Winnipeg dance convention attracts top talent

A young Winnipeg entrepreneur is hosting a new convention in town for dancers this weekend, complete with master classes and educational workshops

A local dance convention for young artists, complete with educational workshops, was always a dream for Brynne Abgrall.

“It’s been a long time coming, it’s been something I’ve wanted to do forever and I’m just so excited,” Abgrall said.

The 21-year-old Winnipegger has been dancing competitively since she was four. It’s been a life-long passion that she wants to share with others.

Thanks to the encouragement from a university professor, FORM Dance Convention was born. It’s a two-day event for dancers eight to 19 years old complete with master classes and workshops in performance psychology, nutrition and conditioning.

“These don’t happen in Winnipeg very often so this is unique and it’s very unique to have a faculty of this calibre come and teach for the weekend and then including the health and wellness too, it’s really going to enhance their dance experience,” Abgrall said.

Abgrall says five pro dancers from Los Angeles and Utah are teaching a variety of classes throughout the weekend. One of them is Jordan Clark, who says she is excited to be part of the convention.

“I love giving back to kids and seeing them progress. There’s no better feeling than that,” Clark said.

For 12-year-old Juliette Joachim, who dreams of being a professional dancer one day, this weekend is a great chance to learn new skills.