This workshop is designed for Arizona-based high school and college-age dancers who want to grow as artists and learn what it really takes to build a future in dance.
Held at the University of Arizona School of Dance, participants will take part in intensive creative and technical training while also gaining valuable professional skills that support life beyond the studio.
Throughout the week, students will explore career development, mentorship, and real-world experiences that connect dance to leadership, collaboration, and creative entrepreneurship. The program may include special guests and engagement across campus—such as conversations with partners from the Eller College of Management—as well as opportunities to connect with the local arts community. The goal is to support dancers both onstage and off, helping them feel confident as artists, students, and future professionals.
The intensive takes place May 26–30, 2026, and brings together a diverse group of participants, including high school dancers, college students, graduate students, members of the local arts community, and prospective School of Dance recruits. Led by School of Dance faculty and guest artists, the Theatre of Movement Creative Process focuses on creativity, collaboration, and tools for sustaining a long-term career in the arts. Students will leave with new skills, inspiration, and a clearer understanding of what their next steps in dance can be.
Registration: Registration is open through May 19, 2026 and limited to 40 participants. Register before April 19, 2026, and participants will receive a $50 discount. We encourage early registration to secure your spot and take advantage of the reduced pricing. After registration, participants will receive additional event information via the email address provided as the workshop approaches.
Parking: The cost of attendance does not include parking. Parking on campus is enforced by the University of Arizona Monday through Friday. Participants are responsible for securing and paying for their own parking during the workshop. Second Street parking, Cherry Avenue Garage, or drop-off are recommended. Short-term 20-minute parking spots are available nearby for parents who wish to walk their dancer to the entrance.
Refunds: The registration fee is based on overall program attendance and is not prorated for any days missed, regardless of reason. No refunds will be issued for missed days, early departures, late arrivals, or schedule conflicts. Refunds will only be considered if the program is canceled by the School of Dance.
Please note: Unlike the Arizona Jazz Dance Showcase this event does NOT Include an audition for our program, there are also NO hotel group rates at this time. As the event grows, we hope to bring more features to this exciting experience!
TENTATIVE SCHEDULE (subject to change)
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
10:00–10:15 — Welcome CheckIn & Orientation
10:15–11:15 — Movement Practice: Somatic Grounding & Awareness
11:15–11:30 — Reflection Prompt: “What Drives My Creative Process?”
11:30–1:00 — Workshop: Foundations of Creative Process
1:00–1:10 — Break
1:10–1:50 — Group Discussion & Share Out
Wednesday, May 27, 2026
10:00–10:15 — CheckIn
10:15–11:15 — Technical Practice: Ballet/Modern Integration
11:15–11:30 — Reflection: “Technical Strength as Creative Resource”
11:30–1:00 — Workshop: Generating Movement Material
1:00–1:10 — Break
1:10–1:50 — Share Out / Peer Feedback
Thursday, May 28, 2026
10:00–10:15 — CheckIn
10:15–11:15 — Movement Practice: Improvisation for Research
11:15–11:30 — Reflection Prompt: “Discoveries in the Unknown”
11:30–1:00 — Workshop: The Business of Being an Artist
1:00–1:10 — Break
1:10–1:50 — Share Out / Group Dialogue
Friday, May 29, 2026
10:00–10:15 — CheckIn
10:15–11:15 — Movement Practice: Rehearsal Methods & Dynamics
11:15–11:30 — Reflection: “My Rehearsal Identity”
11:30–1:00 — Workshop: Career Sustainability for Performing Artists
1:00–1:10 — Break
1:10–1:50 — Discussion & Project Preparation
Saturday, May 30, 2026 — Community Share Day (Adjusted Timing)
10:00–10:15 — CheckIn
10:15–11:15 — Movement Practice: Integration & Embodiment
11:15–11:30 — Reflection: “What I’m Sharing Today”
11:30–12:30 — Workshop (Reduced to 1 hour): Preparing Work for Community Spaces
12:30–12:40 — Break
12:40–1:55 — Expanded Community Share Out (75 minutes)
1:55–2:00 — Closing Circle/Group Photo
