The Canadian Network of Dance Presenters (CanDance)

The Canadian Network of Dance Presenters, commonly referred to as CanDance, is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advancing the field of dance presentation in Canada. Registered under Business Number 885724419RR0001, CanDance serves as a collaborative platform for professional dance presenters across the country, fostering a thriving, sustainable, and inclusive dance ecology.

Overview

CanDance functions as a network of dance presenters who actively promote the collaborative creation and presentation of diverse dance forms within Canada. Its members include 46 professional dance presenters who cooperate on commissioning and touring projects, artist showcases, and professional development activities. These collaborations aim to increase the Canadian public's access to dance and enrich their experience of dance events.

Mission and Values

The organization is guided by core principles of collaboration, connection, inclusion, transparency, and service. CanDance's mission emphasizes nurturing a robust and diverse network of dance presenters and venues nationwide. The network strives to cultivate a healthy and sustainable environment where multiple dance communities can flourish, recognizing dance as a vital art form that transcends language and bridges cultural differences.

Activities and Partnerships

CanDance is actively involved in various initiatives to strengthen dance infrastructure and artist support in Canada:

• It participates in the Atlantic Canadian Dance Network (ACDN), an informal partnership among five presenter networks that share resources, professional development opportunities, and peer mentoring to enhance dance presentation nationally.

• The organization works closely with the Canadian Dance Assembly on advocacy and research initiatives to support dance artists and the sector at large.

• CanDance is a member of the Canadian Association for the Performing Arts (CAPACOA) and contributes to their annual National Networks Meeting, which addresses challenges faced by the presenting sector collectively.

Commitment to Inclusion and Recognition

The CanDance Network acknowledges that its staff and members live and work on the traditional territories of Indigenous peoples who have cared for the land now known as Canada since time immemorial. The organization commits to fostering inclusivity and respect within the Canadian dance community.

Online Presence and Outreach

CanDance maintains an active online presence to connect members and the wider community, sharing updates about projects, opportunities, and dance-related events. Through these communications, CanDance promotes its goal to nurture a vibrant and sustainable dance ecology across Canada.

This summary reflects the current scope and activities of The Canadian Network of Dance Presenters, highlighting its role as a key facilitator and advocate for dance presentation in Canada.