Global, celebratory, rigorous, and engaging, the Bates Dance Festival (BDF) 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. . This sample class is led by Natalie Gotter, Director of Training Programs.
Equal parts celebration, community-building, and strong technical practice, this movement class invites you into the BDF experience where we will dive through the floor, fly through the air, sweat so much, and laugh a lot and learn more about the 2026 Festival including internships, scholarships, and any questions you have. The class will be rooted in both Contemporary Modern vernacular and social dance practices, offering a small sample of what you will experience at Bates this summer!