From Student to Faculty

Bridget Lappin. Photo © Danilo Moroni

Without a shadow of a doubt, my career as a professional dancer would not be what is it today without my experiences a participant in Dance Summer Dance and the inaugural Teen Choreography Lab [now called the teen academies]. I distinctly remember the moment, shortly before the end of my first DSD summer, when I decided, with complete conviction, that I would dance professionally.  Taking part in the camp had left me inspired and hungry for more opportunities to develop within this art form, a feeling that re-ignited itself each time I returned to Ross Creek, whether for DSD or for the Lab. Dancing all day in an environment where I had the space to completely focus on developing technically and artistically took my dancing to the next level. I learned how approach dancing and choreography from a place of investigation and curiosity. I learned how to take care of my body, both inside and outside of the studio. I was also exposed to choreographers, dance works and ways of moving and expressing that I had never seen or done before. My concept of what dance could be, and most importantly what my dancing could be, was stretched beyond what I had thought was possible.   

Nowadays, I am based in London, UK, where I work as a freelance contemporary dancer. I’ve worked with independent choreographers and companies as well as making and performing my own solo work. I have also had the privilege of returning to DSD as part of the contemporary dance faculty. It means the world to me to come back and share my knowledge and experience with the campers. Given my own experience, I know how much of an impact of my actions and spirit as a teacher is within this environment and it is my honour to provide these students with the opportunity to approach their dancing in new and hopefully, inspiring ways.

-Bridget Lappin, DSD and Choreography Academy Alumna, 2018 Faculty
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 From Cape Breton to Janet Jackson ​ 

I attended Ross Creek in the summer of 2010 and it was a life changing experience for me. I decided only weeks before attending camp that dance was something I wanted to try to pursue, and the encouragement I received at camp from the staff, teachers and campers instilled me with hope and confidence in my fresh decision. I sometimes wonder if I would have stuck to my plan without that immediate affirming experience.

Since graduating and leaving Nova Scotia I've begun and enjoyed a great career so far in the arts. I've been lucky enough to work with artists like Janet Jackson and Shawn Mendes. 

So THANK YOU for creating this place and all that it is. It has left an unforgettable impact on my life. It is always the first camp I recommend to any young artist.

​- Thomas Colford, DSD Alumnus.​

From ottawa with love

From our initial enquiry and onwards, the staff of the Ross Creek Summer Arts Camp, were welcoming and warm, and showed a genuine interest in making Kasha's Dance Summer Dance camp experience an exciting and memorable one. Throughout her two weeks of camp, Kasha's dance experience was enriched and honed through the exploration of rhythms and choreographies under the coaching of talented seasoned teachers like Ballet Bob.  This rich experience has strengthened and aligned beautifully with Kasha's professional dance training program back here at home, and has amplified the depth of her grace and dance knowledge  The camp's ethos was supportive, fun and inclusive, and celebrated each and everyone's unique gifts.  Kasha felt that her voice and vision were valued as a student camper.  Finally, the counsellors were available at all time, and were delightful catalysts for friendships for campers like Kasha . Through their fun activities and community spirit Kasha was able to make friends that she will hold near and dear to her heart.  We are grateful for having had access to this program, and for the positive impact it has had on Kasha's life.  Thank you Ross Creek!

Jordan's Journey

This is Jordan's (age 16) second DSD camp. She previously attended in 2013. Jordan has been trained in classical ballet/jazz/modern and hip-hop since age 5. She has also attended Quinte Ballet School of Canada Summer Intensive (offered spot in full-time program) and Canada's Ballet Jorgen SI IV .
Jordan really loves going to DSD!! There is not any aspect of camp life that she would change. The instructors such as Robert McCollum are top notch. Jordan chose to attend DSD primarily to work with "Ballet Bob" again. Every year she comes back from camp armed with new knowledge and has worked very hard on perfecting technique and mastering new choreography.
Jordan especially enjoyed the African drumming she learned this past summer. 

Camp life is so much fun !! The camp staff do an amazing job. They are well trained and always available day or night The campers enjoy dancing all day and at night they enjoy campfires,and fun activities like spa nights/gala dinners to keep them entertained. The weekend beach/Frency's trip is also something the dancers look forward to every year.
One thing Jordan has enjoyed both times she attended DSD, is the food !! As much of the produce as possible is grown at or near Ross Creek Centre for the Arts. The chef really tries to incorporate a very healthy , well balanced menu which caters to the dancers and gives them the energy required to complete the day's activities.

This year Jordan hopes to attend Dance Summer Dance again after returning from her 5 week program in Toronto with Ballet Jorgen. Thank you so much for putting  on such a fantastic program. I can't wait to send Jordan to Ross Creek again next summer!!!