About
Dance Italia: International Contemporary Dance Summer Intensive in Italy
Dance Italia is a leading international contemporary dance summer program in Italy, offering rigorous professional training in the historic city of Lucca. Now celebrating 15 years, Dance Italia brings together advanced students and professional dancers from around the world for an immersive 3- or 4-week contemporary dance intensive focused on technique, repertory, creative process, and performance.
Set within Tuscany’s rich cultural landscape, Dance Italia combines world-class instruction with a vibrant international community—making it one of the most distinctive summer dance intensives in Italy.
Why Choose Dance Italia
Premier Contemporary Dance Training in Italy
Daily contemporary technique classes grounded in clarity, individual artistry, and physical intelligence, led by internationally recognized artists.International Faculty & Global Perspective
Study with a rotating roster of acclaimed choreographers, educators, and performers working across Europe and the U.S.Performance-Focused Experience
Dancers engage in repertory and creative processes culminating in public performances in Lucca, emphasizing artistic voice and professional practice.Ballet and Yoga as Supportive Training
Ballet and Yoga classes are offered to strengthen alignment, coordination, and efficiency—supporting the contemporary movement practices in the curriculum.15 Years of Excellence
Founded with a mission to foster cross-cultural exchange and artistic growth, Dance Italia has become a trusted destination for a rigorous, committed, and exploratory summer training with highly individualized attention.
Program Overview
Location: Lucca, Italy
Program Length: 1 Week, 2 Weeks, 3-Week or 4-Week Options
Season: Summer 2026 (June 13–July 10)
Level: Advanced students & professional dancers
Daily Training Includes:
Contemporary technique
Creative process & choreographic research
Repertory
Ballet & Yoga (supportive technique)
Performance preparation
Dance Italia emphasizes process, curiosity, and individuality, offering dancers space to deepen technique while engaging with contemporary performance practices.
Contemporary Dance Intensive Rooted in Place
Lucca’s historic architecture, walkable streets, and intimate performance spaces create an ideal environment for focused study and artistic exchange. Classes and rehearsals unfold within a city that invites reflection, connection, and inspiration.
Dance Italia is not only a training program—it is a cultural immersion, encouraging dancers to experience Italy while cultivating their craft.
Who Dance Italia Is For
Dance Italia welcomes dancers who are:
Seeking professional-level contemporary dance training in Europe
Interested in international exchange and performance experience
Ready to engage deeply with technique, creativity, and process
Looking for a summer program that balances rigor with inspiration
Participants come from universities, conservatories, independent companies, and freelance careers worldwide.
Outcomes & Community
Dance Italia alumni have gone on to perform with professional companies, pursue MFA programs, create independent work, and build international careers. The program fosters lasting artistic relationships and a strong global network.
Testimonials and alumni highlights reflect Dance Italia’s commitment to mentorship, excellence, and artistic integrity.
Accomplishments
PARTICIPANTS
Dance Italia has welcomed over 590 students from 25 countries around the world, including Albania, Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Costa Rica, Denmark, England, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Israel, Japan, Korea, Lebanon, New Zealand, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the US.
SCHOLARSHIPS
DI has awarded over $91,700 in scholarships, with support from our University partners — Sam Houston State University and Indiana University — and private donors.
Within the city of Lucca, DI has received support from the Comune di Lucca, Fuoricentro Danza, Arte & Danza Arabesque, and Pantera Volley, with additional support from K2, La Bottega di Anna e Leo, In Pasta, Isola che non c’era, Marco Polo, Marameo, and Ristoro La Casermetta S. Salvatore.
Past editions in Agropoli received institutional funding from the Comune di Agropoli, Ente Parco Nazionale del Cliento, Alburni e Vallo di Diano, BCC Comuni Clientani.
Lucca Mayor, Alessandro Tambellini honors DI for its outstanding contribution to the arts community in Lucca.
Sponsors
CORPORATE DONORS
8th Street Wine Bar, 68 Jay Street, Broadway Dance Center, Children and Teens, FAIRWAY,
Johnson & Johnson, The Duke Energy Foundation, & Macmillan Publishing / Anne Hellman
