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YOUR DREAM STARTS HERE

SUMMER INTENSIVE TORONTO, CANADA
JULY 27 - AUGUST 2, 2026

Program Overview

The CDL Summer Intensive is for dancers looking to deepen their technical training while expanding their creative practice.

In a focused and collaborative environment, you’ll train in contemporary movement daily, explore works currently presented professionally & internationally, and engage in a guided creative process. Alongside this, you’ll receive one-on-one mentorship from working artists, offering insight shaped by real experience in the field.

CDL is built for dancers who are curious, committed, and ready to actively engage in a professional-level training environment.
Dancers ages 13+ are welcome to apply.

Program tuition: $750 CAD

Location: Elite Danceworx
2nd Fl, 150 Bullock Dr, Markham, ON L3P 1W2

Time	Class	Description
9:30 - 11:00	Ballet	Technical forms in a creative mindset. How can ballet serve you in freer forms?
11:15 - 12:45	Contemporary	Deep dives into fundamental movement techniques, working on the integrity of the body and expression in solo and partnering formats.
12:45 - 1:30	Lunch
1:30 - 3:15	Repertoire	Get exposure to a wide range of repertoire from influential choreographers. Explore different styles within the form.
3:15 - 3:45	Discussions	Time dedicated to sharing the ins and outs of pursuing dance. More details in the tab above.
4:00 - 6:00	Creation	In smaller groups, dancers collaborate with a CDL Choreographer to create a new work over the week-long intensive.

Discussions & Professional Development

As much as dance is about physical knowledge and ability, it is also about practical knowledge. We aim for all participants to leave feeling empowered in their understanding of opportunities and equipped to navigate individual journeys within the dance world.

Topics We Explore With Dancers

What do sustainable and realistic career pathways in the contemporary dance world look like today?
How can dancers maintain physical, mental, and emotional well-being while pursuing a professional career?
Which post-secondary training programs best support different artistic and career goals?
How do dancers transition between training, creation, and professional work?

Parent Information Session

The final day includes a dedicated session for parents and guardians, offering insight into the realities of the dance industry and how to best support dancers.Topics include:

How can parents support dancers through training, transitions, and career decisions?
What are realistic educational and professional pathways within the contemporary dance field?
How can families help foster long-term well-being and sustainability in a dancer’s career?

Creation

A highlight of our intensive program is the chance for students to develop original work alongside accomplished choreographers.

In small groups, students collaborate to create new pieces, which are presented at the end of the week. Dancers are encouraged to balance their artistic expression with the choreographer's vision. This intensive process begins on day one and culminates in a final performance.

How to Apply

Requirements

No-fee application!

All dancers must apply online and submit a headshot, resume, and two contrasting 1–2 minute pieces, such as ballet and contemporary, or lyrical and improvisation.

Timeline

February 1 – Applications open

March 15 – Early Bird Deadline

April 1 – Accepted dancers must register to secure Early Bird tuition

May 31 – Regular applications close

Financial Aid

Limited financial assistance is available. Requests must include a statement in Section 3. Applicants receiving aid may be asked to assist with program-related activities.

Past Creation - Summer 25

Past Creation - Summer 25

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READY TO APPLY?

Take the next step in your dance journey. Submit your application for the CDL Summer Intensive and join us this summer.

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