“The Nutcracker may be delightful but come January, dance fans are craving for something that isn’t filled with sugar-plums and holiday cheer. Domestic and international companies are delivering a diverse lineup of productions ranging from tap dancing, circus athleticism, breakdancing, classic and contemporary ballet, and even wrestling. Let’s dive into what’s in store for dance enthusiasts in the coming months.
Classic Ballet
Before the outbreak of war in 2022, the National Ballet of Ukraine performed lavish productions monthly at the Taras Shevchenko National Opera House in Kyiv. Now, amid uncertain times, the company tours a program called Nadiya Ukraine, featuring ballets Le Corsaire and Don Quixote, along with traditional Ukrainian dance. Meanwhile, Manitoba’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet is set to captivate audiences with performances of Rudi van Dantzig’s Romeo & Juliet and Angelin Preljocaj’s Snow White.
Circus
An intriguing blend of circus and wrestling come together in SLAM! by FLIP Fabrique and Ex Machina, leading the charge for an exciting new fusion of entertainment. Australia’s Gravity and Other Myths offers a contemporary take on circus with The Mirror, featuring LED walls and pop mash-ups. The high-flying experience is sure to captivate audiences across Vancouver, Quebec City, Toronto, and Montreal.
Festivals
The One Yellow Rabbit’s High Performance Rodeo in Calgary presents Translations, an immersive production that seeks to redefine the traditional dance experience. The KUUMBA festival in Toronto will host the Rock Harder Breaking Competition, showcasing the skill and athleticism of international breakdancers as they prepare for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Contemporary Ballet
Montreal’s Les Grands Ballets brings Cantata, an energetic piece by Italian choreographer Mauro Bigonzetti, to captivate audiences with the spirit of the Mediterranean. In addition, Canada’s Ballet Jorgen offers a delightful interpretation of Anne of Green Gables – The Ballet, blending the spirit of the beloved novel with the elegance of ballet.
Tap
Michelle Dorrance’s Dorrance Dance from New York arrives in Vancouver with SOUNDspace, promising a vibrant celebration of this truly American art form.
Pop Star Inspiration
Choreographer Aisha Sasha John brings her dream-inspired duet, Diana Ross Dream, to Vancouver, while Mark Morris Dance Group pays homage to Burt Bacharach’s legendary music with The Look of Love: An Evening of Dance. Lastly, Kate Prince’s Message In A Bottle, set to the iconic tunes of Sting, promises to deliver a compelling narrative through dance in Montreal and Toronto.
The diverse array of dance productions set to grace stages across Canada highlights the remarkable creativity and innovation that the dance world has to offer. From classic ballet to contemporary interpretations and exciting fusions of genres, there is something for everyone. As we enter another year filled with dance, it’s clear that the world of dance is full of surprises and endless possibilities. This season, prepare to embark on an exhilarating journey that will captivate, inspire, and challenge your perspective on the power of movement and expression.”
Reference
