In 2026, NSCD Lecturer Carlos Martinez will join the ADAGIO jury and contribute to the festival’s masterclass programme.
ADAGIO, the internationally recognised dance meeting based in Ourem, Portugal, enters its fifth year as a global platform for artistic exchange, professional development and collaborative learning. Bringing together dance students, educators and leading artists, the event celebrates an environment of shared experience and creative commitment.
ADAGIO is known for convening exceptional artists from major international dance companies and training institutions. Representatives from organisations such as American Ballet Theatre, Joffrey Ballet School, Nederlands Dans Theater (NDT), The Royal Ballet and choreographers including Nacho Duato come together each year to judge, teach, create and inspire.
The event continues to expand its reach and reputation, offering young dancers the opportunity to engage closely with leading practitioners from across the global dance community.
Carlos’s involvement this year came through an invitation from Sharon Watson, Principal and CEO of Northern School of Contemporary Dance.
“I was invited by Sharon Watson, which was an honour and a wonderful surprise,” Carlos shares. “Sharon has previously served on the ADAGIO jury, so there is already a positive history of collaboration. I have also worked with many of the artists involved before, making this a natural and exciting continuation of those connections.”
As part of the festival’s masterclass programme, Carlos will teach Cuban Contemporary Dance, offering students a dynamic and culturally rich approach to contemporary movement.
“ADAGIO brings together a remarkable range of artists,” he adds. “From American Ballet Theatre and Joffrey Ballet School to NDT, there is an extraordinary spectrum of dance practice represented.”
Our undergraduate students have the invaluable opportunity to learn directly from leading artists such as Carlos, whose expertise and international experience enrich the training environment every day. We encourage prospective students who are interested in contemporary dance training to explore our undergraduate programmes and begin their application.
Applications to study at NSCD are now open. Find out more and apply here.
