aDvANCE Conference 2025
From 16 to 19 October 2025, the second international aDvANCE conference took place at Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK). Fifty educators, artists and leaders from 34 international dance training institutions discussed contemporary teaching concepts, inclusion and future perspectives in dance education under the motto “Share. Discuss. Connect." The results form the foundation for the ongoing development of an environment that is healthy, inclusive and inspiring.
Discussions explored questions of access, inclusion and belonging — highlighting institutional differences in admission procedures, repertoire, teaching culture and student participation. Participants also addressed broader questions: What gives dance its social relevance, and how can institutions deepen and communicate this impact?
The conference emphasised a shift towards holistic, research-driven educational models. Leadership should be understood as collaborative and flexible. Health and well-being must be integral elements of training structures. A move from competitive to cooperative culture was identified as crucial — as was engaging productively with uncertainty as a condition for learning.
International collaboration remains a central priority. Joint research, exchange and shared platforms are intended to foster coordinated global cooperation. First steps include a website of the International Alliance of Professional Dance Schools (IAPDS) and regular aDvANCE conferences — including future editions in Zurich. Danse Suisse was invited in its capacity as a professional association and Organisation of the Working World, represented by President Kathleen McNurney.