Big Pulse Dance Alliance

A network of 12 European dance festivals and institutions brought together by their common aim of developing and strengthening the contemporary dance sector.

Big Pulse Dance Alliance (BPDA) concludes in 2024, after four years of creative collaboration between 12 leading dance festivals and institutions across Europe. The project has aimed to strengthen the contemporary dance sector, support choreographers, and promote sustainable models of artistic work.

Led by Tanz im August/HAU Hebbel am Ufer (Germany), the network included partners such as Dance Umbrella (UK), Julidans (Netherlands), Dublin Dance Festival (Ireland), and CODA Oslo International Dance Festival (Norway). Together, they produced and presented groundbreaking works for both indoor and public spaces and addressed challenges posed by COVID-19.

The project also focused on talent development and diversifying programming, creating works for large venues and public spaces. Through leadership programs and local Pulse initiatives, BPDA has fostered connections between artists, communities, and festivals, while providing a platform for discussions on how dance can adapt and thrive in uncertain times.

The Visiting Artist Program, initiated through BPDA, will continue to support selected artists by providing unique opportunities to immerse themselves in creative environments and gain insight into international processes. The program focuses on developing artistic capacity and connecting artists with communities and will play a key role in ensuring the long-term impact of the project. More information about the program can be found here.

To ensure a lasting impact, BPDA has also launched Big Pulse Pathfinders, a series of digital guidebooks offering insights, practical advice, and tools for artists, festivals, and arts workers. These guides are an important resource for navigating the complex dance sector landscape and creating innovative, sustainable projects.

BPDA has demonstrated how international collaboration can drive lasting change and inspire an entire sector. Learn more about the project and resources at bigpulsedance.eu.