Caroline Plummer Fellowship in Community Dance

The Caroline Plummer Fellowship in Community Dance is New Zealand's premier international community dance residency, offered annually by the Caroline Plummer Memorial Trust and the University of Otago. Established in 2004 in memory of Caroline Plummer (1978–2003), the Fellowship honours her belief in dance as a force for healing, education, cultural understanding, and artistic expression.

The Fellowship is open to community dance practitioners, teachers, and researchers from anywhere in the world. No university degree, professional qualification, or membership of a dance organisation is required — what matters is your passion for community dance and a compelling project.

The tenure runs for six consecutive months, typically from 1 March to 31 August each year. The Fellow is based at the Humanities Division of the University of Otago in Dunedin, with access to office space, dance facilities, and collegial support. Travel and relocation assistance to Dunedin may be available, subject to Advisory Board approval and available funds.

In 2027, the stipend is NZ$53,688.50, comprising NZ$48,688.50 in salary and NZ$5,000 for project costs — equivalent to a full-time University of Otago Lecturer's minimum salary over six months.

As Fellow, you'll work full-time on your community dance project, support teaching and curriculum development within the Dance Studies programme at the School of Performing Arts, and complete at least one public activity that advances community dance practice nationally or internationally. A comprehensive report is due within two months of completing the Fellowship.

Previous recipients may reapply but may not hold the Fellowship more than twice. No preference is given to New Zealand citizens or any particular group — all applications are assessed on merit by the Advisory Board.