Quinzena de Dança de Almada returns in 2026 with a programme that brings together contemporary dance performances, premieres, artistic residencies, professional gatherings, screendance and community activities.
Organised by Companhia de Dança de Almada, the festival once again establishes Almada as one of Portugal’s leading centres for contemporary choreographic creation, welcoming artists, companies and presenters from across the world.
September 25th marks the opening of the 2026 edition with the premiere of a new production by Companhia de Dança de Almada, “A Espera do Baleiro”, created by Galician choreographer Xián Martínez in co-production with Agadic (Centro Coreográfico Galego). Inspired by the shared traditions of Portugal and Galicia, the work explores the dialogue between two cultures connected by a common heritage that dance continues to reinterpret.
Throughout the festival, Almada will also host Nalini Cia de Dança, from Brazil, with “Titiksha”, a work that declares dance as a gesture of resistance; the IVONA company, directed by Italian choreographer Pablo Girolami, which will present “T.R.I.P.O.F.O.B.I.A. - The End”; and “Felices” | work-in-progress, the result of an artistic residency by Clara Ferrão Diz and Andrea Quintana, developed within the scope of the Atopémonos Bailando – Residencias Artísticas e Investigación programme.
The International Platform for Choreographers brings together twenty three works by dance companies and independent choreographers from different countries, offering a broad perspective on today’s choreographic landscape. At the same time, there will be site-specific performances and a diverse programme of workshops inviting local communities and participants of all ages to experience dance firsthand.
The 2026 edition also marks the launch of Saracoteio – Screendance, a new programme dedicated to dance films and dance videos produced in Portuguese-speaking countries. Developed in partnership with Macau and Cape Verde, the programme presents works from Cape Verde, Macau, Brazil, Mozambique, Guinea-Bissau and Portugal, expanding perspectives on contemporary dance through the moving image.
Finally, on October 11th, the festival's closing performance belongs to the choreographer Carla Jordão, now based in Germany, who returns to her hometown to present a work featuring dancers from Companhia de Dança de Almada alongside students from Ca.DA Conservatório de Dança de Almada, bringing together different generations of performers.
Quinzena de Dança de Almada is a meeting place for artists, audiences and dance professionals, where contemporary dance crosses disciplines, connects cultures and creates new ways of reflecting on the world we live in.
Sep. 14, 2026
