BRASS
RING DANCE
Nonprofit Organization
PROJECT
OUR MISSION
Our mission at Brass Ring Dance ("BRD") is to create safer, inclusive and accessible dance spaces for children and youth in rural towns of Ontario.
WHAT WE DO
As an organization, Brass Ring Dance (“BRD”) understands that there are many dynamics, issues, and needs to attend to in order to build accessible, ethical and safer dance spaces. There are three main areas in which we do our best to develop and implement these kinds of spaces:
Accessibility
We bring quality dance classes in various styles to indigenous communities that may not have easy access to dance.
OUR STORY
At the age of 13, founder Allie Laliberte took her first dance class in the town of Midland Ontario at the local dance studio. Her interest first sparked when her father, Paul Laliberte, began watching the TV show So You Think You Can Dance. Quickly after her first dance class, Allie was hooked. Although it was a large financial commitment for her family, Allie joined the competitive dance team and began dancing nearly everyday of the week while also balancing school and part-time employment. Allie’s love continued to grow for the art and bonded over it immensely with her father.
Allie has gone on to perform with renowned artists such as Drake, Rihanna, Ricky Martin, Shawn Mendes and Doja Cat, gracing stages like the Grammys, American Music Awards, and The Brit Awards. She has also appeared in Pepsi commercials, toured North America, Latin America, and much more. Her remarkable journey would not have been possible without the support of her community. During her training in small-town Ontario, Allie received invaluable help from dance parents, caregivers, studio owners, and instructors. They provided rides to competitions, shared meals, and allowed her to stay at the studio for hours, all of which were crucial in her development as an artist. The community in Midland played a significant role in shaping her career, and she hopes that BRD can offer similar support and opportunities to young dancers of future generations.
Our charity is named after Paul Laliberte’s cherished boat, the Brass Ring. Paul passed away in 2012, and ten years later, we founded BRD to honor his memory.
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
Local Dancer
- Midland, ON -
"When the war in Ukraine started, I lost the opportunity to continue dancing and pursuing my goal. It was a difficult period that took away not only my home but my dreams. However, after moving to Canada, I regained the chance to engage in my favorite activity. Thanks to the financial support of BRD, I was able to find a new dance group and resume my training They not only helped me get back to dancing. Thanks to them I can pursue my goal again and not give up."
Hailey, 16
- Local Dancer -
"I am so happy for the opportunity to dance this year. Thank you to Brass Ring dance for understanding the challenges dancers face and ensuring that the financial issues don't take away their ability to perform. Their generosity and kindness make a real difference in the lives of dancers. Dance has helped me overcome mental health and physical obstacles. It's truly inspiring to see the dance community come together to support one another"
Brandy, Dance Mom
- Midland, ON -
"As a dance mother of 2 very talented dancers, dance is expensive. But even more so when you fall on financial hard times. You never want to be the parent who has to crush your child's dream. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping children keep their dreams alive."
