International ChoreoLab Austria (ICLA) is a pilot project at Danube University Krems (DUK) in cooperation with Tanz Atelier Wien (TAW). This project is dedicated to providing continuous education in the context of dance/performance and choreography on a university level. The main focus of the project is to foster interdisciplinary discourse on an expanded understanding of choreography, linking contemporary dance, theoretical excursions and contextual performativity across the disciplines.

The concept for the International ChoreoLab Austria was created in 2008 by the choreographer and dancer Sebastian Prantl and the pianist Cecilia Li – heading Tanz Atelier Wien – and the Department for Arts and Management under Gerhard Gensch at DUK. The pilot project creates an interface for interdisciplinary choreographic positions with art-based research, thus conducting a vivid, innovative scientific discourse with architecture, music, film, subsequently further with medicine, social sciences, psychology, anthropology and other strongholds at DUK.

The unique starting point consists in the synergy between two institutions and locations:
Tanz Atelier Wien is an Austrian pioneer in the artistic interpretation of contemporary dance, music and interdisciplinary research, fostering manifold projects and productions which it networks internationally from its city lab in Vienna.
Danube University Krems is a ground breaking pioneer of the lifelong learning concept, located at Campus Krems.

During the pilot phase for a university study program in choreography and performance studies, innovative approaches to theory and practice have been investigated from 2009 till 2011. Practice and contextually relevant theories in various connected fields were taught in three exemplary project modules, characterized by a high level of internationality and a unique quality, in regard to the professional diversity and a strong motivation among the participants and contributors. Each module raised and enhanced a specific time relevant topic and placed a special focus on a specific world region (Europe and North America; Africa and South America; Asia).

After a restructuring of the faculties of the Danube University Krems in autumn 2011, the faculty of Art, Culture and Building (Renate Hammer, Eva Maria Stöckler and Gerald Trimmel) and the Tanz Atelier Wien (Sebastian Prantl and Cecilia Li) are in the process of drawing up and implementing the ChoreoLab as an innovative two-year interdisciplinary study program with an international acknowledged university degree. Starting in 2012, the course of study culminates in various multifaceted artistic productions. On a European level there is an objective to develop a joint venture program and production for fostering interdisciplinary enterprises that takes place in various countries in cooperation with different Universities.

Detailed information is available on www.icla.at (Danube University Krems). For further information and inquiries you are also welcome to contact us by phone or e-mail.

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