Overview

Our first mixed bill begins with a gripping solo work from Mozambique-born, Toronto-based artist Pulga Muchochoma. Mascara will have you on a journey of self-discovery, as you question what “masks” you wear in life and what purpose they serve. Presented with live music. 

From New York City, Gibney Company makes its Toronto debut with the Canadian premiere of Swedish choreographer Johan Inger’s work Bliss. Matching the feeling of the legendary “Köln Concert” by jazz pianist Keith Jarrett - free, soaring and ecstatic - Inger translates the iconic score into a beautifully crafted dance, sending not only listeners, but audience members into a state of bliss.

Another Toronto debut, Candoco Dance Company from London, UK, opens the second act of the evening with their newest commission, I think we should start over, an unforgettable duet by British dancemaker Jamaal Burkmar that uses podcasts and audio recordings to unravel the unique patterns of communication and musicality between two people. 

Closing out the evening, Ballet BC from Vancouver returns to the FFDN stage exploring emotion, love and connection in Heart Drive, a stunning ensemble work from Dutch choreographic duo, Imre and Marne van Opstal, who are taking the contemporary dance world by storm.

View the playbill for this event.

PRODUCTION IMAGES

View the gallery

HEARTBEATS: Signature Programme 1 is a curated mixed bill of Canadian and international companies showcasing works by some of today's most exciting dancemakers. Below you'll find more detailed information about each dance work featured on the programme, as well as biographical information about the choreographers.

Pulga Muchochoma in Mascara
Presented with live music, composed and performed by Kobena Aquaa-Harrison 

Gibney Company in Bliss by Johan Inger

Candoco Dance Company in I think we should start over by Jamaal Burkmar

Ballet BC in Heart Drive by Imre and Marne van Opstal

Candoco Dance Company Movement Workshop

Taught by Caroline Lofthouse and Maiya Leeke

Wednesday Oct 4, 3:30 - 5:00 PM at Meridian Hall Rehearsal Hall
Please enter through the stage door, at 10 The Esplanade. You will be required to check in at the security desk before entering the building, then will be greeted by an FFDN representative to escort you to the studio.

Registration is required. Please email education@ffdnorth.com to secure your spot. If you have any access requirements, please indicate those in your email.

This is an open-level class (no dance experience required) for both disabled and able bodied individuals. The workshop will be taught by Caroline Lofthouse and Maiya Leeke, both of whom will be performing in the duet, i think we should start over, choreographed by Jamaal Burkmar, as part of HEARTBEATS: Signature Programme 1 on Oct 4 & 5 at 7:30 PM. 

This inclusive and accessible workshop, participants are offered an opportunity to experience choreographic tools and ideas behind the creation of the work. Join Maiya and Caroline as they share their unique techniques and guide participants through a series of engaging, people-centered movement practices.

About the Candoco Dance Company

Candoco is a world-leading professional dance company. Bridging the mainstream and the experimental, our bold approach and powerful collaborations create distinctive performances and far-reaching learning experiences.

We celebrate different ways of seeing, of being and of making art, putting us at the forefront of conversation around dance and disability and continually expanding perceptions of what dance can be.

Candoco has over 30 years experience of making engaging and accessible work, reaching new, diverse audiences in a variety of contexts, from the world’s leading stages to galleries, digital platforms and outdoor spaces.

We look forward to welcoming you!