As I look back on the year, I am so thankful for the opportunities I've had to meet and dance alongside some amazing and talented people. 2011 has been a great year for me and I am thankful to everyone I met for their energy and support. Before I reflect on the new year, I have a few more things to share with you from the last two months.
In November, I was honoured to participate in "Conteur's" first-ever performance entitled "State of Mind". Video highlights are coming soon but if you want a sneak peek...please check out talented videographer Kody McWilliams link at: http://vimeo.com/32521873
I played 'mini' Melissa Mitro of 'SYTYCD' Canada fame in a piece called "La Force". It was very athletic and it was danced by Melissa Mitro, Bianca Melchior and myself. It consisted of a series of flash-backs and flash-forwards with us dancing the same introductory choreography, representing Melissa in three stages of her life.
The whole Conteur cast are very talented, as is the creator and director Eryn Waltman. I feel so lucky to have met her this year and consider her a friend. I look forward to many years training under her guidance. Please check out her website at www.conteurdancecompany.com and at www.OIPdance.com to learn about her schedule of classes!
I also had the opportunity at the last ASH Tour City to interview Wes Veldink, Master Teacher, Dancer and Choreographer. Below is a facebook link to his production company "Calm & Sense Creations". You can like his page and stay tuned on everything related to his company!
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Calm-Sense-Creations/112565525496835
Wes Veldink is a Contemporary teacher on faculty with ASH dance convention. He is a sought-after choreographer throughout the world and can be found teaching at Peridance, Steps and Broadway Dance Centre in New York.
I sat with Wes while at ASH Pittsburgh, where I am fortunate to be one of his ASH tour assistants. He kindly answered some questions for me:
M: How has the dance industry changed through the years?
W: With dance more mainstream and popular in the public eye I think young dancers have developed a narrow view of the dance industry. Look beyond the commercial world and discover dance companies and dance on film.
M: What advice do you have for dancers?
W: Dance is a journey and a lifestyle. Regard yourself as an artist. Surround yourself with other artists that inspire and challenge you. Don’t settle.
M: What qualities do you like in a dancer?
W: Imagination, empathy, passion, courage, the desire to evolve, express and share.
M: Who would you like to work with in the future?
W: I would like to work with Directors Pedro Almodovar, David Fincher and Spike Jones. I would like to work with musicians Roisin Murphy and Bjork.
The most interesting and affirmative piece of advice I learned from Wes was during a Question and Answer session. He said: "You drive the car, no one else. It is your career and your life". I feel this advice is so pertinent as we approach 2012 with new goals and purpose in mind! I can't wait to see him at ASH Philly in two days!
This month, I participated in the Karpov Ballet Academy premiere production of "The Nutcracker". I danced as a doll, in a duet 'Chinese Dance' and played the Nutcracker. Congratulations to Ms. Anna and Mr. Vladimir on the opening of their studio!
Last but not least, I took a Master Class with Juliette Irons at Canada's National Ballet School. Video highlights are below...her combos are always quirky and fun! It was great to see my friends Maddy and Robert from JCSOD and Bailey from Kicks too!
Thank you to everyone who has followed my blog since its inception, for sharing your love of dance with me, and for the opportunities to learn and grow as a dancer and artist! I look forward to 2012, sharing more of my experiences and things I've learned with you.
Special thanks to these individuals who impacted me in a special way: Wes, Eryn and Braham. To Irina, Teddy and Alison F for believing in me. And to my family for their constant love and support!!
Happy New Year everyone...please join me in 2012 for more "Move it with Maddie"!
