Interview by Marcus Kohler

To mark the launch of our new partnership with the Südtiroler Kulturinstitut, we sat down with Sharon Booth, Artistic Director of Bolzano Danza Workshops – one of Europe’s most acclaimed summer dance intensives, held each July in Italy. This conversation marks the first step in bringing our new fellowship to life and offers a window into what awaits young dancers selected to join the program in Bolzano.

Marcus: Could you start by sharing a bit about your journey in dance and how you became Artistic Director of the Bolzano Danza Workshops?

Sharon: I grew up in Waterloo, Ontario – a small town not exactly known for its cultural scene. I started out at a local dance school and later spent some time at the National Ballet School of Canada. At 18, I was accepted to the Juilliard School in New York City, which was a huge transition. I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts there, studying with world-class teachers in a very intense environment.

After graduating, I danced with various companies including Savage Jazz and Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal, which was a dream come true. But at 29, I had a serious hip injury that required surgery, so I stepped back from full-time performing. I moved to Vienna and trained to become a Pilates master, and through connections from Juilliard and the dance world, I began teaching and performing again – carefully adapting my movement to protect my body.

I eventually caught the attention of Edith Wolf Perez, the then-director of the Bolzano Danza Workshops. She saw me teach and invited me to join the faculty. I taught for one season, (the first of 14!) then took a short break to have my first child. When Edith retired, she asked me to take over as Artistic Director. That was ten years ago – my first season directing the festival, I had a six-month-old baby!

Marcus: For those unfamiliar, what exactly is Tanz Bozen / Bolzano Danza?

Sharon: Tanz Bozen is the umbrella name for two intertwined events: a performance festival and an educational workshop program, both held in South Tyrol in July. This year marks our 41st season. The performance side brings in fantastic dance companies from around the world, while the workshop side offers two weeks of intensive dance training.

We host around 25–30 teachers and musicians, with 800 participants expected this year. Classes cover all levels – from age five to 105 – and span countless styles: ballet, jazz, contemporary, Bollywood, flamenco, hip hop, Lindy Hop, and more. The goal is to bring the world of dance to Bolzano.

Marcus: There are many international dance festivals – what sets Bolzano Danza Workshops apart?

Sharon: Three things:

1. Live Music: Most classes are accompanied by live musicians – piano, percussion, guitar, electronic music – which gives a special energy that’s rare nowadays.

2. Class Size: We keep class sizes small – 20-35 dancers – so it’s very personalized. Our teachers work closely with students.

3. Cross-Pollination of Styles: Dancers are encouraged to try new things. You might see a ballet dancer in a Bollywood class, and vice versa. The faculty itself is fluid and curious, which rubs off on the participants.

Marcus: What kind of dancer thrives most at Bolzano Danza?

Sharon: Dancers who are open-minded, curious, and willing to challenge themselves. We have a strong foundation in ballet, jazz, and contemporary, but we also offer repertory classes with world-renowned choreographers like Crystal Pite, Ohad Naharin (Gaga technique), and Joe Alegado. The professional track is particularly exciting for advanced dancers wanting to expand their choreographic vocabulary.

Marcus: How should dancers prepare when applying?

Sharon: Be honest about your level. You might be advanced in ballet but a beginner in flamenco, and that’s totally okay. Check class levels when applying. We encourage dancers to take a variety of classes: one technical (like ballet), one bodywork (Pilates, yoga), and one stylistically new. On Mondays, we offer trial classes – perfect for exploring something different.

Marcus: With so many courses, can dancers personalize their schedules?

Sharon: Absolutely. We have five class blocks a day across eight studios. You can build your own schedule based on level, style, and energy. Some dancers take five classes a day; others prefer three plus a trial. We recommend starting the day with bodywork or ballet, followed by more intensive styles or fun explorations like Lindy Hop in the afternoon.

Marcus: What’s the relationship like between students and teachers?

Sharon: Our teachers are not only top professionals—they’re kind, warm, and approachable. Between classes, they often stay and chat. We also host “Meet & Greet” Sundays before each week begins, where students, teachers, and musicians mingle over drinks and performances.

Outside of class, you’ll see teachers attending performances and events alongside students. There’s no “too cool” atmosphere. Everyone’s there to learn, work hard, and support each other.

Marcus: How do you support dancers in finding their unique voice?

Sharon: We encourage dancers to personalize movement, explore improvisation, and respond to live music in real time. Teachers like Jennifer Mann and classes like Gaga or Your Move foster creativity and individuality.

Even within structured choreography, we give dancers room to interpret and develop their personal style. It’s about more than copying – it’s about owning the movement.

Marcus: This has been incredibly inspiring. Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Sharon: Just that Bolzano Danza is truly a special place—a home away from home for so many of us. Our website is www.tanzbozen.it, and you can follow us on Instagram at @workshops_tanzbozen or @bolzanodanza. My own handle is @sharonbooth611. I also run a studio in Vienna called InDancity, which shares the same welcoming spirit.

We’re expecting record registrations this year—and we can’t wait to dance, celebrate, and grow together