LEAD INTENSIVE:
A ONE-DAY LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE FOR
EMERGING DANCE ARTISTS & EDUCATORS
Whether you're assisting in class today or dreaming about teaching in the future, LEAD offers mentorship, real-world insight, and training to help you grow as a leader in dance.
LEAD is designed for dancers and emerging dance educators ages 13 and up who are ready to grow their leadership and teaching skills.
Whether you’re assisting in classes, exploring choreography, or curious about becoming a teacher one day, this program helps you build the skills, confidence, and mindset needed to lead with purpose in the dance space.
Take a look at what we got up to at last year’s LEAD Intensive!
what actually happens at lead
You’ll move. You’ll think. You’ll work with others. You’ll be challenged in ways that feel real - not staged.
You’ll try things that help you feel more grounded, more clear, and more in control of how you show up in the world, your classes, your job.
You’ll learn about the creative process, and gain the tools, skills, and experience to start leading spaces with confidence.
2026 SCHEDULE*
9:30AM - Drop off/ Sign in
10:00AM - Developing Artistry
11:00AM - Communication Skills
11:45AM- Designing & Leading an Effective Warm-Up
1:00PM - Lunch
1:45PM - Choreography Planning & Project
2:45PM - Presentation & Discussion
4:00PM - Stretch, Reflect & Wrap-up
5:00PM - Pick up
*schedule is subject to minor changes to provide the best experience
This Is for You If YOU’RE…
A teaching assistant
A Student teacher
A new or emerging dance teacher and/or choreographer
A young leader who wants to support their studio community
Curious about teaching dance
What You Take Home
🛠️ Practical tools to create class plans & warm-ups
💬 Communication skills for the dance studio & beyond
🩰 New approaches to choreography & artistry
😌 A low-pressure space to create, lead, and present your work
✨ A movement-based, interactive experience
🔗 New connections with people like YOU!
📜 Leadership certificate + comprehensive resource kit with tips for your future projects
What This Course Includes
A Comprehensive Course Handbook
6 hours of interactive, hands-on learning
Catered lunch, snacks, and beverages
still not sure?
Discover what kind of dance leader you could become!
It’s quick, kind of fun, and might surprise you 👀
What Parents Need to Know
LEAD is a live, in-person experience for dancers ages 13 and up focused on helping them build confidence, communication skills, and the tools they’ll need for the dance studio and beyond, all through movement exercises, creative challenges, and guided support.
Led by Tamara Thompson Levi, dance and leadership educator with 20+ years of experience working with youth
Presenter Erika Mayall, Allegro Performance Owner & Physiotherapist MPT, HBSc(Kin), CAFCI, FCAMPT
Movement Leader Abby Hunter, Dance Artist and Educator
Trauma-informed safe, supportive atmosphere
Includes a leadership certificate and take-home resource kit
💡 Curious about the kind of leadership training your teens actually need? Read our blog post…
Real Talk: FAQ for parents & dancers
Do I need teaching experience to attend?
Not at all! LEAD is designed for dancers who are curious about teaching or leadership, even if they haven’t had the opportunity yet. Whether you're already assisting classes, teaching your own, or just starting to think about teaching one day, you’ll gain valuable tools and confidence.
Is this only for dancers who want to become teachers?
No! While it’s great for future teachers, LEAD is also for dancers who want to:
Build confidence
Become better role models
Improve communication skills
Prepare for leadership roles in their studio
Explore their choreography ideas & artistry
The skills you learn apply far beyond teaching.
Will I have to speak in front of people?
There will be opportunities to share ideas and participate in discussions, but you won’t be put on the spot or forced into uncomfortable situations. Our goal is to help you build confidence at your own pace in a supportive environment.
Are meals provided?
Yes! Lunch will be provided, and a variety of snacks will be available throughout the day. If you have specific dietary needs or preferences, we’ll do our best to accommodate them and you’re welcome to bring your own food if you prefer. We also recommend bringing a refillable water bottle so you can stay hydrated throughout the day.
What should I wear?
Wear clothing you feel comfortable moving and learning in. Throughout the day you'll participate in movement classes, group discussions, and interactive activities, so come prepared for a mix of both physical and classroom-style learning.
Socks or bare feet work best on the studio floors.
What ELSE should I bring?
We’ll provide you with a LEAD handbook and writing materials, but you’re welcome to bring your own notebook or pens as well.
What if I don’t know anyone?
That’s totally normal. Most people come solo. The way the day is designed makes it easy to connect without any forced stuff.
What do I take home?
A certificate, some tools, and — if it works the way it’s supposed to — a clearer sense of how to move through the world with a little more confidence.
What People Are Saying About LEAD
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"I felt like this was such a cool way to introduce leadership in a new and more interactive way. I loved it."
Ayla
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"The LEAD program opened my eyes to all aspects of what it takes to be an impactful leader. I now carry the confidence and skills to be successful in both dance & life."
Taylor
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"I had a really great time. I learned a lot of leadership skills. I also met some really nice dancers who I've been at competitions with."
Brooklyn
