Making Dance
From Studio to Stage
![National Arts Centre Theatre []](/upload/dan/NAC_theatre_full.jpg)
Booking a Venue
There are many different venues in which dance can be presented. The choice depends not only on the size of the actual production but also on the budget. Other considerations include the expected size of the audience and the number of shows planned.
As well, the choreography itself may be best suited to a particular space: for some it may be an opera house, for others an intimate theatre. Today, many choreographers are also creating work for unconventional spaces including art galleries, warehouses, parks and other outdoor locations.
Knowing the character of the production and understanding the project's limitations, particularly the budget, will help in the decision-making process. The advantage to presenting in an established theatre is that certain logistics such as seating, stage lighting and box office procedures will be in place. However, creative thinking can yield some exciting and unusual venue options.
![Empty studio, Studio 303 [Stephen Hues]](/upload/dan/Studio303inMontreal_full.jpg)
One of the most essential things to consider in choosing a venue is the dancing surface. Generally speaking, dancers need a smooth, flat, responsive floor (i.e. not concrete) in order to prevent injuries. Sprung wood floors are ideal. Often dance floors are covered in a special portable flooring material called marley, which provides consistent texture and friction for the performers. Presenting in an alternative venue may require creative technical arrangements in order to ensure the dancers' health and safety.
Once the performance dates are confirmed, the production schedule and deadlines may need to be revised.
