The East Side Dance Festival Society Presents: 

ATA Conference Funding is still available. Click on your local below!

In 2022, the East Side Dance Festival Society proudly introduced the Dance Teacher Training Conference as part of its annual programming.  Our mission is to cultivate meaningful relationships among dance educators, community partners, students, and pedagogical approaches, strengthening Alberta’s inclusive and vibrant arts community through shared experiences and collaborative learning.

This year’s conference theme is inspired by two powerful documentary films that explore the historic court case of Charles Daniels, a civil rights activist who was denied his theatre seat in 1914 simply for being Black. The case was brought against James A. Lougheed and W.B. Sherman, owner and manager of Calgary’s Sherman Grand Theatre.

We are honoured to welcome Cheryl Foggo—local historian, author, and filmmaker—who will present her documentary Kicking Up a Fuss: The Charles Daniels Story. Featuring original transcripts, archival images, and other primary sources, this film reminds us that Alberta’s history is shaped by often-overlooked, yet deeply inspiring heroes.

In the follow-up film, We Call Him Sir Charles, produced by the Grand Theatre, Calgary’s Poet Laureate Wakefield Brewster, and professional tap dancer Lisa La Touche offer personal reflections on Daniels’ legacy through spoken word and dance.  Directed by Cheryl Foggo and with cinematography by Joel Varjassy, this moving tribute celebrates Charles Daniels' courage and enduring impact.

Following the screenings, a panel discussion with all three artists will delve into their creative processes and explore how Alberta’s history continues to shape our collective identity.

We hope this year’s offerings—including the documentary screenings, keynote address, networking opportunities, and a diverse lineup of instructors and speakers—will energize your teaching practice, enrich your professional toolkit, and provide tangible, socially conscious resources to elevate your dance pedagogy.

In response to feedback from last year’s attendees requesting more time for connection, we’ve added several exciting features:

• A “Sip and Social” at St. James Corner Restaurant and Irish Pub on Thursday January 22nd from 5-7pm. 

• A ticket to DJD’s Company performance of "Rare Beauties" on Thursday evening as part of the two-day conference package deal for the first 20 registrants, 

• A networking breakfast on Friday morning

• Group rate on nearby accommodation

Jump to our "Plan your trip" page for more information. 

We can’t wait to meet you, learn with you, and share our passion for dance. Let’s come together and celebrate the power of movement, history, and community.

Questions? Feel free to reach out to our Co-Chairs, Kelly Brownlee and Kelsey McMahon-Stoker, at info@eastsidedancefestival.ca

Are you ready to explore our sessions?
Browse our course offerings now!