Weekend Wrap – Sampradaya Dance Creations and Toronto International Flamenco Festival 2009

reviewed by Paula Citron
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SAMVAD with concept by Lata Pada, mentored by Pada, Michael Greyeyes and Charmaine Headley and performed by Meena Murugesan, Nadine Jackson and Shelly Ann McLeod
Sampradaya Dance Creations
Enwave Theatre
Triana, la otra orilla with Rafael Campallo and Maria Moreno
Toronto International Flamenco Festival
Queen Elizabeth Theatre
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This weekend was rich in dance.

Bharatanatyam choreographer Lata Pada believes that interculturalism rather than multiculturalism is the new reality. The touching SAMVAD featured South Asian dancer Meena Murugesan, Aboriginal dancer Nadine Jackson and Afro-Canadian dancer Shelly Ann McLeod who were mentored by Pada, Michael Greyeyes and Charmaine Headley. The word means dialogue, and the dancers came up with their own movement and text based on their life stories shaped by the mentors. These three young women danced from the heart in this shared history.

Lionel Félix, producer of Toronto International Flamenco Festival always brings in what’s new and hot from Spain, and Rafael Campallo and his partner Maria Moreno were both innovative and sizzling. Unlike the tired flamenco shows that are on the circuit, this duo and their musicians were in your face with attitude and excitement. Campallo has flying feet and unpredictable moves, while Moreno takes the traditional shawl and snail dress and turns them on their ear.