September 16th, the annual Scotiabank Dance Centre Open House is throwing open the doors and shining a light on dance. From bellydance and Bollywood to contemporary, flamenco, and Latin, the Open House is a chance to sample a wide range of dance styles in an afternoon of open classes and workshops. Participating companies and artists include Flamenco Rosario, TomoeArts, Voirelia Dance Hub, SHIAMAK Vancouver, Performance Clinic, Vancouver Ballet Society, and more.
A special evening presentation features the world premiere of The African Dream, created by Rwandan-born Isaac Gasangwa (aka Izo Dreamchaser), the founder of Afrobeats Van. It follows the life of a young man growing up in the aftermath of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi people in Rwanda, and his determination to create a better world for the future. Featuring ten dynamic performers, the intricate choreography draws on African dance, hip hop, and martial arts, blending thrilling dance with text and storytelling. This inspiring work is a tribute to Black resilience and hope, and reasserts the power of art to overcome racism and oppression.
The Scotiabank Dance Centre Open House Schedule of Events include:
Pre-registration is not required for daytime events, which are drop-in, and suitable for all levels, including beginner.
12 noon-1pm Class: Contemporary dance: Having fun with improvisation with Voirelia Dance Hub
Expand your creativity with Voirelia’s Artistic Director Alina Sotskova. Class will start with a guided warm-up and lead into creative movement exercises, drawing on inspirations from visual art, nature, and mindfulness practices. Suitable for youth 16+ and adults, including those with physical limitations and/or disabilities, and people who use wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
12 noon-1pm Class: Latin Fusion with LFS Dance
Marilu Retana leads a high-energy introductory Latin Fusion class.
1-2pm Workshop: ‘Palmas’ with Flamenco Rosario
Learn basic Flamenco rhythms through ‘Palmas’: a fun hand-clapping workshop led by Flamenco Rosario’s Artistic Director, Rosario Ancer and accompanied by live music.
1-2.30pm Workshop: Tai Chi with Performance Clinic
Led by Registered Acupuncturist and Tai Chi instructor Alex Litvinoff, this workshop will delve into the core principles of Zhan Zhuang, mastering the art of balanced stillness. Explore the art of Silk Reeling, discovering its flowing movements that enhance energy circulation and Form practice (Lao Jia), harmonizing mind and body through precise postures.
2-3pm Workshop: Kabuki Dance Fans with TomoeArts
This hands-on workshop will introduce you to the kabuki dance fan. TomoeArts Sensei Hanayagi Toshikotono will lead you through the handling of, and movement with, this versatile and dynamic prop. Traditional Japanese fans will be provided.
2-3pm Class: Bellydance with Carla Naar
Explore the basic steps of Bellydance (Raqs Sharqui) and Middle Eastern music in a fun and supportive environment.
3-4.30pm Class: Alexander Technique with Performance Clinic
To be aligned — to be or not to be? Find out how to improve your posture almost effortlessly! Through bodily sensations, you can easily find the natural alignment of your body. All you have to do is improve your quality of presence and your ability to observe. Your body will show you the way! This session is led by Osteopathic Practitioner Phillippe Hunaut.
4-5pm Class: Bollywood with SHIAMAK Vancouver
Come enjoy some energetic and exciting Bollywood dancing with Priyanka Patel, senior instructor at BC’s premier Bollywood dance school, as she gets you grooving and moving to the latest Bollywood hits.
8pm Performance: Isaac Gasangwa’s The African Dream
The African Dream follows the life of a young man growing up in the aftermath of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi people in Rwanda, and his determination to create a better world for the future. Featuring ten dynamic performers, the intricate choreography draws on African dance, hip hop, and martial arts, blending thrilling dance with text and storytelling.
The Dance Centre’s 22nd annual Scotiabank Dance Centre Open House takes place Saturday September 16, 2023, noon to 5pm at the Scotiabank Dance Centre, 677 Davie Street (at Granville). Admission for daytime open house events is free, tickets for the 8pm performance of The African Dream, $28/$22 students/seniors, find tickets at thedancecentre.ca