THE 20TH ANNUAL OAKLAND DANCE FESTIVAL
November 20-21, 2026
Registration opens October 1, 2026 at 8am

We invite you to join us for an inspiring weekend of learning, sharing, and networking at the 19th Annual Oakland Dance Festival (ODF)! This year’s event brings together college representatives and professional company directors to offer participants an unmatched wealth of training, mentorship, and opportunities in dance.

The festival is open to private dance studios, high school dance programs, and individual students eager to take advantage of:

• Innovative master classes in multiple dance styles

• On-site recruitment & scholarship auditions

• Performance opportunities with professional feedback

• Two exciting showcase concerts
  
  

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

Professional Showcase Concert - Friday, November 20, 2026

featuring the Maggie Allesee Choreography Award Competition Finals -  Live Performance & Screendance

Full Day for Dancers Ages 13–18 - Saturday, November 21, 2026

MASTER CLASSES | RECRUITMENT & SCHOLARSHIP AUDITIONS | COLLEGE SHOWCASE | PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS

• Participate in diverse master classes taught by college/university faculty and professional artists.

• Present original choreography for feedback and possible showcase selection.

• Enjoy live performances by college and professional dancers.

• Explore higher education pathways in dance through our College Fair.
  
  

College Recruitment & Scholarship Auditions

High school 9th-12th graders interested in pursuing dance in college or summer intensives can audition on-site for priority consideration, awards, and scholarships.

Past participating institutions include:
Central Michigan University • Eastern Michigan University • Grand Valley State University • Oakland University • Wayne State University • Western Michigan University • Madonna University • Hope College • University of Michigan - Ann Arbor • Cleary University • Alma College • Michigan State University • University of Michigan - Flint • Northern Michigan University • Ball State University, along with top Michigan summer intensives offering partial and full scholarships.

Performance Evaluations & Feedback

Bring your solos, duets, or group pieces in any style. Perform in an intimate setting before a panel of distinguished college and professional company artists, receive constructive critiques, and get a jumpstart on your competition/performance season.

Select performers will be invited to appear in the College Showcase Concert that evening, and all evaluated works will be considered for the Michigan Youth Dance Festival.

Master Classes & Workshops

Styles include Modern, Contemporary, Ballet, Improvisation, Partnering, Hip Hop/Street, African Dance, Pilates, Yoga, and more - taught by top-tier college and professional faculty.

College Fair

Meet one-on-one with recruiters and directors, gather program materials, and explore the institutions that align with your dance and academic goals.

Mark your calendars:

• Registration Opens:  October 1, 2026
  
  

• Professional Showcase Concert: Friday, November 20, 8:00 p.m.
  
  

• College Showcase Concert: Saturday, November 21, 7:00 p.m. (featuring invited high school performers)
  
  

We can’t wait to welcome you to a weekend of artistry, opportunity, and inspiration.