The Music Man – Virden style

The Music Man – Virden style

Once again I’m pleased as punch to be the dance partner for the prolifically talented and absolutely pleasant participants of Virden’s production of The Music Man (don’t you just love alliteration?). As guest choreographer I have the privilege of working with an artistic and production team which is beyond compare. Thanks especially to Music Director, Michelle Chyzyk, and Director, Dean Munchinsky for inviting me into your musical theatre family once again. And as Marian the Librarian & Harold Hill once said…”There was love all around, but I never heard it singing…Til there was you.” I send my sincere love to the entire cast, crew and everyone involved with Virden’s stellar production. I look forward to “76 more”.

Dancing With Parkinson’s

Dancing With Parkinson’s

There’s a new dance program in town!  Dancing with Parkinson’s Toronto, under the direction of Sarah Robichaud has joined forces with Tim Hague from Winnipeg’s U-Turn Parkinson’s group to bring the much anticipated DWP program to our city. As their inaugural instructor, I am thrilled with the opportunity to share my love and passion for dance with a community that is so vibrant. If you want to join us on Tuesday mornings, please check out http://uturnparkinsons.org

In the meantime, watch this great video and see if you can keep yourself from joining along….

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1468337933930291/?s=single_unit&__cft__[0]=AZXkk9aJxzzjeXQR7ornkrkGpXc-y13Oto-BEZiSc-uuj34Eedf6Q_Nfapu5cc4LYNp1ZpRc_0cCHYA0rYd4EVpEY5iqTgo00Py31iaeQnBArkkMLL0LsR4uaN3OpwSSML7yorF-ZeOIsu23grPUr9_aJE_5Rv97BmWMsR0nLwe7xOUZcXNxjAAYraDPaMH1r4E&__tn__=H-R

 

All Abilities Documentary

All Abilities Documentary

This summer I had the opportunity to create an original piece of choreography for my All Abilities Dancers.  Director Brandon Defoot from the organization Peoples First Canada filmed a documentary about the deinstitutionalization of MDC in Manitoba and treatment of individuals who live with disabilities.

Performed to Winnipeg artist Begonia’s beautiful song , “The Other Side, the scene offered a window into the struggles of disabled Manitobans and their to desire move forward with strength and positivity.

Manitoba Possible and I look forward to the world premiere at the Human Rights Museum in the new year.

Wall of Fame

Wall of Fame

It was my supreme pleasure to welcome my dear friend and colleague, Kayla Gordon to Rainbow Stage’s Wall of Fame. Over the years she has not only been a performer onstage, (we met in a 1981 production of Funny Girl) but has also been instrumental in training many of the actors, designers and artistic team members who have entered the profession. This is why she was recognized in the “Builder” category by our illustrious Wall of Fame Committee. Bravo Kayla!

Best Birthday!

Best Birthday!

Thanks to a very special person in my life, hubby Victor, I was treated to a “celebrity style” birthday bash recognizing my ‘paid to be my age” b’day. My sincere gratitude to everyone in attendance who made me feel so special and LOVED….especially the many friends, colleagues and family members from near and far. Looking forward to my next trip around the sun!A special shout-out to the band led by Terry and photographer- Kayla Gordon

World Police & Fire Games

World Police & Fire Games

On July 28th, Winnipeg was host to over 8000 athletes representing Police and Fire Fighters from around the world. Winnipeg Studio Theatre’s StudioWorks Academy was invited to participate in the amazing Opening Ceremonies event produced by Patrick Roberge Porductions (PRP). Our young performers literally rubbed shoulders with the athletes as they entered the Canada Life Centre, then performed a beautiful choral version of our National anthem followed by a stirring vocal tribute honouring fallen firefighters and members of the police force. I was truly a proud “musical theatre mama”!