The Bridge Program
A fast-paced, nine-month intensive designed to elevate and validate your prior studies, providing direct, professional-level experience for accomplished dancers.
Elevating Prior Academic Excellence
Designed for accomplished dancers with a minimum age of 20, the Bridge Program is a fast-paced, nine-month training intensive. This program is tailored specifically for dancers who have already completed at least two years of post-secondary dance training or hold a university degree in dance.
For the past three years, we successfully tested this program by hosting dance graduates from renowned institutions, including:
Based on its proven success as a specialized pathway, the Bridge Program is now an official part of our core training offerings.
Important Admission Requirement
To be accepted into the Bridge Program, applicants are required to provide official proof of completion of a minimum of two years of post-secondary dance training or a dance university degree. The program accepts dancers up to 29 years of age.
What to Expect
The program operates Monday through Friday for 6.5 hours each day, offering a focused, highly concentrated trajectory.
Repertoire & Creation
Heavy dedication to mastering existing company repertoire and creating new works. Includes opportunities for mentored self-exploration in creative processes and available residencies.
Technique Classes
Two hours of daily rigorous technical training encompassing classical ballet practice through an anatomical lens, contemporary movement systems, and contact improvisation.
Specialized Conditioning
Dedicated classes focused on injury prevention, Mat Pilates, Yoga, and functional conditioning to support high-level athletic performance and long-term well-being.
Professional Exposure
Work directly with a rich vocabulary of guest professionals from Vancouver and abroad. When available, dancers have the unique opportunity to work alongside our professional dance company.
Tuition & Payment Structure
Tuition for the 9-month Bridge Program follows the same policies as our Post-Secondary Training Program (Total Program Cost: $7,000 | Non-refundable Registration Fee: $250). Flexible monthly payment options are available upon request.
Bridge Program FAQ
What is the difference between the Bridge Program and the 3-Year Post-Secondary Program?
The key differences are eligibility and duration. The three-year Post-Secondary Training Program is a comprehensive, foundational program for a wide range of post-secondary students. The Bridge Program is a one-year, fast-paced intensive designed specifically for dancers who have already completed a minimum of two years of post-secondary dance training or hold a dance university degree.
What is the main focus of the Bridge Program?
The Bridge Program focuses heavily on elevating a dancer's prior training. It is dedicated to learning company repertoire, creating new works, and maintaining a rigorous schedule of daily technique classes. Dancers are pushed to their limits and may have the opportunity to work directly with our professional dance company.
What is the difference in program structure and content?
The Bridge Program is an advanced, concentrated one-year trajectory. While both programs cover similar technical activities (ballet, contemporary, improvisation, injury prevention, and conditioning), the Bridge Program is structured for dancers ready for an immediate, advanced transition into the field.
What is the duration and daily schedule?
The Bridge Program runs from September to June, Monday through Friday, for 6.5 hours each day.
How much does the program cost?
Tuition for the program is $7,000, plus a $250 administration fee. Payment schedules and policies match our standard post-secondary program.
Do I receive a certificate upon completion?
Yes. Dancers who complete the one-year Bridge Program receive an official Certificate of Completion. Many graduates choose to return for a second year or more to further expand their repertoire and performance experience.
Is there an age limit for the Bridge Program?
Yes. Given the prerequisite of completing two years of post-secondary dance training or a university degree, we accept dancers from age 20 up to the age of 29.
How do I apply for the Bridge Program?
Dancers interested in the Bridge Program must audition for a position. Please check our audition page for all available audition dates and online submission details.
Participants reflections (Current and Alumni).
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Ursula Blanchard
What sets the Bridge program apart from the other programs is the time commitment, the care for us as individuals and the instruction on how to share/communicate with the audience and our peers. At the same time that we are asked what we can give to the program to elevate it, this program asks us what we need from it. We aren’t here to just follow instructions and crank out dances. We are required to bring our most authentic selves to the studio. This way we can offer the most precious thing to watch on stage, vulnerability. It takes practice to share your heart with the audience and there are not a lot of places that take the time to teach you how to do it. While my post secondary degree helped me discover who I am as an artist, Lamondance Bridge program is where I learned how to put that artistry into action.
Graduate from Simon Fraser University (Vancouver)
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Logan Whyte
My university dance program exposed me to the many layers and pathways professional dance can take you. When I graduated, I was craving more in-depth training for the pathway I fell in love with - contemporary dance. Lamondance’s Bridge Program has made my transition from a post-secondary dance graduate to a professional contemporary dancer smooth. This program is tailored for professional development - providing a unique experience that fosters an environment of professional and artistic growth. The program has utilized the academic skills from university and placed them in a real world context. It replicates the life of a professional company dancer, with daily classes and rehearsals for our many performance opportunities. I got to work in creation processes with leading industry professionals, allowing me to make connections and kickstart my networking. I got to work directly with Lamondance’s Professional Dance Company on various projects which has built up my professional experience. With the help of the Bridge Program, I have been able to confidently emerge into the professional contemporary dance scene, with the skills and experience to make it an easy transition. I highly recommend this program for graduates who want to specialize in contemporary dance at the professional level and who are ready to take the next step in their professional development.
Graduate from Toronto Metropolitan University (Toronto)
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Jessica Marchand
My name is Jessica Marchand and I am a performing artist for Lamondance professional dance company season 17. This will be my second season with Lamondance after completing their Graduate Career Transition “bridge” program last season. After spending three years in New York City, I made the hard decision to move back to Vancouver. I had graduated from Peridance Centre’s Certificate program in 2023, majoring in Ballet and Contemporary. During my last year living in Nyc I had the opportunity to work with many project based companies such as Project TAG, as well as collaborating with French sculptures Bruno Catalano for his exhibition along Madison Avenue. I have presented my own work in over a dozen festivals across NYC, with my first evening length show, presented by Arts On Site, taking place August 2024. When I decided to move back to my home, Vancouver, I had no plan nor a community to return to. Lamondance welcomed me with open arms, I am very thankful and humbled by the support I have received here. My time in the bridge program allowed me the opportunity to re-strengthen my technique through consistent training, something that is not usually accessible post-graduation. I can attest that every teacher has their best interest in supporting every dancers specific journey. I have met some of my closest friends at Lamondance and am very grateful to have a place to show up everyday that harnesses so much love and care. Graduate from Peridance (New York)