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Hari Krishnan is a Toronto-based dancer, choreographer, and scholar of Bharatanatyam, contemporary, and queer representations in dance. He is the artistic director of a Toronto-based company called inDANCE and the Professor of Dance at Wesleyan University in Connecticut. He was born in Singapore and moved to Canada in 1991. He has been trained in classical Bharatanatyam and other Western dance styles such as Contemporary and Hip-Hop. He aims to integrate the “East,” and “West,” with a hybrid dance form inclusive of global contemporary dance forms and classical Bharatanatyam that is innovative, unconventional, progressive, and culturally diverse. What made me decide to write about him is that his artistic works aim to tackle issues concerning racism, sexual identity, cultural appropriation, diaspora, socio-political issues and homophobia. I think what he does is really cool and makes a difference in the world because he through his art form speaks to larger issues in the world. Art can be so beautiful and powerful in that way. As a hybrid dancer myself of Bollywood and contemporary/ hip hop I aim to integrate both my worlds as well.

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David Earle is a very influential Canadian dance choreographer, and dancer. He is known for his contributions to modern dance forms and for creating and mentoring a generation of dancers locally in Toronto and now in Guelph. Over his tenure, he has created over 100 pieces and has received a number of accolades for his efforts. With a career spanning several decades, Earle has left an indelible mark on the Canadian dance scene, earning recognition for his innovative and emotional choreography, powerful performances, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of the art form.

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Allen Kaeja is a Canadian dancer, choreographer, and film director, to name a few. Kaeja, as a second-generation holocaust survivor has been using his fame in dance as a social and political platform for many years. Within his works, he uses his father's traumas about the holocaust to choreograph and shine a light on the past. Along with this, Kaeja also uses his platforms to show gender diversity with his creation of Elevation by Allen Kaeja.

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I first found out about Laurieann Gibson when I watched Honey for the first. Not only did she appear in the movie but she was the choreographer as well as being based on her life. Her perseverance is inspiring to me as I have always wanted to pursue professional dance and she makes it seem more attainable. Being a Canadian artist that has the resume she has is extraordinary as she has many accolades and high regards for her work. Due to her drive she has been able to work with many notable artists, actors, directors and producers that allow her to showcase her creative vision with the rest of the world

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Stacey Tookey is a Canadian dancer and choreographer and is a dance artist that has inspired me as a dancer very much as I was growing up. The dance world can be harsh and every time I took class with her I felt that she understood that and that her main goal was to create an inclusive and safe dance environment where all dancers felt accepted. I loved taking class from her because her movement was focused on how it made the dancer feel instead of how it looked in the mirror, which was different from how I had been taught before. Stacey has worked with many celebrities such as Celine Dion, Bette Midler, Justin Timberlake, and Michael Bublé. Stacey is a dancer and choreographer who started dancing at the age of 2 and a half and own’s The Protégé movement. Stacey has positively impacted so many dancers with Protégé, myself included. I personally have gone to The Protégé Movement and left feeling so inspired. Stacey is an advocate for inclusivity and body positivity which is what allows her to create such a safe dance environment. Overall, Stacey Tookey is an inspiration to many Canadian dancers and has been a big part in making the dance world a better place.

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 karen kain - Transformative Legacy in Art and Advocacy

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 karen kain - Transformative Legacy in Art and Advocacy

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I chose to explore the remarkable career of Karen Kain, a Canadian ballerina whose influence extends far beyond the stage. Her journey from Hamilton, Ontario, marked by exceptional talent and resilience, intrigued me. As a founding dancer with the National Ballet of Canada, Kain's commitment to innovation and inclusivity is evident in her roles as both a dancer and the Artistic Director. Her advocacy for diversity, addressing gender, race, and ethnicity issues within the dance community, aligns with crucial discussions in today's arts landscape. Kain's career provides a compelling narrative of artistic evolution, social advocacy, and a lasting legacy, making her a fascinating subject for reflection.

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The National Ballet of Canada- Mani Ghahramani- T1- TA: Amy Hull

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The National Ballet of Canada- Mani Ghahramani- T1- TA: Amy Hull

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I have always liked how expressive ballet is, so I decided to research about a ballet production company. Thus it is only natural to read about The National Ballet of Canada which happens to be in Toronto, Ontario. The organization is very impactful in the community and so many visionary scholars and performers are a part of this organization. There are schools run by this organization along with many other events and programs. Since they had such reach within the dance community, I found it curious how they might incorporate equity within their practices and leadership. Thus, I decided to do my research on this big organization. Although ballet might not sound like the most inclusive form of dance or even art, I wondered how they might have a solution for said limitations. After all, the dance community is always evolving, and I wonder how The National Ballet of Canada may commit to solving issues about equity and inclusion without disturbing the romantic image of ballet.

-M.G

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Canadian ice dancers Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir are well-known for their precision and grace on the ice. Their 20-year partnership, which began in London, Ontario, has revolutionized ice dancing by fusing creative abilities with emotive storytelling. They have left a lasting legacy in figure skating because of their constructed performances. Beyond all of their awards, the combination of athleticism and artistic expression makes them stand out and has a significant influence on figure skating. Given their status as Canadian favorites, I decided to concentrate on Virtue and Moir. The appeal of exploring beyond the traditional dance forms inspired me to the unique universe of ice dancing. This decision was motivated by an opportunity to leave my comfort zone and get immersed in a field that blends similarities and differences with my experiences.

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Celia Franca was a notable figure in the Canadian dancing history. In 1921, she was born in London England, where she began pursuing her journey as a ballet dancer. By 1930, Her compassion and talent in ballet flourished which resulted in her joining the leading ballet company in the United Kingdom known as Sadler's Wells Ballet which was later known as the Royal Ballet. Her compassion for artistic dance expanded as she found further interest in Choreography and directing. This interest played an important for the foundation of the National ballet of Canada in 1951. Her foundation of the National Ballet of Canada was an important landmark in Canadian history as it had a foundational role in establishing and popularizing ballet as an art form in Canada. Specifically, the Canada art form was primarily centered around the ideologies of Eurocentrism that dictated the ballet expression and limited the ideas of other communities. However, Franca's initiative not only allowed her to express other Ballet dance forms but also filled in the void of providing a platform for young Canadian ballet dancers to showcase and develop their talent. Furthermore, her leadership as a choreographer played an important role in creating a high reputation for performances and diverse art pieces ranging from classical ballet to contemporary works. This allowed for high standards for professional ballet.

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Brandon Owusu is a 31-year-old dancer born in Toronto who has been working professionally for over 10 years. In Toronto, he is known by the name “Bizzy Boom”, as well as on social media. Bizzy Boom has danced professionally alongside various popstars including Ariana Grande, French Montana, Rihanna, Drake, Sean Paul, and many more. Bizzy is a versatile dancer trained in African, hip-hop, dancehall, and capoeira styles. He stands on the foundation of allowing artists from all backgrounds to feel empowered to share their stories and contribute to the evolving narrative of dance. Brandon "Bizzy" Owusu has not only excelled in his career but has also become a leader for African-style dance, dismantling stereotypes and fostering appreciation for the rich cultural integrity it represents. His journey serves as an inspiration, showcasing the transformative power of dance in breaking boundaries and creating positive cultural impacts.

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When I first started this assignment I began by searching for Canadian dancers/choreographers and came upon many different options to do my assignment on. I researched many different Canadian dancers in search of a dancer that would inspire me to write about them when I stumbled upon Karen Kain. I read interviews she did where she talks of what dance used to be like during “the dance boom” and it made me wonder what I am missing out on being born in this generation. I did more research to see what her life was like, all the exciting things she got to do but also what she did with all her experiences. I chose Karen Kain to see what she was able to accomplish and the change she was able to do after being a prima ballerina. Also partially wondering what it would have been like to be a Prima ballerina during “the dance boom”.

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Josh Taylor has been an inspiration of mine and whom I owe everything to in terms of the Hip Hop culture and dance. Josh a dance studio owner, director, choreographer, and instructor. He is the owner of the first and only Hip Hop and Street Dance focused studio in the city of Hamilton, Ontario called Defining Movement Dance or in other words “DMD”. I have been a student at DMD for 15 years and now teach at this amazing studio. Within the curriculum Josh covers he also incorporates strong narratives and themes in his choreography and performances, exploring Hip-Hop culture, Pop culture, sociopolitical and social justice issues. He has created many productions regarding social injustices in the world and exploring uncomfortable conversations people may have regarding race, sex, gender, class, ethnicity, etc. Josh is an inspiration to many and I hope to be able to educate and love everyone the way that he does.

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Korean-Canadian K-Pop musician Mark Lee was born in Vancouver, Canada, on August 2, 1999, and is now living in Seoul. Born and raised in Vancouver, Mark was the first Canadian member of NCT, adding a multicultural perspective to the group. His upbringing in Canada helped him to act as a bridge for the exchange of ideas and respect between Eastern and Western cultures. As a rapper, Mark explores various topics and issues related to age and cultural differences. By fusing elements of hybridity, cultural diversity, and physical diversity into his body of work, Mark defies expectations. By doing this, he encourages the celebration of diversity in all of its complex presentations, inspiring not only NCT fans but also artists and fans worldwide.

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I chose to write about Santee Smith because of her experience and artistic work. Her experience is very important to me because I am very confused about how to enter society. But after according her experience, I am no longer confused, cause I understand that choosing and persisting in things you like is the best way to eliminate confusion. Secondly, the culture, balance and history in her artistic work deeply attracted me, these artistic works leading me into a new world, and I learned a lot knowledge from it.

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Last year, a friend took me to a performance by Red Sky dance company. The physically impressive and fluid choreography of the dancers, representing indigenous conceptualisations of limitless landscapes kept me spellbound. But it was only in DANC1340 that I truly comprehended the fraught role of indigenous dance in Canada’s history. So, I decided to write about Red Sky dance and through their work, I will explore the standing of indigenous dance in today’s society, the progress that has been made and the barriers that continue to exist.

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Collective of Black Artists, also known as "COBA" was the very first Black dance company established in Toronto to develop a professional platform for the Black community. They incorporate authentic traditional dance styles which are often deep rooted from their African rituals and historical roots. The company's efforts to embrace their unique Afro-carribean roots through art was praised by many publications including the Globe and Mail. COBA's dedication to showcasing African aesthetics extends beyonds the stage, and aims to inspire newer generations of their diverse cultural heritage through their workshops, and community classes. I knew I had to choose this company when I learned about their extensive efforts to establishing this platform for their community, even through all the challenges they faced because of their identity as Black individuals in Toronto. They were greatly discriminated against in Toronto due to their ethnicity and race, which hindered their ability to showcase their talents. As a coloured individual myself, I strongly connect with this dance company and their resilience behind this initiative. I really like how they stood up for their community, and created that safe space for Black artists. COBA continues to play a huge role in inspiring Black individuals, and other ethnic groups to fight for their rights, and to create an identity for themselves through the form of art.

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I decided to write about Anjali Patil: a master of Kathak (classical Indian dance form). She was born in Oshawa and has been a dancer and teacher in Kathak for almost 20 years. Her dedication to being connected to her cultural roots is what inspires me the most. She is the co-producer of Canada Yuva Mahotsav and produces ArohaFest - Canada's first bilingual festival celebrating the arts of India in Canada. She has expertise in providing online, group, and private classes and workshops along with group and solo performances.

-Annie Jhamb

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Arthur Murray Dance Studio of Woodbridge

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Arthur Murray Dance Studio of Woodbridge

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Arthur Murray Dance Studio of Woodbridge is a dance studio that specializes in teaching ballroom and latin dancing to all different ages. This location has been around for 21 years and has become so successful. I chose this studio for many reasons. The first being that this studio has been my second home since I was 5 years old. I started taking lessons here so long ago and still to this day continue to learn from them. This dance studio has taught me many things including my true passion for ballroom and latin dancing. The instructors at this studio have taught me how to fully understand the technique in dance and have pushed me to my full potential. I am proud to say that I am now on my 5th year of being an instructor and I feel so lucky to have this as a second family. This place is able to teach people of different ages, different ethnicities, and diverse cultures to dance anywhere, any time to any type of music. The studio's objective is to help as many people as they possibly can learn how to dance and as they say, it is time to “walk in and dance out”!

- Isabella Brown

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Red Sky Performance - Trace Excerpt 4 (Canadian Stage) Tr07

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Red Sky Performance - Trace Excerpt 4 (Canadian Stage) Tr07

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Red Sky Performance's work displays a commitment to breaking down dance hierarchies. Their unique and culturally varied works address indigeneity and cultural and physiological diversity. Their accomplishments and future objectives highlight the importance of their cause, making Red Sky Performance a beacon of hope for a more diverse and inclusive dance world.

In my opinion, Red Sky performance showcases the power of diversity in shaping the future of dance. Regardless of background, each dancer contributes to a vibrant and inclusive masterpiece. Their unique stories and creativity create a tapestry of inspiration, reminding us that every movement contributes to a symphony of unity.

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Permission Was Granted to Use This Photo

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The reason I chose a previous dance teacher, was because he made a tremendous impact on my dance journey. Not only was he able to accomplish so much through the industry, which inspired me, but he shared so much passion for dance through his teaching. Every day I worked with him, he never failed to make an impact on me. Whether I was dealing with mental or physical insecurities, he made his teaching environment the most positive and beautiful experience. I am extremely grateful for the impact he has made on me, and I continue to carry it with me through my journey dancing, especially these next four years of my dance degree.

-Olivia Williams

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Upon my research journey of finding an inspirational dance company or artist, I came across VYBE Dance Company which took my attention immediately. I found out about VYBE by a good friend of mine who is a student dancer there. I interviewed her on her experience with this company and received nothing but good and excellent reviews from her about their K-pop and HipHop classes. My friend and I share the similar interest of fun and dancing to feel happy all around, and she is encouraging me to join her at VYBE. Due to their incredible reviews and family like environment, I am 100% interested and one day will be expressing myself through their amazing dance style and teachings.

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Dancer Julia Sasso is well-known for her exquisite choreography and acting prowess. She is not only a gifted choreographer but also a superb dancer, art mentor, and master instructor. Her work was visible on YouTube. I was struck by her artistic ability when I first saw "Sporting Life." I was drawn to Sporting Life because of its depth and originality. This piece provokes serious thinking in the audience by exploring, via darkly funny dancing, the concerns of masculine aggression and violence in society. The audience is given the opportunity to see the merging of many body forms and cultures through the utilization of a range of action styles, themes, and inclusions of cultural and physical diversity. I may not have been first drawn to "Sporting Life" because of its profound meaning, but I immediately understood its significance when I watched the actor in the film collapse. restrained feelings. It's possible that there are many issues with aggression and violence in society, and these issues make people feel more depressed. Simultaneously, the dance features individuals of various racial and gender identities. Furthermore, the dance illustrates the differences between the sexes. For instance, despite being a man, he dances with a feminine stance and sports thick lipstick. The audience has a more profound experience because to this varied approach.

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I decided to write about my dance teacher. She's been teaching me for 10 years now and has helped me find my love for dance. She founded Lindance Academy of Performing arts, and has curated original dance dramas, such as her most recent "My Mulan dance drama" She is the reason I am the dancer I am today.

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Victor Quijada is a Canadian dance choreographer who is known for mixing contemporary dance and hip hop. Making two genres that seemed impossible to align into one. He has created some amazing pieces that have been performed all around the world. His work contains creative and versatile movement vocabulary. Some of his best works include "breakdown" and "elastic perspective".

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Outstanding Canadian dancer Santee Smith is. Santee Smith's multidisciplinary work The Mush Hole is a perfect subject for interdisciplinary study and creative invention. The intricate stage sets in this performance drew my attention and helped me to comprehend the overall meaning of the dance. It does a remarkable job of examining societal concerns, especially the intricacy and immeasurable suffering of Canada's Aboriginal past. I'm intrigued in "The Mush Hole" because it's not just a fantastic dance performance but also a cultural encounter that inspires introspection and strong feelings. This work covered a wide range of topics and improved my knowledge of social and historical concerns. I have taken engaged in historical research initiatives pertaining to indigenous peoples. I have a thorough understanding of how residential schools affect indigenous peoples because of these programs. Impact. There is a major social inequality here. Boarding schools compel pupils to adapt into a foreign environment while robbing them of their language and culture. This is an example of prejudice and oppression towards customary culture. The twisted gestures and quiet complaints in "The Mush Hole" gave me a better appreciation for the challenging circumstances faced by boarding school students. I decided to focus my investigation on The Mush Hole as a result.

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Vivine Scarlett is the artistic director of Dance Immersion, an organization that supports dancers, choreographers, and dances of the African diaspora. What drew me to write about her is her dedication and perseverance to create comfortable spaces and countless opportunities for underrepresented and unheard voices. Her platform is dedicated to promoting diversity which brings numerous benefits to individuals, communities, and society. I find it admirable that her promotion isn't only about acknowledging differences; it's also about embracing, cherishing, and celebrating them!

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I was extremely inspired by Santee Smith's life story and all that she represents after seeing her make a guest visit at one of my York University classes. Hearing about her family's history as Indigenous people, their connection, and their experiences with residential schools moved me. For me, it was an amazing learning experience to be able to see and absorb knowledge directly from Santee, who had a wonderful manner of sharing information. I could see how much love and emotion Santee pours into all of her work, and how everything she makes has purpose. This piqued my interest in learning more about Santee Smith and all that she has to offer not only to the dance community but to the world.

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Stacy Tookey is a Canadian choreographer and dancer. The reason I chose her is because she has accomplished so many things in her career that I aspire. She has choreographed and danced with huge artists such as Justin Timberlake, Céline Dion, Michael Bublé. She’s been apart of so you think you can dance, dancing with the stars, the next step etc… She also runs her own company where she mentors students from all over the world who want to pursue a career in the arts through her training program called The protégé movement and her pre professional program called The bridge movement.

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Maud Allan is a Canadian dancer, teacher, and choreographer. She was born in Toronto, Ontario in 1883 and passed away in 1956. Allan began as a self taught dancer. Her professional dancer career began in 1903 where she choreographed and performed many piece's to various musicians work. The piece that brought her to international fame was Vision of Salomé. This took place just prior to the first World War.

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On May 25th, 2022 I took a Dancehall workshop with Gyamfi at Waterloo University in Kitchener for DanceFest. It’s was one of the most interesting dance workshops I have ever done and not just for the fun dancing, he knew so much about every dance move he was teaching us. Where they originated from, who created it, when it was seen first and how today's societies have transformed it. I think this is so important because it shows his appreciation for the style that he's studied and now teaching people all over the world. Besides his awesome choreography hearing the knowledge he has about Hip-Hop, Dancehall/reggae dancing has furthered my interest in him and his relationship to the community of dance as a whole.

Warmly, Olivia Leask-Walker

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My aunt is the Founder, Artistic Director, Producer and Choreographer, “Natya Ratna” and her name is Smt. Nirothini Pararajasingam. The organization named Niro Dance Creations, Niruthya Kalanjali Academy, is the full name of the Fine Arts organization. It is focused on teaching and presenting Bharathanatyam, an Indian Classical dance form. There has been growth of many hundreds of students, and thirty three artists have completed their Arangetrams.