Creative Tank

Apply by Friday 7 August, 5pm for Stopgap Dance Company's Creative Tank, a dynamic three-day workshop led by their experienced artistic team.

Designed for Disabled and non-disabled professional artists, performers, choreographers, and those in training, Creative Tank offers a focused and supportive environment for artistic growth and experimentation. 

This practical laboratory is designed to enrich, evolve and expand your dance practice through innovative movement exploration, collaboration, and creative exchange. 

Programme Overview

1. Optional Settling-In Session, Monday 7 September, 3-4.30pm
Begin with an informal introduction to the company, schedule, and fellow participants. This session provides an opportunity to align expectations, ask questions, and foster connections before the intensive begins.

2. Three Days of Immersive Practice, Tuesday 8 - Thursday 10 September, 11am-4pm
Engage in movement exploration that is physically and creatively rich with sessions that integrate Stopgap’s signature approach to inclusive dance. Expect:

• Choreographic tasks tailored to diverse movement vocabularies
• Collaborative improvisation and supportive feedback
• An introduction to Stopgap’s Translation Method  

Who Should Apply?
This workshop is ideal for professional and emerging artists including performers, choreographers, and those in dance training seeking to:

• Deepen their practice through collaborative exchange
• Explore innovative, inclusive approaches to dance
• Engage with an experienced and leading Inclusive Dance Company 

Uncertain if Creative Tank aligns with your practice? Stopgap are happy to discuss. Please reach out to Lucy Bennett to learn more by emailing [javascript protected email address]

Accessibility & Support

Stopgap is committed to ensuring an inclusive and accessible experience for all participants. We welcome all movement and learning styles, and our team will work with you to tailor support where needed.

Available support includes:

• Travel assistance
• Discounted places for Access/Dancer Support Roles 

For further details or to discuss your access needs, please contact Lily Norton, Stopgap’s Content and Access Artist, email [javascript protected email address]

How to apply

Deadline for applications is Friday 7 August, 5pm.

You can apply to join us for Creative Tank 2026 via the online application form, here. 

If you'd prefer to apply another way, we welcome audio and video applications, there is also a word only form available below. If you'd like to chat through the form, please contact our Project Manager, James Greenhalgh, email [javascript protected email address]

Once you have submitted your application, you will receive a follow-up email with more information and a link to payment details.

Fees
3 days - £250

Companion / access workers who are also participating in the workshop - £125 
Access workers not participating in the workshop – free

A payment plan is available for the cost of Creative Tank, which can be adjusted to further suit your needs if requested.

Bursaries

Stopgap are offering two funded places for Creative Tank. Each place is supported by a dedicated bursary, designed to remove barriers to participation and open the programme to those who might not otherwise be able to attend.

Distance Access Bursary

• This is for people who face a financial barrier due to the cost of travel to Creative Tank
• To be eligible you must be travelling more than three hours to attend, and financial support must be a deciding factor in whether you are able to come

Dave Toole Bursary

• This bursary is for people who are physically Disabled or have a physical impairment, and for whom financial support is a deciding factor in being able to attend Creative Tank

Both bursaries are chosen by lottery. Stopgap does not require proof of eligibility, but please consider carefully whether these bursaries are the right fit for you.