World Dance Alliance

This July, the World Dance Alliance (WDA), hosted by the Department of Dance and the Society for Canadian Dance Studies at York University, (Toronto, Canada), brings together dancers and dance practitioners from over 20 countries to focus on themes of diversity. With the purpose of creating a better future for dancers on a global scale, this important event provides advocacy and communications for dance organizations and individuals alike. Held in Toronto (recently designated as the most multi-cultural city in the world by Unesco) this forum includes intensive workshops, networking sessions, performances by over 30 dance companies and artists (both international and local), an innovative program for youth, and over 100 keynote speakers. Focusing on the exchange of ideas and an awareness of dance as an art, ritual and traditional expression, WDA works to protect dance repertoire in all forms by preservation in notation, film and other media. In celebration of the opening of York University's new Fine Arts facilities-including a new proscenium theatre and recital hall, state of the art lecture and seminar rooms, and eight dance studios-this exciting event places Toronto on the map as an international leader in contemporary dance and cultural exchange.