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YOUR DREAM
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CDL SUMMER INTENSIVE TORONTO, CANADA
JULY 27 - AUGUST 2, 2026

Program Overview

The CDL Summer Intensive is designed for dancers seeking to strengthen their technical foundation while expanding their creative range. In a supportive, and collaborative environment, participants receive high-level technical training, explore contemporary movement practices, engage in one-on-one mentorship, and gain opportunities to create and perform original work. All dancers ages 13+ are welcome to apply and are encouraged if they are curious, committed, and ready to fully engage in a professional training environment.

Program tuition: $750 CAD

Limited financial aid is available through application

Early Bird Special: Register by March 31 for $650 tuition

Location: Elite Danceworx, Markham, ON

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

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

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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