Dancers Intensive 2026

Program Dates Feb 16, 2026 - Feb 28, 2026

Overview  

This two-week immersive residency offers individual dancers the opportunity to explore and embody the unique choreographic languages of three internationally acclaimed dance artists - Kirsten Wicklund, Marie Gyselbrecht, and Cyril Baldy.

Participants will rotate through choreographic labs with each faculty artist, taking part in daily technique and improvisation classes that support embodied exploration.

Description

The program includes collaborative creation processes, culminating in informal studio showings that offer a chance to share and reflect on the work developed.

Program highlights:

  • Deepen physical and artistic practice through technique and improvisation
  • Experience three distinct choreographic voices and creative approaches
  • Develop collaborative and adaptive skills in rehearsal and creation settings
  • Engage in mentorship, feedback, and self-reflection
  • Share work in an informal public showing at the end of the residency

Requirements

This residency is open to early career dancers interested in engaging with both Pointe and non-Pointe work, who are eager to explore diverse choreographic approaches in a focused and collaborative environment.

  • Standard scholarship: covers 100% of tuition fees, and 50% of meals and accommodation costs
Deadline
Residency Length
5 days - 6 months
Languages
English
Average Number of Artists in Residence at a Time
15
Collaborative Residency
Must apply and be accepted individually
Discipline
Choreography
Dance
Performance Art
Companions
N/A
Country of Residence
Open to artists based anywhere in the world
Family Friendly
N/A
Stage of Career
Emerging
Additional Expectations/Opportunities
Participate in public programming
Participate in open studio with fellow residents
Accessible Housing
ADA Compliant
Partially Accessible (50% or more)
Meals Provided
Some meals (at least 2 meals provided)
Studios/Special Equipment
Performance/Presentation Facilities
Theater
Dance Studio With Sprung Floor
Dance Studio Without Sprung Floor
Studios/Facilities Accessibility
Partially Accessible (50% or more)
Type of Housing
Private bedroom in a shared housing facility on campus
Additional Eligibility Information

Eligibility

Applicants must be 18+ at the time of the program start date. 

Domestic and international applications are welcome.

Visa Eligibility Information: 

  • Please note that Banff Centre programs do not meet the eligibility requirements for a Canadian Student Visa.
  • If you are accepted into our program, you must obtain a Visitor Visa to enter Canada. Accepted participants are responsible for identifying and complying with the immigration requirements to enter Canada as a visitor from their country of origin. If you require a Visitor Visa please check the current expected processing times well in advance of applying.

Inclusivity Statement

We welcome applicants of all ages (18+), backgrounds, gender identities and expressions to apply. Artists from historically underrepresented and equity deserving groups are especially welcome.

Number of Artists Accepted in Most Current Year
20
Artist Stipend
Travel Stipend/Material Stipends
Residency Fees
1234
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Fee Details

Banff Centre offers a range of scholarship and funding opportunities for each residency. If you would like to be considered, please complete the Financial Aid section when uploading your supporting materials through the application portal. 

 

Grant/Scholarship/other Funding Support
2668
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Grant/Scholarship/Other Funding Support Details

We are pleased to offer scholarships to support participants in our program. Below are details regarding the scholarship amount and how they are applied.

  • Standard scholarship: covers 100% of tuition fees, and 50% of meals and accommodation costs
  • Canadian Indigenous scholarship: covers 100% of tuition fees, meals, and accommodation costs

To receive the standard scholarship please complete the Financial Aid section when uploading your supporting materials.

Application Fee
65
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Application Type
Open application