SUBMISSIONS

A completed submission form and submission video (or videos) are all that is required to submit.

At least one video is required and you can submit a max of three. Your submission video should be of high quality and at least 1 minute in length.

Note: A past Urbanite performance video cannot be your sole submission, however, it can be included as one of your supporting videos.

INFO: Be as detailed as possible on your submission form. The more info that can help distinguish you from other submissions the better.

VIDEOS ARE KEY!:

• Ultimately, make sure that your video gives a strong and accurate representation of what you will be bringing to the Urbanite stage with PERFORMANCE in mind - for example blocking and formatting is a plus.

• Submissions should reflect recent work. Preferably videos no more than 1 year old.

• Videos made specifically for your submission are fantastic, but absolutely not a requirement.

• Class videos are generally *not* a good representation of your stage performing ability, but can be good auxiliary supporting videos. Please never submit class videos of choreo that is not your own.

• Solo dance videos are *not* good as a sole submission video (but can be good auxiliary supporting videos). We are looking to see how your group will look on stage.

• Reminder: A past Urbanite performance video should not be your sole submission, however, it can be included with other videos.

There are many factors to selecting the ideal lineup for a particular show and market. At a micro level, the selection crew will be looking at choreography, entertainment level, musicality, skill, execution, creativity, uniqueness, and energy. At a macro level, they will be looking at teams’ style, vibe, genre, and diversity of the lineup as a whole.

At the end of the day, there are a very limited amount of slots and an excess of amazing and deserving talent to fill those slots.

You will need to have a web link for your video to submit properly via the online portal. The ideal method is via YouTube link (or Vimeo or any video streaming service). You should upload your video to YouTube and paste the link in the form. An alternate method is to upload your videos to a Google Drive and utilize the share link. Dropbox, WeTransfer, and other third-party storage services work as well, however, YouTube/Vimeo link is preferred.

Important note: If using Drive, please make sure all security parameters are set for open access.

The official submission close date will be announced when the next portal opens. Please note: if we receive an unusually high volume of entries, we may close submissions earlier than the announced deadline. If that happens, we’ll always give at least 24 hours notice.

To maximize your chances, we recommend submitting early. All completed submissions received before the deadline—official or adjusted—will be fully reviewed for the show.

Once you send in a full submission (form and videos) your submission will go up for review by the Urbanite review board. Note that all valid submissions received within the submission period are reviewed.

Official notice of your team/project status will be given after the submission period has closed AND all entries have been thoroughly reviewed. Depending on the quantity of entries, this could take up to 12 days after the close of the submission period. Communication will come via email.

Yes. Please email go@urbanite.co with your Team/Project Name, Director Name, and original submission date.

Note that, if selected, your official team/project name can still be edited upon acceptance into the lineup!

Every show is different depending on the market, venue, special guests, etc. Typically an Urbanite show has anywhere between 18-22 performing teams.

If your group is accepted into the Urbanite lineup, you’re in elite company! The commitment is straightforward:

• Show Day (Saturday): Teams should plan to be available for the full day of the event. This includes technical rehearsal, dress rehearsal, and the showcase in the evening.

• Pre-Show Programming (Friday): There will be additional programming the day before the show, which typically includes check-in/registration, workshops, and an all-cast welcome gathering.

• Director Meetings: 1-2 virtual director meetings are required – one introductory meeting upon acceptance will be mandatory. One prep meeting leading into show-week may be added or made optional.

Key Rules + Regulations (Required):

• Maximum set time: 4 minutes and 30 seconds

• No performer may appear in more than one group in the lineup

• All roster and music deadlines must be met (exact dates will be shared upon acceptance)

The next show—Urbanite Chicago 2026—will take place April 10-11, 2026.

Workshops and kick-off party will take place on Friday, April 10. The main Showcase will be Saturday, April 11, 2026 @ The Metro (3730 N Clark, Chicago, IL).

Tickets will go on sale in February.

Keep checking www.urbanite.co for further show details!

Urbanite Chicago is an 18+ show. Performers under the age of 18 are allowed with parent/guardian approval. Guests under the age of 18 are also allowed with parent/guardian attendance.

Urbanite is very intentionally not a competition. Our foundation is built on support, community, and collaboration. Urbanite exists as a space for showcasing work, connecting with other teams and choreographers, and building relationships across the dance community — not for judging or ranking.