Everything We Wish for the Dance World in 2018

December 25, 2017

2017 was full of memorable dance moments, but as we start the new year, we can’t help but wonder what it will bring to the stage and the field at large. Here’s what the Dance Magazine team is wishing for in 2018.

A Can’t-Miss Show

“What I’m dying to see in 2018 is Akram Khan‘s new—and last-ever—solo show, Xenos. It’s premiering in Athens, Greece, in February, and I’m keeping my fingers crossed so hard that he announces some tour dates to the U.S. He’s one of those artists whose works can make you see the world differently, and his brilliant hybrid contemporary/Kathak technique is simply magnetic when performed by his own body. Treat us one last time, Akram!” —Jennifer Stahl, editor in chief

Innovative Leadership and Safer Workplaces

“The interim management team assembled at New York City Ballet following Peter Martins’ leave was a smart surprise. For all arts organizations, I wonder about the potential for more innovative leadership structure. Also, how can arts organizations and their leadership inspire and encourage innovation in all aspects of operation, production, artistry and engagement? In light of what motivated the moves at NYCB, my wish is for workplaces free of the abuses reported, and for the broad organizational shifts required to accomplish that.” —Raymond Mingst, creative director

More Work from These Women, Plus Cheaper Rehearsal Space

“More ballets from Lauren Lovette, Gemma Bond and Gianna Reisen. More affordable rehearsal space in NYC (but elsewhere, too). More kindness, not just to our fellow dancers and dancemakers but to ourselves.” —Courtney Escoyne, assistant editor

Musicals with Original Stories, Plus More Positivity Onstage

“I’d love to see some fresh, completely new stories on Broadway next season. Songbook musicals and film-to-theater projects can be fun, but getting swept up by something totally original is exhilarating. I’d also like to see more art that uplifts audiences and performers alike, by celebrating the differences and similarities that make the dance community—and the world—a rich place.” —Madeline Schrock, managing editor

Policies That Advocate for Art


A protest in Phoenix. Photo by Einar E Kvaran.

“Federal threats of decreased funding for the arts, changes in tax and health-care policies, and limits on access to information suggest that 2018 could be a scary year for dancemakers. I wish for state and local policies that push back and advocate for artists, and for solidarity amongst the dance community.” —Lauren Wingenroth, assistant editor

More High Fashion Onstage

“I would love to see more collaborations between dance and fashion. New York City Ballet and Paris Opéra Ballet worked with some really cool designers this past year—NYCB with Off-White’s Virgil Abloh and POB with Balmain’s Olivier Rousteing—and I think it’s a fun way for both sides to reach new audiences. I’d love to see this expand to more companies and include younger/up-and-coming designers.” —Marissa DeSantis, assistant editor

Grants for Newer Artists, Plus Dance That Addresses Cultural Issues

“I want to see more grant opportunities for newer artists. We know about the MacArthur Fellows Program, MAP Fund and Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, but those are for artists who are already very much established. I also would like to see more crossover between dance and cultural issues (harassment, bias in dance criticism, etc). Certain projects like Wise Fruit and Gibney Community Action are doing a great job of this, and I think more organizations could do the same.” —Kelsey Grills, assistant editor audience engagement