Yesterday , Montreal was treated to a dazzling triple bill performance by Ballet BC held at Théâtre Maisonneuve, Place des Arts in celebration of the inauguration of the 27th season of Danse Danse.
Set to run from October 2nd to the 5th, 2024, Ballet BC delivered a jaw-dropping triptych showcase of contemporary dance, featuring the much-anticipated BOLERO X by rising star Shahar Binyamini and two breathtaking pieces by the company’s artistic director, Medhi Walerski—Silent Tides and Chamber.
The opening piece of the evening, Chamber, introduced the audience to a large ensemble format with a dynamic performance set to a stirring score by Joby Talbot.
Originally choreographed in 2012 for Nederlands Dans Theater, this rendition by Ballet BC was electrifying. The energy on stage was palpable, with each dancer, dressed in a semi-transparent nude colored body suit , contributing to a collective force that was both intricate and powerful. The choreography was bold and fast-paced, perfectly complementing the music’s intensity, and once again demonstrated Walerski’s unparalleled ability to command an ensemble of such size with precision and emotion.
Walerski’s Silent Tides, in contrast, offered a deeply introspective and intimate moment. Performed by just two dancers, the piece explored the delicate and complex relationship between individuals. With just a single neon light bar as a backdrop, the dancers’ graceful movements were filled with tenderness and vulnerability, inviting the audience into a dialogue of connection and distance, self and other.
The fluidity of the performance, paired with the subtle nuances of emotion, left a delicate impression, providing a perfect counterpoint to the grandeur of the upcoming grand finale .
Dancers Artists from Ballet BC + Arts Umbrella.
Photos © Michael Slobodian.
The evening closed with BOLERO X, an electrifying interpretation of Maurice Ravel’s iconic Bolero.
Rising star choreographer Binyamini captivated viewers from the first moment, using the hypnotic repetition of Ravel’s music as a vehicle to explore the collective strength of humanity.
Fifty dancers from various companies and schools across Canada , moved as one, their fluid motions building to a crescendo that left the audience spellbound. With graceful but powerful contortions as well as well placed footing, the physicality and extreme precision of the performers was noticeable and deeply appreciated by all.
The dancers could be described as almost transforming the stage into a living, breathing organism.
Each ripple and wave of motion seemed to pulse with emotion, creating a visceral experience that (judging by the lengthy curtain call and thunderous applause at the end), was certainly felt by every audience member in the room.
Bolero X was a masterful tribute to unity, power, and the collective human experience.
This triple bill was not only a triumph of choreography and performance but also a testament to Ballet BC’s commitment to pushing the physical and emotional boundaries of contemporary dance.
The post-show talks, offered on October 2 and 4, provided further insight into the creative process, allowing audiences to engage directly with the artists and gain a deeper appreciation for the work.
Overall, Ballet BC’s season launch was a resounding success, delivering an evening of dance that was both visually stunning and emotionally profound.
Ballet BC has set the bar incredibly high for Danse Danse’ 27th season.
About Danse Danse
Danse Danse, an associate presenter at Montreal’s Place des Arts, invites you to discover the best of contemporary dance from here and abroad in the heart of the Quartier des spectacles. Since its foundation in 1998, Danse Danse has offered a diversified program, rooted in the 21 stcentury, of new creations and landmark works from the contemporary repertoire. Danse Danse proudly contributes to the international outreach of Montreal, capital of dance and metropolis of movement.
To learn more about the show and to purchase tickets please visit the official site of Danse Danse: