EST. 2019
Origin Story of UNITED
“By Students. For Students…and more”
In the heart of Edmonton's vibrant dance community, a vision was born within a group of passionate local dancers. These individuals, hailing from dance clubs at the University of Alberta, Grant MacEwan University, and NAIT, recognized a significant void in the dance landscape. Post-secondary students lacked a platform to showcase their artistry and connect with like-minded dancers. Out of this realization, UNITED Dance YEG emerged as a beacon of opportunity and community.
In 2019, UNITED made its captivating debut, presenting an extraordinary showcase that brought together the exceptional talents of established post-secondary dance clubs, high school performers, and local dance groups. This awe-inspiring event not only highlighted the incredible potential within the Edmonton dance community but also served as a testament to the transformative power of dance.
The following years brought unforeseen challenges, as the world grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic. UNITED, like many other organizations, faced a two-year hiatus. However, the unwavering passion for dance propelled a dedicated team of current students and graduates to persist in their pursuit of UNITED's revival. Fuelled by resilience, they returned to UNITED Dance YEG with a renewed mission – to bridge dance communities within and beyond the campuses.
UNITED understands the profound impact of connections and aspires to create a space where dancers from all backgrounds can come together, learn, perform, and grow. In 2022, UNITED hosted an unforgettable community workshop and showcase that captured the hearts of audiences, nearly filling the theatre. The hunger to perform, learn, and evolve within the dance world became palpable.
As 2023 unfolds, UNITED Dance YEG stands ready to build upon the momentum gained and continue to fuel the passion that drives the dance community. With a resolute dedication to fostering collaboration and creating lifelong bonds, UNITED is poised to elevate the artistry and passion that dance brings to Edmonton. This is the inspiring origin story of UNITED Dance YEG – a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and the profound impact dance can have on individuals and communities alike.
Our Mission
The mission of UNITED Dance YEG is to empower, inspire, and unite the Edmonton dance community. We provide a platform for post-secondary students and dancers of all backgrounds to showcase their artistry, collaborate with fellow dancers, and explore their creative potential. Through workshops, performances, and community engagement, we aim to foster a supportive environment that nurtures talent, promotes growth, and celebrates the transformative power of dance.
Our Vision
Our vision is to bridge dance communities within and outside of post-secondary campuses, creating a thriving and inclusive dance ecosystem in Edmonton. We aspire to be the catalyst that ignites passion, drives artistic exploration, and nurtures lifelong connections among dancers. UNITED Dance YEG envisions a future where dancers of all levels and styles come together, learn from one another, and collectively contribute to the growth and development of the Edmonton dance scene. We strive to be a beacon of inspiration, fostering creativity, diversity, and excellence within the dance community.
Our Values
These values guide our actions and decisions, shaping the culture of UNITED Dance YEG and fostering an environment where dancers can thrive, learn, and create lifelong connections.
Inclusivity
We embrace and celebrate the diversity of dance styles, backgrounds, and abilities, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and valued within our community.
Collaboration
We believe in the power of collaboration, fostering an environment where dancers can come together, learn from each other, and create meaningful connections that transcend boundaries.
Artistic Excellence
We strive for excellence in all aspects of dance, encouraging dancers to push their boundaries, explore new artistic horizons, and continuously elevate their skills and artistry.
Community Engagement
We actively engage with the local community, creating opportunities for outreach, education, and cultural exchange through dance. We seek to enrich the lives of not only dancers but also the wider community.
Growth & Empowerment
We are committed to providing resources, support, and opportunities for personal and professional growth, empowering dancers to reach their full potential and achieve their dreams.
Resilience
We embrace resilience in the face of challenges, adapting and finding innovative solutions to overcome obstacles while staying true to our mission and vision.
Thank You
We extend our deepest gratitude to our incredible supporters, dancers, and community for standing by UNITED Dance YEG and believing in our vision. Your unwavering support has been the cornerstone of our journey, fueling our determination to create a vibrant and inclusive dance community in Edmonton. It is through your dedication and enthusiasm that we have been able to showcase the immense talent and artistry within our post-secondary campuses and beyond. Your presence at our events, workshops, and showcases has not only uplifted our spirits but has also inspired us to push the boundaries of creativity and excellence. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being here every step of the way.
To our extraordinary dancers, we are in awe of your talent, passion, and commitment. You are the driving force behind UNITED Dance YEG, and it is your unwavering dedication that has brought our vision to life. Your performances have left us breathless, your creativity has pushed boundaries, and your resilience has served as a beacon of inspiration. We are honoured to have you as part of our community, and we applaud your continuous growth and artistic exploration. Thank you for sharing your incredible talents with us and for being the heart and soul of UNITED Dance YEG.
Lastly, we would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to the Edmonton dance community and our wider network of supporters. Your belief in our mission, your attendance at our events, and your contributions have been invaluable. Your willingness to embrace inclusivity, collaboration, and artistic excellence has created an environment where dancers from all backgrounds can come together, learn from one another, and create lifelong connections. Your engagement with UNITED Dance YEG has extended beyond the dance floor, enriching the lives of not only dancers but also the wider community. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey and for helping us build a thriving dance ecosystem in Edmonton. Together, we will continue to empower, inspire, and unite the dance community for years to come.
UNITED Dance YEG Team