1982

The Department of Cultural Affairs and Associated Manitoba Arts Festivals held public meeting that brought dance teachers, choreographers and dancers together to identify and discuss topics of common concern.

Founding Festival Committee  – Patti Cohen, Barbara Daurie, Donna Fiala, Daphne Korol, Jill Lhotka, Doreen Bissett, Rae Magnusson, Myrna Lou McGregor, Faye Thomson, Jacqueline Weber

1983-1986

The discussion led to the development of Manitoba Association of Dance, an organization to promote dance and dance development in Manitoba.

On February 24, 1983 the organization changed its name to Dance Manitoba Inc., when it became incorporated as a provincial non profit organization.

For three years, the Annual Manitoba Provincial Dance Festival was run jointly with Associated Manitoba Arts Festivals and in 1986, Dance Manitoba took sole responsibility for its operation.

1984

The first annual Membership Showcase Concert was presented.

1987

Dance Manitoba set up its current office in the historic Pantages Playhouse Theatre. The first organization held its first workshop in Thompson, Manitoba.

2012

The first Manitoba Dance Day was co-presented with Rainbow Stage.

2014

The first Distinction Awards for Excellence in Dance presented. Recipients: Rachel Browne, Donna Fiala, Daphne Korol, Vi Roberston, Arnold Spohr and Doreen Bissett.

2015

The second Distinction Awards for Excellence in Dance presented. Recipients: Barbara Ehnes, Nenad Lhotka, Ken Peter and Pamela Rebello.

2016

The third Distinction Awards for Excellence in Dance presented. Recipients: Odette Heyn, David Moroni, Faye Thomson and The Chai Folk Arts Council.

2018

The fifth Distinction Awards for Excellence in Dance presented. Recipients: Gaile Petursson-Hiley and Shelley Shearer-Nelko.