DC NEXT - Young Choreographers Program

Dance Canvas is pleased to begin a new program in the winter of 2009, DC NEXT. Part of Dance Canvas' mission is to expose youth the the artform of dance and choreography. This new addition to our Young Artists Programs allows us to spark creativity and help create a new love for the next generation.
Young Dancer from Phusion Performing Arts Alliance
in 2008 Dance Canvas performance.
A: Our "DC NEXT" program will take a class of 15 -20 students through a series of classes, conducted by Dance Canvas. The choreographers will use concepts from ballet, modern and jazz techniques, while implementing improvisation, coordination, and teamwork exercises. The skills and exercises taught during our master classes/workshops are creatively constructed to teach imagination and problem solving. The improvisation exercises will help students to drop self-imposed limitations and encourage them to “think outside of the box.” These students will have an outlet that many would be surprised to see from a dance program. Also, by working so closely with our choreographers, these students will have constant one-on–one conversations about the choreography development, show production, and performance process. These students will have the opportunity to observe professional rehearsals and will be given tickets to the gala Dance Canvas performance, allowing them to see how the choreography process works, from start to finish. Through our program, we know that students will have a new appreciation for dance. As each student passes through our program, we send them back into the community with a stronger tie to the arts and a stronger desire to become supporters.
A: Our DC NEXT program is open to students ages 13-18. All dance abilities welcome to apply.
A: Applications will be online beginning on January 1st for our 2010 Summer Workshop. To receive additional information or an application by mail, send an e-mail to
info@dancecanvas.com and put DC NEXT in the subject line.