DIW Incubator
Free studio residencies for local D.C. artists who need space to create, rehearse, and prepare for their next opportunity. Application-based, no cost to the artist.
- WhoLocal D.C. artistsChoreographers, performers and multidisciplinary artists
- CostNo cost to the artistEverything listed is provided free
- How many2 to 3 a yearEach tailored to the artist’s project and timeline
- WhereDIW studiosPerformances at the Fabian Barnes Black Box Theater
About the programMaking space for creators from all walks of life
DIW recognizes that many local artists in Washington, D.C. cannot afford to rent studio space to prepare for gigs, tours, auditions, and other performances. The Incubator program exists to close that gap.
Through the Incubator, DIW offers residencies to underserved local artists at no charge. Selected artists receive dedicated time in our professional studios to develop, rehearse, and refine their work, with the full resources of a world-class facility behind them.
DIW hosts two to three Incubator residencies each year. Each residency is tailored to the artist’s project and timeline, and can roll into a public performance at the Fabian Barnes Black Box Theater. Incubator performances sit outside the DIW season, giving artists the freedom to present work on their own terms.
Every Incubator residency includes
The Incubator program removes the financial barriers between you and your next body of work. Everything listed below is provided at no cost.
Free Studio Access
Dedicated rehearsal time in DIW’s professional studios with sprung floors, mirrors, and sound systems. Scheduled around your project needs and timeline.
Performance Opportunity
Residencies can culminate in a public performance at the Fabian Barnes Black Box Theater, with technical support, front-of-house coordination, and marketing assistance from DIW.
Mentorship and Guidance
Access to DIW’s network of choreographers, directors, and industry professionals who can provide feedback, creative guidance, and connections to advance your career.
Facility and Resources
Full access to DIW’s 14th Street facility, including changing rooms, kitchen, lobby, and common areas. A professional home base for your creative practice in the heart of D.C.
Promotional Support
DIW amplifies your work through its communications channels, social media, and community networks, helping you reach new audiences and build visibility.
Creative Independence
Incubator performances are independent of the DIW season. You maintain full artistic ownership of your work and present it on your own terms.
Local D.C. artists who need space to create
The Incubator program is designed for artists in the Washington, D.C. area who have the talent and the vision but lack access to affordable, professional studio space.
Artists developing original work who need dedicated rehearsal time and a professional environment to bring their creative vision to life.
Solo artists and small ensembles preparing for gigs, tours, auditions, or showcases who cannot afford commercial studio rental rates.
Movement-based artists working across dance, theater, and performance art who need space and institutional support to develop new projects.
Three steps to your residency
Tell us about yourself, your artistic practice, and the project you want to develop during your residency. Include your timeline and any performance goals.
DIW reviews applications based on artistic merit, project clarity, and alignment with our mission of equity and access. We will be in touch to discuss next steps.
Once selected, we will work with you to schedule studio time, connect you with mentors, and support your creative process from rehearsal through to performance.
Submit your application
Tell us about yourself, your artistic practice, and the project you want to develop during your residency.
DIW Incubator
Free studio residencies for local D.C. artists who need space to create, rehearse, and prepare for their next opportunity. Application-based, no cost to the artist.
About the Program
Making Space for Creators From All Walks of Life
DIW recognizes that many local artists in Washington, D.C. cannot afford to rent studio space to prepare for gigs, tours, auditions, and other performances. The Incubator program exists to close that gap.
Through the Incubator, DIW offers residencies to underserved local artists at no charge. Selected artists receive dedicated time in our professional studios to develop, rehearse, and refine their work, with the full resources of a world-class facility behind them.
DIW hosts two to three Incubator residencies each year. Each residency is tailored to the artist’s project and timeline, and can roll into a public performance at the Fabian Barnes Black Box Theater. Incubator performances sit outside the DIW season, giving artists the freedom to present work on their own terms.
What You Receive
Every Incubator Residency Includes
The Incubator program removes the financial barriers between you and your next body of work. Everything listed below is provided at no cost.
Free Studio Access
Dedicated rehearsal time in DIW’s professional studios with sprung floors, mirrors, and sound systems. Scheduled around your project needs and timeline.
Performance Opportunity
Residencies can culminate in a public performance at the Fabian Barnes Black Box Theater, with technical support, front-of-house coordination, and marketing assistance from DIW.
Mentorship and Guidance
Access to DIW’s network of choreographers, directors, and industry professionals who can provide feedback, creative guidance, and connections to advance your career.
Facility and Resources
Access to DIW’s network of choreographers, directors, and industry professionals who can provide feedback, creative guidance, and connections to advance your career.
Promotional Support
DIW amplifies your work through its communications channels, social media, and community networks, helping you reach new audiences and build visibility.
Creative Independence
Incubator performances are independent of the DIW season. You maintain full artistic ownership of your work and present it on your own terms.
Who It’s For
Local D.C. Artists Who Need Space to Create
The Incubator program is designed for artists in the Washington, D.C. area who have the talent and the vision but lack access to affordable, professional studio space.
Emerging Choreographers
Artists developing original work who need dedicated rehearsal time and a professional environment to bring their creative vision to life.
Independent Performers
Solo artists and small ensembles preparing for gigs, tours, auditions, or showcases who cannot afford commercial studio rental rates.
Multidisciplinary Artists
Movement-based artists working across dance, theater, and performance art who need space and institutional support to develop new projects.
How to Apply
Three Steps to Your Residency
1
Submit Your Application
Tell us about yourself, your artistic practice, and the project you want to develop during your residency. Include your timeline and any performance goals.
2
Review and Selection
DIW reviews applications based on artistic merit, project clarity, and alignment with our mission of equity and access. We will be in touch to discuss next steps.
3
Begin Your Residency
Once selected, we will work with you to schedule studio time, connect you with mentors, and support your creative process from rehearsal through to performance.
Ready to Create?
If you are a D.C.-based artist who needs space to develop your work, the DIW Incubator was built for you. Apply today.