In 1986, responding to developing federal and provincial arts policies, a small group of Ontario-based dance artists saw the need for a professional association that could establish standards for payment and working conditions, and that would organize individual dance artists into one united voice. A foundation for CADA was established with the support of the Dance Ontario Association, Marie-Josée Chartier, Maxine Heppner, Patricia Fraser and many other dedicated dance artists.

1986

Dance Ontario, Pat Fraser, Maxine Heppner and Marie-Josée Chartier meet to assess the needs of the independent dance artist.

1988

A steering committee of the Canadian Alliance of Dance Artists (CADA) is formed with the encouragement of Joysanne Sidimus, to participate in undertakings of the Federal Status of the Artist Committee.

1991

CADA Ontario representatives participate in provincial Status of the Artist legislation discussions.

1992

CADA Ontario provides support to dance artists in British Columbia who establish CADA/BC.

1994

Offers first professional discounts for members. Contracts first paid, part-time administrative support.

1995

CADA Ontario incorporates without share capital in the Province of Ontario, publishes Letters of Agreement templates for performance, rehearsal and teaching contracts, and offers group accident insurance coverage.

1996

Participates with CAPDO in hearings with the Canadian Artists and Professional Relations Tribunal regarding certification of professional associations to represent dance artists. Canadian Actors Equity Association (CAEA) is certified.

2002

Implements an 8 month Training Subsidy Pilot Project.

2003

Publishes Professional Standards for Dance (PSD) Version 1 after 10 years in development. 

Doubles membership to 110.

2007

Launches joint website with CADA/BC. Moves into its first office with access one day a week.

2008

Receives 3 year funding from Ontario Trillium Foundation and hires first Executive Director. Moves into full-time office space at Centre for Social Innovation. Develops Strategic Plan 2008/09-2010/11. Delivers first conference in conjunction with the AGM as the part of new Professional Development program. Enters pilot of joint membership with Canadian Dance Assembly (CDA).

2009

Publishes PSD Version 2, new print Membership Handbook and member e-News.

2017

Initiates a new approach to the PSD as a living document, publishing the first of an ongoing series of rolling updates.

2019 

CADA-ON becomes CADA/East! New name, same dedication to the working dance artist.

2021

Launches Caregiver Subsidy Pilot Project

 
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