ISPA Netherlands Fellow Maya Roest is the Co-Artistic Director of the Rotterdam International Duet Choreography Competition
In 2017 I co-founded the Rotterdam International Duet Choreography Competition (RIDCC) together with Mischa van Leeuwen. RIDCC is a unique annual dance competition that brings together new choreographic voices with renowned artistic leaders and programmers, both nationally and internationally. More than 400 choreographers from all over the world, across a wide range of dance styles, apply each year to take part. Each year, 16 duets are selected to join the RIDCC community, gaining access to its network and professional development opportunities. RIDCC works closely with leading Dutch and international dance institutions to create Partner Awards that offer greater visibility, access to influential industry contacts and, in some cases, the opportunity to develop new work within an established company.
The idea for RIDCC grew from a desire to give emerging choreographers a real chance to develop and be seen, particularly as we saw how many talented artists struggled to find meaningful opportunities. We wanted to create a platform where choreographers could focus on developing their craft, get paid fairly and build their professional profiles. Since its founding in 2017, RIDCC has become the world’s largest duet choreography competition. It offers the biggest dance prize in the world – including the XL Production Award – as well as Partner Awards from international institutions such as Dutch National Ballet, NDT, Skånes Dansteater and Scapino Ballet. Competitors also benefit from a supportive community and talent development programmes.
For us and for many former RIDCC participants, it is much more than a competition. It is a place where choreographers receive coaching, attend masterclasses and connect with a wide range of dance professionals. This nurturing environment helps artists navigate the dance world with greater confidence. RIDCC is not just about winning a prize; it’s about entering a system that supports your growth while honouring your unique voice.
The programme is designed to provide long-term support that extends far beyond the competition itself. As RIDCC grows, so does its network of alumni. Through the RIDCC Brings Back initiative, past winners return to take part in events we organise, as well as projects with festivals and partner institutions. In this way, the programme creates a cycle of lasting professional relationships.
The greatest compliment we can receive is when someone says, “Because of RIDCC, my career took off.” That’s when we know we’ve done something meaningful.
RIDCC 2026 takes place in Rotterdam from 18 to 20 June. A livestream will be available online. For tickets, visit ridcc.com
