The Rotterdam International Duet Choreography Competition (RIDCC) returns to Rotterdam from 18 to 20 June 2026, bringing together some of the most promising choreographers from around the world. Hosted at Theater Zuidplein, the eighth edition of the internationally acclaimed dance competition will showcase sixteen selected choreographers competing for a range of prestigious awards, including the highly coveted XL Production Award worth €100,000.
Rotterdam welcomes the next generation of choreographers RIDCC has become one of Europe’s leading platforms for emerging choreographic talent. This year, more than 400 applications were submitted from across the globe, with sixteen choreographers ultimately selected to present their duet performances in Rotterdam. While countries such as the United States, Italy and Spain continue to be strongly represented, the 2026 edition also reflects a growing number of submissions from Asia and South America, highlighting RIDCC’s expanding international reputation. For many participants, the competition is more than a chance to win. It serves as a valuable platform for networking, artistic exchange and career development within the global contemporary dance community. Competing for the €100,000 XL production award One of the highlights of RIDCC 2026 is the XL Production Award, a unique prize valued at €100,000. Made possible by Scapino Ballet Rotterdam, Stichting Droom en Daad and RIDCC, the award gives the winning choreographer the opportunity to create and produce an original large-scale dance production. As one of the most significant choreography awards in the world, the prize has become a major draw for ambitious dance makers looking to take the next step in their careers. In addition to the XL Production Award, ten Partner Awards will be presented by leading international dance institutions, including Nederlands Dans Theater (NDT), Club Guy & Roni and the Acosta Dance Foundation. The audience will also have the opportunity to vote for the Audience Award winner. Three evenings of contemporary dance at Theater Zuidplein The competition unfolds over three nights at Theater Zuidplein:
18 June 2026 – Preliminary performances
19 June 2026 – Preliminary performances
20 June 2026 – Grand Final and award ceremony
An international jury will evaluate the performances during the preliminary rounds and select the choreographers who advance to the final. A global dance event in Rotterdam Founded by artistic directors Maya Roest and Mischa van Leeuwen, RIDCC continues to position Rotterdam as an important destination for contemporary dance and talent development. According to the founders, the competition offers emerging choreographers a unique opportunity to present their work to both local and international audiences while connecting with fellow artists and industry professionals from around the world. Experience international dance in Rotterdam With sixteen choreographers, diverse cultural influences and a programme filled with innovation and creativity, RIDCC 2026 in Rotterdam promises three inspiring evenings of contemporary dance. For dance enthusiasts, cultural visitors and industry professionals alike, the competition offers a unique opportunity to discover the choreographic talent of tomorrow while experiencing one of Rotterdam’s most exciting international cultural events.
