IBGPS 2026 Conference

BGP 2026 Meet-the-Judges Conference

Date: 26 July 2026
Time: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Venue: UCC Theatre

IBGP Singapore Head of Jury & Artistic Advisor: Janek Schergen
Conference Speaker and Convenor: Dr Peter Gn
Speakers: Baptiste Bourgougnon, Prof. Caren Carino, Melissa Quek, Miranda Weese, Sabrina Lenzi, Sarah Wildor, Zenia Tàtcheva

  1. Supporting Healthy Growth in Young Dancers

1.1. Building Confidence Through Competitions

Discuss how competitions can help students develop confidence, discipline, resilience, and motivation when approached in a healthy and constructive way.

1.2. Balancing Dance, School, and Well-being

Explore practical strategies for managing training intensity, academic commitments, rest, and emotional well-being across different age groups.

 

  1. Understanding Dance Training Pathways

2.1. Different Pathways in Dance Education

Provide an overview of recreational, competitive, pre-professional, vocational, university, and professional training pathways across different countries and institutions.

2.2. Choosing the Right Opportunities at the Right Age

Discuss how parents and teachers can make age-appropriate decisions regarding competitions, pointe work, private coaching, overseas programmes, and intensive training.

 

  1. Developing Strong Technical and Artistic Foundations

3.1. What Makes a Strong Young Dancer

Explore the importance of musicality, coordination, artistry, discipline, adaptability, and performance quality alongside technical ability.

3.2. Training for Long-Term Development Instead of Short-Term Results

 Discuss sustainable approaches to dance education that prioritise healthy progression and long-term growth over early achievement.

 

  1. Contemporary Dance and Versatility in Today’s Training

 4.1. Why Contemporary Training Matters

Discuss how contemporary dance helps students develop movement quality, creativity, expression, coordination, and versatility.

4.2. Understanding Style, Interpretation, and Performance

Explore how dancers can better understand movement intention, musical interpretation, improvisation, and stylistic differences in both ballet and contemporary works.

 

  1. Presentation and Stage Awareness in Competitions

5.1. Costume, Makeup, and Stage Presentation

Discuss how thoughtful presentation choices can support storytelling, confidence, and overall stage impact in an age-appropriate manner.

5.2. Developing Professional Habits from a Young Age

Explore rehearsal discipline, backstage etiquette, preparation skills, and performance mindset that contribute to a positive competition experience.

 

  1. The Role of Parents and Teachers in Dance Education

6.1. Creating a Positive Learning Environment

Discuss how parents and teachers can work together to support motivation, healthy expectations, communication, and emotional development.

6.2. Supporting Students Through Success and Disappointment

Explore constructive ways to guide students through results, feedback, setbacks, and personal challenges in competitions and training.

 

  1. Preparing Dancers for the Future

7.1. Opportunities Beyond Competitions

Provide insight into scholarships, summer programmes, vocational schools, university education, and career pathways available to young dancers internationally.

7.2. The Future of Dance Training in a Changing World

 Discuss how evolving industry expectations, technology, media, and interdisciplinary skills are shaping the next generation of dancers.

 

Q&A Session

An opportunity for parents, teachers, and students to engage directly with international directors, educators, and dance professionals regarding training, education pathways, competitions, and future opportunities.