THE seventh edition of the pioneering Dance 2 Connect (D2C) LAB launches this week in Limerick, offering an intensive three-day workshop for Irish and international dance artists. The programme, which fosters innovation in movement, will culminate in a work-in-progress showcase at the Irish World Academy of Music & Dance, University of Limerick, this Wednesday April 2, at 4:15pm.
To attend the D2C Lab showcase performance at University of Limerick on Wednesday April 2 please email [email protected]
Founded by Promenade-supported artist Matt Szczerek, the D2C LAB is a unique professional development programme that bridges the worlds of street dance and contemporary dance theatre. Each year, selected participants collaborate with an esteemed guest choreographer and mentor, pushing the boundaries of their craft. The initiative is funded by The Arts Council of Ireland, with additional support from Dance Ireland and, for the first time this year, Ireland’s national dance company, Luail. In 2025, D2C will expand its reach, hosting three labs across Ireland in Belfast, Dublin, and Limerick.
This year’s D2C LAB mentor is Dutch dance artist Ques Zaalman, one of Europe’s leading figures in the Krump dance scene. With nearly two decades of experience in international dance battles, media productions, and educational programmes, Zaalman brings a wealth of knowledge to the workshop. His influence extends beyond performance, as he is also known for his activism, organising, and teaching within the dance community.
Previous D2C LAB mentors have included renowned figures such as Mark “Brui5er” Sheats, Lisa Berman (MonaLisa), Joseph Tran (MN Joe), Elon Hoglund of Tentacle Tribe, Antony Missen from Company Chameleon, and Joseph Toonga of Just Us Dance Theatre.
The D2C LAB is open to intermediate and advanced dancers across all genres. Through an intensive application process, selected participants are granted the opportunity to merge street dance techniques with contemporary choreography, fostering artistic growth and cross-genre collaboration.
Curator and founder Matt Szczerek, a Dublin-based dancer and choreographer, is eager to bring the latest edition of D2C to audiences across Ireland. Known for his expertise in Krump, Breaking, and contemporary dance, Szczerek has performed with CoisCéim Dance Theatre and is actively involved with Dance Ireland and ISACS. He also serves as the creative director of Human Collective and choreographer for Kundle Cru.
The piece being developed at the Limerick D2C LAB will be rooted in Krump with contemporary influences, exploring the theme of liberation in times of unrest. “It will delve into the concept of confinement and pose the question of what liberation means to us all,” Szczerek explains.
To attend the D2C Lab showcase performance at University of Limerick on Wednesday April 2 please email [email protected]
