offers, and alternative ways to apply please look in our FAQs below.
The deadline for all applications is Monday 19 October, 10am.
For further information please contact engagement@ballet.org.uk.
FAQs
Applications are now open!
Apply to Shared Ground NowThe application deadline is Monday 19 October, 10am.
In this application form, we will ask you about your dance experience, what you would like to achieve during the residency, and why you would benefit from this opportunity.
To apply to the Shared Ground: Space Scheme in a written format, please fill out the online application form here.
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.
Applications from artists who meet the criteria outlined will progress to consideration in a selection process managed by members of ENB’s Engagement team.
The Space Scheme is part of English National Ballet’s artist support scheme, Shared Ground, with the aim of giving east London-based independent dance artists and creatives an inspiring space, FREE OF CHARGE, at the Mulryan Centre for Dance in which to explore and enrich their creative practice without expectations of a return.
Applications are open to 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. Residencies are available across the year on stipulated dates: studio space is offered for 5 days to dancers/choreographers with 5+ years’ experience, and for 3 days to early career artists. Applications are essential.
We offer two different types of residencies, dependant on the requirements and space.
3-day residency
Suitable for up to 10 dancers.
Dates:
Mon 30 Nov – Wed 2 Dec
Thu 3 Dec – Sat 5 Dec
Our Engagement studios offer state of the art facilities:
- London Marathon Studio = 74m2
- Harlequin sprung dance flooring
- Surround sound speakers with smart phone dock
- Lectern with mini computer screen for playback
5-day residency
Suitable for up to 25 dancers
Tue 1 Dec – Sat 5 Dec
Our larger rehearsal studios offer state of the art facilities:
- Studio size = 15 wide x 15 deep x 5.5h high metres
- Harlequin sprung dance flooring
- Surround sound speakers with smart phone dock
- 55” screen
- Piano available on request
- Natural light from floor-ceiling windows
- Mirrors and ballet barres on 2 – 3 walls (mirrors can be covered)
This offer is open to choreographers working in all dance styles.
This opportunity is focused on research and development. There is no expected performance at the end of the residency.
Studios at English National Ballet are extremely sought after and as such the dates advertised are those available for the space scheme.
Studios are available from 10am-6pm.
You must be 18 or over to apply for the Shared Ground: Space Scheme opportunity.
For further information relating to this opportunity, please contact engagement@ballet.org.uk or call 020 7590 2921.
Ideas Incubator Lab
Shared Ground: 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.
