Diversifying Curatorial Stewardship

The Diversifying Curaatorial Stewardship Programme (DCS) is Dance Umbrella's multi-year initiative (2026-2028) designed to transform curatorial leadership within the UK and international dance ecology. 

The project responds to a clearly evidenced sector gap: the absence of visible, supported career pathways for curators - particularly Black/Brown Global Majority, predominantly female-identifying and non-binary practitioners- and the resulting lack of diversity within those who shape artistic programmes, narratives and decision-making. 

DCS aims to create structural, long-term change by widening who curates, how curation is practiced, and who has access to networks, resources and influence. 

Guest Curator 2027

The network is inviting applications from cultural practitioners with a passion for dance and performance who are ready to hone their curatorial voice. You will curate and deliver one main event as part of Dance Umbrella Festival 2027 and tour it to another partner festival or venue.  

As part of this role, you will also receive sustained mentoring, participate in professional development programmes, and attend national and international networking opportunities.  

Duration: 14 months (September 2026 to November 2027)

Commitment: 48 days across the cycle, part-time and flexible

Contract Type: Freelance

Location: Remote/flexible, with attendance at events and the festival

Fee: £12,000 (approx. £250 per day)

Travel Stipend: Available for work viewing and international platforms

Deadline to Apply: Mon 13 Jul 2026, 10am 

Full job description & how to apply:

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Curatorial Fellow

This brand-new Fellowship is designed for someone who is curious about curation and wants to develop a deeper understanding of how dance and performance programmes are shaped, produced and presented. You do not need to have previous curatorial experience to apply for this role. 

The Fellow will attend Dance Umbrella’s 2026 and 2027 festival, shadowing the DU team at key points, getting first-hand experience of how a major international dance festival is programmed and delivered. You will also have the opportunity to attend national and international networking opportunities, and get access to mentoring and professional development tailored to where you are in your career.  

Time Period: 13 months (September 2026 to October 2027)

Commitment: Flexible; built around specific professional development opportunities in January 2027, April 2027 and October 2027

Stipend: £3,000 plus travel and access budget

Location: Remote/flexible with travel to London, Ipswich and Limerick 

Deadline to apply: Mon 13 Jul 2026 

Full job description & how to apply: 

Apply >

Information Session

Monday 29 June 2026, 11:00am BST

Online

An opportunity to hear from Dance Umbrella’s Artistic Director, Freddie Opoku-Addaie about Diversifying Curatorial Stewardship (DCS) and ask any questions you may have about the advertised Open Call. 

Register to attend