Richard Zimich

Currently serving as the Event Manager at the Light House Arts Centre in Halifax, NS, Richard brings a lifelong passion for dance and the arts to every aspect of his work. His early training took place at esteemed institutions including Pacific Northwest Ballet School, Banff Centre for the Arts, Goh Ballet, and the National Ballet of Canada. He holds RAD certification and has extensive experience in the Vaganova method, as well as training in Tap, Contemporary, and Modern dance.

As a professional dancer, Richard performed with companies such as Ballet BC, Alberta Ballet, Ballet Ouest de Montréal, and the Vancouver Opera, along with numerous guest appearances across Canada.

Following his stage career, he shifted focus to teaching and mentoring, directing both the school and company of the Youth Ballet Company of Saskatchewan. Richard has owned and operated his own studio, taught at schools including the Maritime Conservatory for Performing Arts in Halifax, and has had the privilege of working with a wide range of dancers—from professional training programs and adaptive dance classes to adults discovering dance for the first time.

Richard’s choreographic work spans a variety of platforms, from CBC broadcasts and the Aberdeen International Youth Festival to performances with the Regina Symphony and Mile Zero Dance. He has created competition pieces for schools of all sizes. Currently, he;s developing a new production of The Nutcracker in collaboration with CTV and the IWK.

Teaching remains one of the great joys of Richard’s life. Whether working with young children, seasoned professionals, or newcomers to dance, he is continually inspired by each student’s unique journey and feels honoured to be a part of it.

CDA is excited to welcome Richard to the Adult Dance Program team!