Directed by Meredith Barnes and Beth McKee Elliott
Performances
March 14, 2026 at 8:00 p.m.
March 15, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.
The Fredgren Studio Theatre, 3443 Carlin Springs Rd, Falls Church, VA 22041
Application deadline: December 1, 2025
Notification: On or before December 15, 2025
Confirmation: within one week of acceptance
CALL FOR DANCE MAKERS
Applications are open for Small Plates Choreography Festival, a series of two curated dance performances to be presented on March 14, 2026 at 8:00 p.m. and March 15, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. at The Fredgren Studio Theatre, 3443 Carlin Springs Rd, Falls Church, VA 22041
Programming Small Plates invites applications from dance makers across all genres based in the U.S. We are particularly interested in distinctive, impactful dance works that respond to reflect the eclectic and diverse culture of the Northern Virginia region.
Dance works of any dance genre up to 10 minutes in length will be considered for inclusion in one of two performances. Large group pieces are acceptable, and student-choreographed work will be considered.
Venue
The Fredgren Studio Theater is located within BalletNova Center for Dance. It is a 50′ x 27.5′ proscenium-style performance space with 14′ ceiling, wood sprung floor covered with marley flooring. The performance area is set with a traveler and legs and professional lighting.
For more information and to apply, please visit the Small Plates website.
In this episode of the Dance Maker podcast, host Carlye Eckert interviews choreographer Meghan Frederick about her work, practice, and artistic evolution. They dive into the creative process behind Frederick’s score-based piece After Yes, discussing the intentional disruption of flow, the impact of motherhood on her art, and the vulnerability and trust involved in live performance. The conversation also explores audience perception, compositional structures, and how abstraction in dance can serve as a mirror for discomfort and self-reflection. This rich dialogue offers both personal insight and broader commentary on the power of contemporary dance.
Carlye Eckert at Small Plates Austin, 2025 PC Beth McKee Elliott
As I sit down to write this message on what should have been the close of our 2025 season at Small Plates Newburgh, I’m filled with gratitude as I remember the meaningful experiences that unfolded through our performances there. Although we faced the disappointment of having to cancel Small Plates Newburgh 2025, I am especially thankful for Carlye Eckert’s collaboration and for the vibrant experiences at Chapman Steamer Arts that brought new life to post-pandemic Small Plates.
Beth McKee Elliott
This season has regardless been filled with remarkable moments, including four successful performances over two locations – Duck, NC and in Austin, TX. Each choreographer, dancer, and collaborator has contributed uniquely to the vibrant tapestry of creativity that defines our mission.
So with this close to our 2025 season, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the incredible artists who brought their their creative work to our stages this year, and extend my deepest thanks to everyone who has given time, talent, and funds to support Small Plates Choreography Festival in 2025.
Looking ahead, I am excited about our plans to host Small Plates NOVA in March, to continue our summertime event in Duck, NC, and return to New York venue next November. I hope you will be part of Small Plates 2026.
Beth McKee Elliott
Creator & Director, Small Plates Choreography Festival
