The Arts Canterbury Dance Program is cherished by many dedicated, talented dancers in Ottawa and surrounding areas, who have spent years honing their craft in a rigorous and structured environment. These students enrolled in the Classic Program not only because of their passion for dance but also because they were promised enhanced training opportunities that align with their aspirations of pursuing dance professionally or in post-secondary education. The promise of a rigorous and technical curriculum is the foundation that has encouraged these young dancers to apply, secure a place in, and commit their efforts to this nationally recognized program.

However, there are alarming plans underway to fundamentally change the very structure of this esteemed program. The proposed modifications threaten to dismantle the strong, technical framework that these students rely on to meet their developmental needs and future ambitions in dance.

In addition to the Classic Program, the Venture Program was launched as a commendable effort to promote equity and inclusion within dance education. It was designed to offer opportunities to students with little to no experience, providing them access to the enriching world of dance.

Both programs have distinct and important roles within the community—they cater to different needs and experience levels, offering unique opportunities for growth and inclusion. Altering the Classic Program risks blurring these boundaries to the detriment of students who have invested years of dedicated effort into achieving excellence in their craft.

We urge the Ottawa community, educators, and policy makers to halt these proposed changes to the Arts Canterbury dance program. Preserve the integrity and original intent of both the Classic and Venture Programs. Allow the Classic Program to continue offering a challenging, high-caliber education that meets the needs of experienced dancers. Maintain the Venture Program as an open-entry pathway that embraces inclusion and diversity in the arts.

Our students deserve to receive the training they were promised upon entering Arts Canterbury. Their dreams and hard work should not be compromised by unnecessary and detrimental changes. Stand with us in championing a dance education that honours commitment, respects diversity, and fosters the potential of every dancer.

Please sign this petition to RAISE YOUR VOICE and ensure that both programs continue to serve their original and rightful purposes.