Our Purpose
Black Arts Development Program
The Black Arts Development (BAD) Program consists of six sections that focus on Theatre and Film for Script Writers and Actors, Dance, Visual Arts, Media and Music. The two primary aspects of the BAD Program are training and mentorship. The Program was designed with the intent of providing emerging and pre-professional Black artists the tools and practical knowledge to take the next step in their artistic journey and generate an environment where African, Caribbean and Black Diaspora culture can flourish in Calgary. Woezo Africa has partnered with arts organizations, institutions, universities and businesses in Calgary to reform old systems and move into a place of renewed support that will help contribute to a thriving presence of Black Theatre, Film, Dance, Media, Music and Visual arts in Calgary. Our ultimate goal is to acclimate and nurture the African Diaspora cache of creative artists to the performing and visual arts sector.
2025 Guest Instructors
(To be announced on May 31, 2025):
The benefits for this FREE program includes:
- Imparting the value and traditions of African dance forms to students through classes and workshops.
- Build physical and mental wellbeing from exposure to dance.
- Learn about the relationship of dancer and musician in a cultural context.
- Deepen their understanding of the art form’s movement and music.
- Successful applicants will be paid for the 3 Week Dance Intensive.
- Empowered to share experiences with others and build personal networks.
- Small class learning.
- Practical and applied skills.
- Provide exposure to dance forms that parents or grandparents were raised with, but have since ceased to find a place in the Calgary landscape.
- Enhance your professional dance career.
Admission Requirements
The 4th iteration of the Black Arts Development Program will focus on creating spaces for African, Caribbean, and Black community members by supporting 50 emerging artists to learn and grow. No prior dance experience is required; however, we only accept serious participants passionate about learning and growing as a professional artist.
Program Eligibility
- The BAD Program 3 Week Dance Intensive is for the African, Caribbean, and Black community members.
- No prior dance experience required.
- A $200.00 commitment fee will be required from successful candidates at the beginning of the workshop. This will be refunded upon successful completion of the workshop.
- An additional $50 (Youth) and $100 (Adults) will be awarded to all candidates upon successful completion of the program.
Important Dates
| Program Schedule | Dates |
| Application opens | April 2, 2025 |
| Application closed | May 31, 2025 |
| Letter of admission for successful applicants | June 5, 2025 |
| 3 Week Dance Intensive begins | July 7, 2025 |
| 3 Week Dance Intensive ends | July 26, 2025 |
