TDI EXEPRIENCE
THE EVENT.
WHEN: August 18-20, 2026 | 8am - 4pm daily
WHERE: iHotel, Red Deer, AB
WHO: Dancers aged 8+!
ABOUT.
Led by industry experts, this 3-day dance camp delves deep into every facet of the entertainment industry, offering dancers invaluable insights and practical knowledge to elevate their craft.
From dynamic dance classes to insider tips and tricks, audition techniques, nutritional guidance, psychological seminars, and essential rest and recovery strategies, our comprehensive workshops cover it all and beyond.
Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and empowered while experiencing the TDI Experience event.
VENUE.
The TDI Experience 2026 will take place in the Cascade Ballrooms at the iHotel & Conference Centre in Red Deer, Alberta (6500 67 St, Red Deer, AB), August 18-20, 2026!
Staying On-Site?
We’ve secured a room block exclusively for TDI families.
Book before August 1, 2026 to receive the group rate of $104, per night.
To reserve your room:
Call the hotel directly at 403-342-6567
Please reference the following:
Block Name: Dance Initiative
Block Code: 2608DANCEI
We recommend booking early, as rooms within the block are limited. All rooms come with free wifi, parking, breakfast, and access to the pool, hottub, and fitness facilty!
schedule.
The 2026 schedule will be available at a later date. Check out last year’s schedule to get an idea about the event!
SCHOLARSHIPS.
The Dance Initiative’s TDI Experience is thrilled to offer scholarships to select dancers throughout the event. Scholarship recipients are chosen by TDI faculty over the course of the weekend and are recognized for their work ethic, commitment, and standout presence in class.
Scholarships may range from cash awards, apprenticeships, future training opportunities, and other industry-related experiences.
2025 Scholarship Recipients
Congratulations to Ella, Theia, and Lacey, who each received a 2025 TDI Experience scholarship in the form of a complimentary costume generously donated by Icon Dancewear. These dancers stood out over the course of the weekend for their dedication, growth, and unique sparkle in class.
We are proud to celebrate our 2025 scholarship recipients and look forward to recognizing new dancers at the 2026 TDI Experience.
The Dance Initiative’s TDI Experience is more than just a dance camp. Each event features specialty workshops designed to give dancers unique, industry-focused experiences beyond the studio.
Past specialty workshops have included a Dance on Film Concept Video Workshop, a Professional Editorial Photoshoot, and TDI Take One.
At the 2025 TDI Experience, dancers participated in TDI Take One, a film-based workshop that allowed each dancer to experience performing solo on camera. Participants learned and performed a one-minute combination that was professionally filmed, giving each dancer a finished video to take away — perfect for demo reels, personal highlights, or creative portfolios.
TDI TAKE ONE.
pOLICIES & FAQ.
We know, we know — the boring stuff.
Feel free to reach out to info@thedanceinitiative.ca if you have any questions!
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All registrations are non-refundable, unless the event is cancelled by the organizers.
If we need to cancel (ex: due to low registration numbers), a refund will be issued via e-transfer to the email that submitted payment, minus a $5 admin fee.
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We are excited to offer day passes, if you are not available all three days!
Although we encourage full event participation, we know the summer is busy. Email info@thedanceinitiative.ca for more information.
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The schedule and age splits are subject to change based on registration numbers.
Dancers may be assessed by TDI faculty on Day 1. If we feel a dancer should move levels, we’ll make that call.
Want to start that conversation ahead of time? Reach out and let’s chat! Email info@thedanceinitaitve.ca
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Faculty is subject to change.
If registration numbers are lower than anticipated, we may adjust the team — but the event quality will remain high.
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Doors open no earlier than 8:00 a.m. Please don’t arrive before then — we’ll be prepping the space! Dancers must be picked up at the end of each day at 4:00 p.m.
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We’re excited to offer Observer Passes this year for parents, studio owners, teachers, and supporters who would like to experience the full TDI weekend.
Observer Rate:
$30 + 5% GST
Total: $31.50Observer passes include full accreditation for all three days of the event, with access to observe all classes and workshops.
Please note:
Observer passes are not required if you are only attending the Parent Showcase on Day 3.
Observer passes do not permit class participation.
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We love seeing your photos and videos — but if you're sharing any footage from the event please be sure to credit the choreographer and tag us at @thedanceinitiative_!
A lot of heart and hard work goes into every piece, and we want to make sure the artists behind the movement are celebrated too 💛
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Dancers must wear athletic or dancewear appropriate to the style:
Ballet shoes for ballet
Jazz shoes for jazz
Socks/bare feet/turners for contemporary
Indoor runners for commercial style classes
No tap shoes required — clean indoor runners are great!
Please know that the hotel floor is carpeted.
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Dancers are welcome to bring their own lunch and snacks to fuel them for a full day of training. Please note: no nuts, please.
Lunch Add-On Available – $50 (incl. GST)
We’re excited to offer an optional lunch program this year! The lunch add-on includes:Pizza (cheese, pepperoni, Hawaiian)
Chicken strips & fries
Subway
Individual bagged veggies each day
If purchasing the lunch add-on, please indicate any dietary restrictions during registration.
We recommend bringing additional snacks as needed to stay energized throughout the day.
Don’t forget a reusable water bottle!
A refillable water station will be available on-site. -
Event merch is available for pre-order with your registration!
Everything is non-refundable
Very limited extras will be ordered — if you don’t pre-order, it will be more challenging to grab your preferred style/size at the event
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