Reviewed by Paula Citron
Oct 24, 2011
A Woman’s Work
Dance Matters Series 1
Choreography by Olga Barrios, Terrill Maguire, Stephanie Fromentin, Kate Nankervis and Jasmyn Fyffe/Kyra Jean Green
Scotiabank Theatre, Pia Bauman School
Oct. 15 and 16, 2011
Six years ago, dancer/choreographer Tanya Crowder had a dream. She wanted to start a series that would allow independent choreographers to show their work. The concerts take place on the weekend afternoons.
The shows are grouped by theme. The first Dance Matters of the season was A Woman’s Work, showcasing pieces by women choreographers about themes that are important to women.
Whether it was dance by a seasoned veteran like Terrill Maguire, or a newcomer like Kate Nankervis, or a visitor from Montreal like Stephanie Fromentin, this series never disappoints. All the pieces had worth.
Olga Barrios’ solo Behind Windows was particularly strong, inspired by the dehumanization of violence in her native Columbia and its endless civil war. Jasmyn Fyffe and Kyra Jean Green co-choreographed Recollections close to Home, a charming work dedicated to their mothers.
The importance of the Dance Matters series cannot be underestimated. Choreographers get to perform in front of an audience which is the goal of creation.