SPARK: WHISTLER

A professional development experience for dance teachers and studio leaders who want practical tools, meaningful connection, and renewed momentum.

investing in your career is not aN indulgence.

It is an investment in your teaching, your leadership, your dancers, and the long-term sustainability of the work you love.

We know it can be hard to step away from the studio, your students, your family, and the many responsibilities pulling at your time. SPARK: Professional Development for Dance Educators was created to make that time away meaningful, practical, and worthwhile.

Dance teachers and studio leaders will leave with:

  • Fresh ideas

  • Effective tools

  • Meaningful connections

  • Renewed momentum

Past presenters

2026 SPARK WHISTLER Schedule

FRIDAY

Travel to Whistler, BC

  • 2:00 - 4:00PM
    The Arrival: Movement, Connection & Intention

    4PM Hotel Check-in & Free time

  • 5:30 - 7:00PM

    The Unwind: Wine Tasting Social

    7:30PM GROUP DINNER**

SATURDAY

  • 10:00 - 10:45AM
    The Drop-In: Movement with Kelly

  • 11:00AM - 1:15PM
    The Balancing Act     with Kelly

    1:15 - 2:00PM LUNCH

  • 2:00 - 4:15PM
    The Exchange:     Skill Share with Tamara

    4:15PM The Freestyle: Time to rest, explore, refuel, recharge.

  • 6:00 - 9:00PM
    The Exhale: Scandinave Spa**

SUNDAY

9:30AM Hotel Check Out

  • 10:00AM - 10:45AM
    The Reset:     Movement with Abby

  • 11:00AM - 1:00PM
    Culture by Design     with Lina

    1:00 - 1:45PM LUNCH

  • 1:45 - 2:45PM
    Culture by Design cont’d with Lina

  • 3:00 - 4:00PM The Wrap Up

    Travel Home

**Optional, add-on experience

What’s included

  • 12+ HOURS OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

    Faculty announcements coming soon!

  • 2 NIGHTS of BOUTIQUE HOTEL ACCOMMODATION

    AAVA HOTEL, WHISTLER, BC

  • LUNCH AND SNACKS PROVIDED THROUGHOUT THE EVENT

    Stay nourished and hydrated all day.

  • TIME TO SOCIALIZE WITH PEOPLE WHO GET IT

    Create lasting connections.

  • UNWIND At THE SCANDINAVE SPA *optional ADD-ON

    SCANDINAVE SPA

  • FREE TIME TO SPEND YOUR WAY. WE'RE SERIOUS.

    When’s the last time you had time to do that?

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Here’s What People Are Saying

  • Sara, Studio Owner & Dance Educator

    “My heart is bursting with gratitude, connection and inspiration after attending The Dance Teacher Retreat. Tamara and Abbey went above and beyond, facilitating a magical few days perfectly customized for everyone in attendance. Every moment felt easeful in connecting with others and asking questions/exploring ideas in a safe and supportive environment. Guest speakers, Erika and Keri, were informative while keeping their sessions engaging and collaborative. I left the weekend with many new ideas to explore as a teacher and a studio owner, and a clear reminder of why I love what I do. I'm looking forward to future opportunities with The Dance Leadership Institute!“

  • Kara, Dance Educator & Studio Administrator

    “This was my second year at the Dance Teacher’s Retreat and it almost certainly won’t be my last. Having a weekend on my calendar that is dedicated to self improvement, connecting with other teachers, and physical relaxation is something to look forward to all year round! The atmosphere of the retreat is just perfection as we are surrounded by likeminded people who all just want to learn more, chat about life, and spend time reconnecting with others and themselves. If you haven’t signed up for a retreat yet, I highly encourage you to do so as soon as possible! Tamara and Abby know how to put on an excellent retreat!”

  • Harmony, Dance Educator

    "My experience at The Dance Teacher Retreat was definitely one for the books. So much inspiration, so much laughter, so many tears, so much to be learned. It was life changing from start to finish and I would highly recommend it to anyone!"

  • Hayley, Dance Educator & Studio Owner

    "The dance teacher retreat was an uplifting, uniting experience. Being in the room with other educators committed to bettering themselves and their students was such a treat. All the presenters were masters in their fields and I left feeling better equipped to perform my job in a meaningful way."

  • Leslie, Dance Educator & Studio Owner

    "I'd been meaning to attend the Dance Teacher Retreat for years and finally took action, and I'm so grateful that I did. The weekend was a meeting of a diverse group of dance teachers, thoughtful and practical information from knowledgeable presenters that wasn't JUST for our studios and students but for ourselves as individuals. It was a balanced weekend of learning, growing, collaboration, and rest. Can't wait for the next one!"

  • Abi, Dance Educator

    "Being both a dance teacher and a social work student, I found this retreat so valuable in bridging the gap between the work I do as a dance teacher and as a social worker. It has helped me figure out how to bring more meaning into my work as a dance teacher."

  • Sabra, Dance Educator

    "I thoroughly enjoyed my weekend with Tamara, Sarah, and Andrea. I left with tools to bring back into my classes and the confirmation that other teachers share my values. It was special to be able to connect with dance teachers outside of my specific teaching community. The Dance Leadership Institute attracts a certain type of person, which makes being vulnerable in these spaces less daunting. I know that everyone who attended this weekend is passionate about teaching dance and raising the next generation of artists in a healthy learning environment. Thank you! "

  • Maya, Dance Educator

    "This retreat has been an incredible experience! It reminded me how powerful dance can be in bringing people together and fostering both personal growth and professional development. It has deepened my knowledge not only as a teacher but also in everyday life. I’m truly grateful to the instructors and for everything I’ve learned here. Thank you all for making this experience unforgettable!"

  • Kenzie, Dance Educator

    "This dance teacher retreat was truly transformative. The retreat delved into teaching methods that went beyond technique, focusing on how to use and channel emotions to enhance the experience for our dancers. It wasn't just about helping the children; it was about empowering them with tools to help themselves, fostering independence and confidence. The entire experience was both therapeutic and deeply informative, offering insights that will help me create a more enriching and supportive environment not only for my dancers but for myself as a teacher. I left this retreat feeling inspired, equipped, and ready to bring these valuable lessons back to my studio!”

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FAQs

  • Registration for SPARK 2027 will be announced in the spring of 2027. Want to be the first to know? Join our SPARK Insider list!

  • Yes, we can offer payment plans to participants. Please email us to discuss your options.

    All registration balances must be paid in full 4-6 weeks before the event.

    All prices are subject to 5% GST.

  • Payment plan invoices must be paid by the listed due dates. If a payment is missed, TDLI may follow up with a reminder and provide a short grace period where possible.

    If a payment is not received within 5 business days of the due date, the registration may be considered incomplete and the participant’s spot may be released. Any amounts already paid will be handled according to the withdrawal policy below.

  • All withdrawal requests must be submitted in writing by email.

    Because SPARK includes limited retreat spaces, accommodation planning, and advance supplier commitments, refunds are availably only according to the schedule below:

    • Withdrawal by more than 90 days prior to the event: refund of amounts paid, less a $150 non-refundable administration fee.

    • Withdrawal in less than 90 days: 50% refund of amounts paid.

    • Withdrawal in less than 60 days onward: no refunds available.

    No refunds or credits will be issued for missed sessions, late arrival, early departure, travel delays, illness, personal schedule conflicts, or changes in personal circumstances.

  • If a participant can no longer attend, they may request to transfer their registration to another eligible participant, subject to TDLI approval and package availability. Transfer requests must be received in writing no later than 7 days prior to the event.

  • Retreat pricing may vary depending on package type and occupancy. If a participant’s rooming arrangement changes due to their own withdrawal, roommate withdrawal, or requested package change, the participant may be responsible for any resulting price difference.

    TDLI will do its best to communicate options clearly, but specific rooming arrangements and package adjustments are subject to availability.

  • TDLI reserves the right to make reasonable changes to the retreat schedule, presenters, session content, activities or venue details if needed.

    If TDLI must cancel the retreat, registered participants will receive a refund of amounts paid to TDLI for the retreat registration. TDLI is not responsible for personal travel costs, transportation, lost wages, childcare, or other expenses incurred by participants.

  • Participants are responsible for arranging their own travel, transportation, parking, personal insurance, and any expenses not specifically included in their selected package.

    We strongly recommend that participants consider travel or event insurance if they are concerned about illness, emergencies, travel disruption, or other unexpected circumstances.

Our Host Hotel
Aava Hotel - Whistler B.C

 

Aava Whistler Hotel

4005 Whistler Way,
Whistler, BC V8E 1J1

Learn more about Aava Hotel

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