What does the future of dance look like when shaped by community? 

And how can we cultivate the local dance communities with international connections?

This year, we took these questions (and a full programme of activities) to Stretch 2026 in collaboration with Dance Fest Skopje, in North Macedonia. From 23 – 24 April, our signature conference & showcase programme hosts talks, professional development workshops, and networking opportunities, connecting local talent with the international dance community.

Stretch is an itinerary event concept created by our team at diagonal, offering expertise artists rarely get enough of: time and space for meaningful connections to happen, by bringing together local artists and international creatives. 

Our programme of conference, networking, and showcase events is curated by the dance community and open to the wider creative sector. First launched in London in 2023, Stretch has developed into an intimate incubator for artistic exchange, professional development, and collaboration. Each edition grows organically through co-curation, open discussions, and skill-sharing, making it a unique space where artists actively shape the conversations and activities that matter most to them.

Rather than a traditional conference format, Stretch embraces an artist-led spirit. It invites artists not only to participate, but to contribute — to share knowledge, propose ideas, and build relationships that extend beyond the event itself.

Following editions in London, UK, and Sofia, Bulgaria, we continue taking Stretch on the road to find vibrant creative dance communities and create space for new conversations, ideas, skills, and connections to emerge. 

We are truly grateful to have the opportunity to bring Stretch to North Macedonia, as part of the programme of Dance Fest Skopje 2026, the country’s biggest contemporary dance festival, which celebrates its 22nd edition this April. We look forward to sharing time and space with local and international artists and building something truly meaningful together.

Check the full programme here.