TIDF 2024 | Chitra Natyam Workshop

IN PERSON

  • Oct-13-2024
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Chitra Natyam Workshop 

Rhythms United: Toronto International Dance  Festival 2024 (October 11-13, 2024)

Address: 5183 Sheppard Ave E, Toronto, ON M1B 5Z5

12:30-2:30 pm

Uyghur Dance Workshop 

Instructor: Chandna Talluri

Registration required!

Dancers from all disciplines, and movement forms such as circus arts, performance art, theatre arts and dance theatre welcome!

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TIDF 2024 | Uyghur Dance Workshop

IN PERSON

  • Oct-13-2024
Register for workshop

Uyghur Dance Workshop 

Rhythms United: Toronto International Dance  Festival 2024 (October 11-13, 2024)

Address: 5183 Sheppard Ave E, Toronto, ON M1B 5Z5

10:00 am-12 noon 

Uyghur Dance Workshop 

Instructor: Rahmatzhan Ioldashev

Registration required!

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BRAIDED RYTHMS - DAY 2 Toronto International Dance Festival

INDOOR FALL FESTIVAL (DAY 2)

  • Oct-12-2024
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Toronto International Dance Festival (TIDF 2024 Fall) is back with a bang! Get ready for an unforgettable evening of dance at the Chinese Cultural Centre Of Greater Toronto. Join us for "Braided Rhythms" a spectacular showcase of talent from around the globe as part of our three day weekend event. Experience the magic of different cultures coming together through the universal language of dance. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind event that will leave you mesmerized and inspired. Grab your FREE tickets now and get ready to be swept off your feet! Food vendors are available and this event is family friendly!

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TIDF 2024 | RHYTHMS UNITED

FALL - INDOOR

  • Oct-11-2024
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Toronto International Dance Festival (TIDF 2024 Fall) Presents "Rhythms United": A Three-Day Indoor Festival Celebrating Diversity and Excellence in Dance!

The Toronto International Dance Festival (TIDF) proudly announces its 2024 Fall indoor festival, "Rhythms United,” taking place from October 11-13, 2024, at the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto (CCCGT) located at 5183 Sheppard Ave E, Toronto, ON M1B 5Z5.

This exciting event brings together world-renowned dance artists and companies from diverse backgrounds, showcasing the rich tapestry of global dance forms and dance journeys.

Festival Highlights:

Day 1 (Oct 11): Rhythms Ignite – Festival Launch.

Time: 6:30 – 9:00 pm

Location: Executive Meeting Room & Dexter H.C. Man Hall (CCCGT)

Admission: Free - RSVP required.

Þ Official festival opening with media, international delegates, sponsors, and industry professionals

Þ Panel discussion: "Dance Career Development: Navigating the Diaspora, Touring & Professional Development": featuring panelists Nova Bhattacharya, Merey Ismailova, Parul Gupta, Robert Sauvey, and Chandna Talluri, moderated by festival curator Paromita Kar.

Light refreshments provided with RSVP

Day 2 (Oct 12): Braided Rhythms - Main Festival

Time: 6:00 – 9:00pm

Location: P C Ho Theater (CCCGT)

Admission: Free

Þ Indoor professional dance showcase featuring award winning Canadian and International dance

artists at P.C. Ho Theatre, Toronto.

Food available at venue.

Day 3 (Oct 13): Rhythm Works – Dance Workshops by International Artists

Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm

Location: Dance Studio (CCCGT)

Admission: Free - Registration required

Þ Dance workshops led by International dance artists.

Þ Uyghur Dance Workshop by Rahmatzhan Ioldashev (10:00 am- 12:00 noon):

learn the techniques and history of this unique and rich Central Asian dance tradition from award-winning international star Rahmatzhan Ioldashev of Kazakhstan, who is also among the performers for this year’s Festival Showcase. This is a dance form with ancient roots from the historic Silk Road.

Þ Chitra Natyam Workshop by Chandna Talluri (12:30-2:30 pm): join this rare opportunity to learn Chitra Natyam, a form which fuses dance with visual art, reflecting an exciting and innovative intersection of movement and artistic creation. Taught by international dancer Chandna Talluri who is one of the world’s few specialists of this unique performance tradition! Registration is required to provide the materials for this workshop.

Dancers from all disciplines and movement forms such as circus arts, theatre arts, performance art and dance theatre are welcome!

The festival team: 

Mary Ashok (Artistic Director) Gita Sankaran (Executive Director), Jaison Mathew (Public Relations Officer), Soni Marcus (Director), Paromita Kar (Festival Curator), Marcela Aranda (Program Manager), Kanchana Thuraisingham (Outreach Coordinator), Dr. Ashly Verghese (Sponsorship Coordinator), Ada Chu (Staff Administrator), Madhu Seralathan (Technical Support), and Gloria Gift Nankunda (Program Emcee).

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TIDF 2024 | Day1 - Rhythms Ignite

RSVP (Indoor)

  • Oct-11-2024
Register for workshop

Toronto International Dance Festival (TIDF 2024 Fall) Presents "Rhythms United": A Three-Day Indoor Festival Celebrating Diversity and Excellence in Dance!

The Toronto International Dance Festival (TIDF) proudly announces its 2024 Fall indoor festival, "Rhythms United,” taking place from October 11-13, 2024, at the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto (CCCGT) located at 5183 Sheppard Ave E, Toronto, ON M1B 5Z5.

This exciting event brings together world-renowned dance artists and companies from diverse backgrounds, showcasing the rich tapestry of global dance forms and dance journeys.

Day 1 (Oct 11): Rhythms Ignite – Festival Launch.

Time: 6:30 – 9:00 pm

Location: Executive Meeting Room & Dexter H.C. Man Hall (CCCGT)

Admission: Free - RSVP required.

Þ Official festival opening with media, international delegates, sponsors, and industry professionals

Þ Panel discussion: "Dance Career Development: Navigating the Diaspora, Touring & Professional Development": featuring panelists Nova Bhattacharya, Merey Ismailova, Parul Gupta, Robert Sauvey, and Chandna Talluri, moderated by festival curator Paromita Kar.

Light refreshments provided with RSVP

LIMITED SEATS!

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TIDF 2024 | FALL FESTIVAL ARTISTS CALL

FALL - INDOOR

  • Aug-15-2024
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All GTA based professional dance artists are invited to submit works for consideration for Toronto International Dance Festival 2024 Indoor showcase on Saturday, October 12, 2024! 

This year’s theme is “Braided Rhythms”. In this edition, we are especially inspired by dances which involve percussive rhythm the tap of a foot, the jingle of a jingle dance, and other body percussion-inspired dances, and how these dances can “weave” together to create a powerful, striking and dynamic tapestry of Toronto’s diversity.

Continuing TIDF’s tradition of inclusivity, all the sectors in Toronto’s professional dance mosaic, including the concert dance sector, the commercial dance sector, as well as dance artists creating, teaching and performing in a professional capacity within community settings are invited to send in proposals. This festival is open to all dance genres, and expressive movement forms.

We invite you to submit 8-10 minute extracts from previously performed productions, or new productions (all works must have video footage of the proposed piece so that we may get a visual sense of your proposed work!). Duration of performance must be 10 minutes or under, even if it is an extract of a longer piece. All accepted showcase pieces will receive an Artist Fee.

Please include in your submission:

1) Name of Artistic Lead (whether yourself as soloist or as Artistic Director of your Company)

2) Contact Information

3) About the Proposed Performance:

(i) Title of the Dance Piece (ii) Duration (iii) Genre/Style of Dance/Movement Form

(iv) Number of Performers (v) Names of Collaborators/Performers (vi) Technical Requirements

(viii) Description: a few lines about the piece, and how the proposed work relates to the theme of “braided rhythms” (ix) Please indicate if this is an extract from a previous production or a world premiere or a Toronto premiere.

For more information on registration and submissions, please visit our website.

The deadline to submit is 11:59 pm on August 15, 2024 

and applicants will be notified by August 31,2024.

Toronto International Dance Festival - Indoor Fall 2024 (3 Days) - will be held on Friday  11 - 13  October  2024 at Chinese Cultural Centre (5183 Sheppard Ave E, Scarborough, ON M1B 5Z5).


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TIDF 2024 | DANCE @THE SQUARE

OUTDOOR

  • Aug-03-2024
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Call for Artists: Toronto International Dance Festival 2024

DANCE @THE SQUARE

—————————

Join us in celebrating the beauty of diversity through the language of dance! We are thrilled to invite professional, community based, and emerging artists from all over Canada to participate in our upcoming International Dance Festival - Dance @the Square!

Event Highlights:

  • Diverse Dance Forms: From traditional to contemporary, showcase your unique dance style on our international stage.
  • Inclusive Participation: Open to professional dancers, passionate community artists, and emerging talents. Preference will be given to local artists.
  • Global Representation: Embrace and share the richness of your cultural dance traditions with a worldwide audience.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow artists, industry professionals, and dance enthusiasts.

Benefits for Participants:

  • Standard Honorarium: Recognizing the value of your artistry, selected artists will receive an approved standard honorarium.
  • International Exposure: Showcase your talent to a diverse and engaged audience, both onsite and through our virtual platform (Social media Live).
  • Collaborative Experience: Engage in cross-cultural collaborations and celebrate the unity of dance.

Submission Guidelines:

Application Deadline: May 31, 2024.

  • Open to: Professional, Community, and Emerging dancers.
  • Dance Forms: All genres and cultural dance styles are welcome.
  • Duration: 5- 10 Mins.
  • Submission Requirements: Provide a video sample of your performance, a brief artist bio, and contact details.

How to Apply:

Through this website submit your application and learn more about this exciting opportunity.

Let's come together in the spirit of multiculturalism, creating a harmonious dance mosaic that reflects the diversity of our global community. Your unique voice adds to the vibrancy of our festival!

📧 Contact: [email protected]

🌐 tidfcanada.com

📱416.788.6412 

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TIDF 2023 | NOVEMBER 26 SUNDAY

INDOOR FALL FESTIVAL (DAY 2)

  • Nov-26-2023
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DAY 2 - PROGRAM SCHEDULE: (click Read more)


Toronto International Dance Festival - Indoor Fall 2023  Second Day - will be held on Sunday 26th November,2023 at Chinese Cultural Centre (5183 Sheppard Ave E, Scarborough, ON M1B 5Z5).

DAY 2:

Sunday 26 November, 2023 @ 7 pm

Door Opens @ 6:30

6:50: Opening Videos

7:00 • Welcome Speech: Gita Sankaran (Director, DD Inc.)

7:02 . Opening Program

1.Group Name: Karika - Verses of Dance

Lead Choreographer/s: Ragamalika Mohanraj, Pallavi Maity and Avni Shirbur

Dance Style: Odissi

Karika - is defined as the verses of Upanishads and Karila also refers to She who instills certainty. She is said to be Nitya (the Eternal Woman). She brings about growth and development.

Karika is dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of Indian classical dance forms. With a profound understanding of the artistry and cultural significance of these dance styles. Our moto is to support working women who have a passion for dance. We hope to build a safe space where women can continue with their practice without feeling overwhelmed by external pressures. We strive to captivate the audiences and create a memorable experience through our performances.

Raga and Pallavi will be presenting ‘ANGIKAM’, which will be traditional Odissi (Odissi is a major ancient Indian classical dance that originated in the temples of Odisha) Choreographies reimagined as a Duet.

2.Group Name: Hoor Dance Team

Lead Choreographer/s: Anahita Nayebi

Dance Style: Persian Classical Dance

Journey of Womanhood - Our performance takes you through a woman’s life, from birth to eternal grace, using Persian dance, Tar, and Daaf. Birth: The Blossom of Innocence - We begin with the innocence of infancy, reflecting life’s possibilities through gentle Persian dance, accompanied by the Tar. Youth: The Dance of Passion - Youth comes alive with passionate Persian dance and Tar and Daaf, symbolizing exuberance and resilience. Adulthood: The Elegance of Maturity - Adulthood is portrayed with graceful Persian dance and Tar, celebrating strength and wisdom, supported by the Daaf. Motherhood: The Nurturers of Life - Motherhood is honored with soft Tar tunes and prayers through dance, focusing on maternal love. Elderly Wisdom: The Dance of Eternal Grace - Wisdom in old age is expressed through reflective danceand haunting Tar melodies.

3.Group Name: Arte Flamenco!

Lead Choreographer/s: Elena la Comadre

Dance Style: Flamenco (Traditional)

Dos Ritmos Flamencos (Two Flamenco Rhythms) - Bulerias and Sevillanas - features two rhythms in the genre of Flamenco dance. Bulerias has a special place in the world of flamenco. It is complex and yet it can lend itself to simplicity, always undergoing change, full of spontaneity and humor while embodying a festive quality. Dating back to the 19th century, it was birthed from the solea or alegrias as singers and dancers would finish off with a faster-paced, livelier palo or rhythm. Like many flamenco palos, there are many styles of the bulerias depending on their regions of birth, such as Jerez, Lebrija, Triana, Utrera, Cadiz and so on. The form bulerias is hard to master because of its improvisational element. Whether complicated or simple, the bulerias has a majestic quality of grace brought out by the individuality of the dancer, singer or guitarist. Sevillanas has many different expressions from classical to flamenco.  Therefore, it was and remains a socially important cultural expression. A bit of history states that the dance and rhythm of Sevillanas is strongly associated with the culture and people of Sevilla. Around the 15th century, this dance form developed in the historical region of Castile having its roots in an old Castilian dance called Seguidillas. Sevillanas gained its status as an independent genre by the 18th century as part of Escuela Bolera (Spanish Classical Dance).  It is a cross between Spanish folk dances and ballet influenced strongly by the French. By the year 1900, the escuela bolera tradition and for this dance, gave way to blending with flamenco - hence Sevillanas Flamencas.

4.Group Name: Saugandhikam Dance Academy

Lead Choreographer/s: Sanjukta Banerjee

Dance Style: Mohiniyaatam

Namami Gange - In the puranas, Ganga has been described as the apah of the heavens - the holiest of all waters. Emerging from the sweat of Lord Vishnu, Ganga is the gateway to Shiva Loka. But how did this river of the heavens become the source of life for the earth? From ancient days to modern times, Ganga has been personified through poetic imaginations. While in the mountains, she is described as a little girl, skipping over stones and pebbles, gazing at colorful butterflies and flowers in amazement, and humming to herself as she flows downstream. While entering the plains, Ganga is imagined as a lady in her youth – yuvati. Flanked by her sakhis, she babbles and giggles, sings, and dances, and almost unknowingly turns into a beautiful maiden – joyous, restless, energetic, and full of love and life. Her bold waves crash against the banks, awakening consciousness, and lifting souls. The genre of Mohiniyattam embellishes the Ganga stotram with rich technique and the expression component will harness the mood of this presentation.

5.Group Name: Dance Fachin

Lead Choreographer/s: Emma Bartolomucci

Dance Style: Contemporary Hip Hop

THE FOURTH R: reduce, reuse, recycle, Revolutionize! We all know the situation: the planet, the people and the animals are in a really tough spot. Animals and resources are becoming extinct, the CO2 levels are rising, and the Arctic is melting. But there is hope - and it’s US! Our story follows the journeys of three characters; a fossil fuel investor giant, a consumer of all things, and a person who lives in a place vulnerable to the effects of climate change. These characters are representatives of groups of people globally that share climate experiences. As our play unfolds, we see how their daily actions contribute to the rising emissions and in the end their ability for empathy will be the only cure to the disease.

What you are watching tonight is a short excerpt of a 40 minute long, full length work. Since its inception in 2020, The Fourth R has been shown 58 times across Canada (Toronto, across Ontario, Edmonton, Charlottetown & Halifax) and the UK (Edinburgh and Dalkeith). Visit dancefachin.com to learn more.

6.Group Name: Tdot Tdat Thai Dramatic Dance Troupe

Lead Choreographer/s: Jarucha Janmekha

Dance Style: Thai Classical Dance

Thai Blessing Dance - In Thai, the word rabam means “a synchronized dance”. Each dancer makes similar gestures and motions. The word Krit daab hiniharn means “power and glory”. So, now we know that Rabam Krit daab hiniharn is a synchronized dance for power and glory. This dance first appeared in the historical play “Kiertisak Thai” staged at the Silapakorn Theater in Bangkok in 1943. The dancers represent gods and angels who have gathered in joyful dance to honour the power and glory of the Thai nation. The scattering of fragrant flowers gives blessings to the audience. The lyrics of the song also carry a message of good wishes and happiness. So make a wish, and who knows? Maybe it will come true because of these blessings!

7.Group Name: Kaleidoscope Chinese Performing Arts (KCPA)

Lead Choreographer/s: Joyce Sheng/Sheila Song

Dance Style: Classical Chinese Han-Tang Dance

Dance to the Joy - "The Han-Tang Classical Chinese Dance" is a style of contemporary classical Chinese dance formed in an artistic process of refining and recreating the dance images in historical documents and cultural relics. It centers around the culture of the Han and Tang dynasties, but also includes a variety of historical dance forms from the Pre-Qin dynasty to the Ming and Qing dynasties, embodying the connotations of traditional Chinese aesthetics and artistic spirits. This dance pieces described a group of girls dance to the music with joy.

8.Group Name: Sapna Sehravat and Ayushi Sharma

Lead Choreographer/s: Sapna Sehravat and Ayushi Sharma

Dance Style: Odissi

Ardhanarishwar means half-woman lord. In this piece, Lord Shiva dances in his half-man, half-woman form representing the yogic concept of the human being having masculine and feminine aspects, equally. The feminine aspect is represented by Parvati, the consort of Shiva. The lyrics translate as follows:

“To Her whose body shines like molten gold, To Him whose body shines like burning camphor, To Her who has well made up hair, And to Him who has the matted locks 

I bow to you Shiva and Parvati.”

9.Group Name: ICONS

Lead Choreographer/s: Kristen and Lina

Dance Style: Afro Caribbean Fusion

Empowerment - ICONS are a dance group of 4 dynamic African and Caribbean women. We perform routines which highlight each of our unique cultures including San Tome, Jamaica and Guyana. We all have diverse dance backgrounds and bring each element of our culture to our routines. In every performance, we include moves, theme and song choices curated to empower women. Women empowerment is the focus of our team. We believe all women should stand in their power and be strongly represented in community and art spaces. We also want to highlight the vast culture of the diaspora and increase the visibility of African and Caribbean culture in a positive light.

10.Group Name: Prajakta David

Lead Choreographer/s: Prajakta David

Dance Style: Kathak (Indian Classical Dance from Northern India)

Goonj (Resonance) - When there is perfect synchronization between different elements, it gives rise to an experience beyond description - a resonance – Goonj. This piece presented in the Indian Classical dance form of Kathak showcases the resonance of the dancer with the music and vocals, and the aesthetic movement & footwork that accompanies it.

Goonj begins with a contemporary Chatarang, meaning four colours. The four colors of music in this piece are a poem about rain, a tarana, pakhawaj compositions and the melody. It is titled “Meha Barso” composed by Mr. Uday Ramdas and is set to Raag Megh in the 12 beats Drut Ektaal rhythm.

In the second half of the performance, the dancer transitions from the soft melody into a fast-paced technical presentation that highlights the most distinctive features of Kathak like footwork, chakkars and elegantly designed movements set to a rhythm of 16 beats, reaching a crescendo with multiple fast spins.

11.Group Name: Shivani Shivakumar

Lead Choreographer/s: Shivani Shivakumar

Dance Style: Bharatanatyam (Indian classical dance)

Shambhala - this is a Shiva keerthane which describes various aspects and elements of the lord of dance Nataraja. The first jathi will explore the ardhanarishwara form of lord shiva combined with his consort Parvati. 

12.Group Name: UV Movement

Lead Choreographer/s: Elisa Rosalia and Tahnee Reyes

Dance Style: Circus Arts

Ground Cube Duo - Tahnee and Elisa debuted their first duo performance in early 2018 after meeting in a pole class in Toronto. Two artists with a similar flair for adventure, they have created duo-work on several apparatus including pole, lollipop Lyra, aerial Lyra and are currently debuting a brand-new piece on a custom-built circus apparatus the LED ground cube! With backgrounds in dance, pole, aerial arts, and fitness, both partners are skilled in the art of creating a synchronized piece and are excited to share this custom creation with you today. 

13.Group Name: Roosara Dance

Lead Choreographer/s: Nilantha K Diyagu Baduge

Dance Style: Low Country Dance from SriLanka

The Devils Dance - Dances in low country are highly ritualistic. This form of dance is performed to appease evil spirits which cause sickness and is thus called ‘Devil Dance’. The dancers wear masks depicting many characters varied in forms of bird, demons, reptiles, etc. There are 18 main dances related to pahatharata style known as the Daha Ata Sanniya held to exorcise 18 types of diseases from the human body. The Low country dances of the southern plains mostly spread in coastal areas such as Galle, Matara, Hambanthota etc. It has two contents of Devil dance and Deity Dance. Dances in low country are highly ritualistic. This form of dance is performed to appease evil spirits which causes sickness and is thus called ‘Devil Dance’.

The dancers wear masks depicting many characters varied in forms of bird, demons, reptiles, etc. Deity Dances are used to get the help of variety of Gods and Goddesses, to appease evil spirits. There are some dances related to the Pahatharata (low country) style known as Daha Ata Sanniya held to exorcise 18 types of diseases from the human body. Furthermore, there are some Kolam (jovial) characters and Devil characters also can be seen. A cylindrical body drum used for low country dancing is called as “Yak Bera”, and it is beaten with both hands The Low Country dance form is known as such because the important schools of this dance form were historically located in the low-lying coastal areas of the Western and Southern Provinces. This form of dance was also known as Ruhunu Dance, as the areas of the present Western and Southern Provinces made up a greater part of the ancient Ruhunu Kingdom of Sri Lanka. Dances of Sri Lanka states that Low Country dances are very different from Kandyan dance—the only similarity being the basic mandiya pose of knees half bent and spread outward, and arms bent at the elbows in line with the chest. These dances are very ritualistic, and the use of masks is prevalent through all of them.

14.Group Name: The Candy Shop Dance 

Lead Choreographer/s: Lauren Lyn & Kaleela Dominic

Dance Style: Heels

The Candy Shop Dance

15.Group Name: Ballet Jörgen

Lead Choreographer/s: Bengt Jörgen

Dance Style: Classical Ballet

Excerpts from The Nutcracker: A Canadian Tradition, The performance will feature excerpts from Ballet Jörgen’s holiday classic The Nutcracker: A Canadian Tradition. Created by acclaimed choreographer and Artistic Director Bengt Jörgen to Tchaikovsky’s well-loved score, this delightful classic is a favourite that brings magic to the holidays. The ballet is set in and around Algonquin Park in 1912 and features Trillium flowers, loons and other distinct  Canadian representations replacing the traditional Nutcracker dances. Designed by award- winning designer Sue Lepage, the sets and costumes take audiences on a grand journey through northern landscapes filled with snowflakes, Mounties, raccoons, chipmunks, and bears. This season the production is celebrating its 15th anniversary with the addition a new section of Cottontail Rabbits.

16. Group Name: Mississauga Chinese Arts Organization

Lead Choreographer/s: Zheng Li/Maggie Ma

Dance Style: Classical Chinese Long Tassel Fan Dance

Peach Blooms Embrace the Moon - This is a classical Chinese dance, showcases the graceful, gentle, and sometimes bashful side of a group of young girls.  They are yearning for their homeland under the moon and peach blossoms.  Dancers using the fan, would pretend that they are looking into the mirror; looking at the moon; catching butterfly etc. This dance involves technics from Chinese Opera in manipulating the long tassel attached to the end of the fan. It is challenging to manipulate the tassel; therefore, we practiced a lot to perfect the skill.

Music of the dance is a compilation of three pieces that perfectly fit in with the theme.  May it be peaceful, lively, or graceful, are all covered. All in all, this is a beautiful dance combined with classical dance moves and fan/tassel technic, mesmerizing!


Closing Ceremony:

• Vote of Thanks: Mary Ashok (Managing Director, DDInc. / Artistic Director, TIDF) 

• Final Bow (Curtain Call)

• Photo Session

Please note: NO BREAKS; Foods/Drinks not allowed in the Auditorium; Flash Photography strictly prohibited. Use the photobooth provided.

SPONSORS | SUPPORTERS| MEDIA & COMPLETE PROGRAM SCHEDULE (CLICK HERE)

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TIDF 2023 | NOVEMBER 19 SUNDAY

INDOOR FALL FESTIVAL (DAY 1)

  • Nov-19-2023
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DAY 1 : PROGRAM SCHEDULE


Toronto International Dance Festival 2023

Sunday 19 November @ 7 pm

DOORS OPEN AT 6:50

Opening Ceremony.

• Welcome Speech: Mary Ashok (Managing Director, DDInc. / Artistic Director, TIDF)

• Inauguration

1. Gaana at Mac -Lead Choreographer: Surekha Thiruvarooran

Gaana At Mac is a team from McMaster University sharing the love and passion for the South Asian folk-dance style, Kuthu. Kuthu is a form of dance that varies in complexity as it is energetic, expressing and upbeat, as it symbolizes celebration and festivities. This dance style has been passed down for generations as it develops a positive outcome and environment for those involved. Gaana At Mac wishes to do the same within the community, especially in an educational setting where one can be involved to relieve stress, meet new people, and expand their skills.

2. Portuguese Cultural Centre of Mississauga Inc. Folklore Dance Group - Lead Choreographer: Andrew Da Camara

The Portuguese Cultural Centre of Mississauga (PCCM) was founded on February 26, 1974. Our Cultural Centre has proudly represented the Portuguese Community in Mississauga for over 40 years. We have over 500 active members and our facility runs on the hard work of our volunteers. There are over 40 volunteers that work tirelessly every week to ensure our Cultural Centre represents our community to the highest standards.

3. Ensemble Topaz - Lead Choreographer: Paromita Kar

Ensemble Topaz is honored to present Dances of Uzbekistan at TIDF 2023. These dances, done in the Ferghana style of Uzbek dance, are choreographed by Mashxura Tolibovna of Uzbekistan. The piece begins with the expressive dance "Gul", followed by "Dotarchki Kiz", danced with the instrument dotar, two-stringed instrument from Uzbekistan and found in regional variations throughout Central Asia and South Asia, and finally ending with the high energy "Andijon Polka".

4. Mimi Batho Independent Artist

 Jaripah is the dance from the history of the very famous “Barong Kemiren” in Banyuwangi, Indonesia as part of the ritual. This dance depicts a hero from Blambangan Kingdom with the same name, Jaripah.

5. Sakura Performance - Lead Choreographer: Umesh Anavkar

 Koli Dance is a popular folk dance of the Maharashtra and Goa states of India. It was created by Kolis of Mumbai, which is the fishermen community. The Koli Dance reflects the rhythm of the sea waves and all the festivals and life events of Kolis are always celebrated with Koli dance.

6. Nirkoda Israeli Dancers of Toronto - Lead Choreographer: Ronit Eizenman

Shalom – Peace

In the words of American singer and rapper Matisyahu:

All my life, I've been waitin' for

I've been prayin' for, for the people to say

That we don't wanna fight no more

There'll be no more wars, and our children will play.

In this new dance, Nirkoda Israeli Dancers express the pain and loss of war, the resolve to work towards peace, and the hope for a peaceful future for all people.

7. Mexican Folklore Group TONATIUH - Lead Choreographer: Adrianna Luz Castillo

 Mexican folkloric group Tonatiuh presenting dances from Guerrero south of Mexico from the coast near the famous Acapulco, the music has influence from the black people and is notice on the percussion and on the zapateado.

8. SG Expressions - Lead Choreographer: Sujatha Ganesh

SG Expressions performs Traditional Tamil unique item named Kolattom. Kolattom means Dance with sticks / Dandiya sticks. The song which we are performing is one of the first dance song on Kolattom describing the importance and specialities of women performing kolattom. The song name is Kolkal Aduvom

9. MM Entertainment - Lead Choreographer: Melanie McGregor

MM Entertainment is a Toronto based professional performance company specializing in live entertainment. MM Entertainment provides Toronto’s most interactive and entertaining live performers for your special events, weddings and corporate parties. MM Entertainment performers can be seen on stages across the GTA and internationally on TV and in music videos for both local and international artists. Their first performance is the MM Entertainment Fusion Bellydance!

10. Rangara Performing Arts - Lead Choreographers: Gayara Udawatta and Oshini Hewawaduge

This dance performance showcases not only the beauty of Sri Lanka's culture but also the unique techniques and skills required to perform the traditional dances. Sri Lankan cultural dances are not just body movements aligned to the beat of a Sri Lankan drum, but it also encompasses the history of the dance forms and the journey our predecessors took to bring this art form to the stage. The dancers of the Rangara Performing Arts Dance Academy will proudly bring Sri Lanka's culture, history and the high technicality of the dance forms to the stage.

11. BollySalsa - Lead Choreographer: Heer Dave

Heer, the queen of expressions in dance, joined forces with Deivy, a world-champion Latin dancer from Colombia, creating a mesmerizing fusion known as "Bollysalsa." Heer's versatile skills in Indian dance and storytelling merged seamlessly with Deivy's Latin flair. Their duets, a harmonious blend of cultures, celebrated diversity through dance, leaving audiences worldwide in awe. Beyond their performances, Heer and Deivy's partnership exemplified the unifying power of art, transcending boundaries and fostering connections across cultures, proving that dance is a universal language that can inspire and move people.

12. Elite Chinese Arts Troupe - Lead Choreographer: Selina Wang

The collision of tradition and modernity, the new look of Dai dance brings the audience into the bright moonlight, among the quiet mountains and rivers, the beautiful Dai girl, spinning in the melodious hat, swaying in the gorgeous skirt, fully showing off the beauty. Soft and romantic.

13. Sentir Venezuela - Lead Choreographer: Carla Soto

 Sentir Venezuela Cultural Group is a non-profit organization that wants to express, promote and encourage interest in Venezuelan culture in Canada, through their traditional music and dance. The performance they are doing today, aims for the audience to learn and enjoy the beautiful music, colours and movements Venezuelan dance has. First, they are going to perform a Venezuelan Waltz called El Diablo Anda Suelto composed by Heraclio Fernandez, followed by Venezuela, a musical piece by SV musicians, combining two well- known Joropo songs, their national dance.

14. Roots and Branches - Lead Choreographer: Tamla Matthews

The Dance is called Hallelujah and will perform to drums. Hallelujah is an intergenerational celebration of gratitude. The movement vocabulary comes from African and Caribbean traditional dance forms and embodies the act of giving thanks for life despite distractions and challenges. This performance group is a family-based group with the adults having over 20 years performance history. Hallelujah will be performed by mothers, fathers and aunties, along with their daughters and nieces.

15. Dantitude Dance & Entertainment Inc. - Lead Choreographer: Bowie Lin

 A gathering of exceptionally talented and experienced dancers from Dantitude came together to deliver a captivating performance that masterfully embodied the seamless fusion of diverse dance styles. In this showcase, we skillfully demonstrated our innate capacity to transition gracefully between dynamic, contemporary movements and the emotionally charged, expressive elements that are integral to urban dance. We earnestly aspire for our performance to resonate deeply with the audiences.

16. MM Entertainment - Lead Choreographer: Melanie McGregor

MM Entertainment is a Toronto based professional performance company specializing in live entertainment. MM Entertainment provides Toronto’s most interactive and entertaining live performers for your special events, weddings and corporate parties. MM Entertainment performers can be seen on stages across the GTA and internationally on TV and in music videos for both local and international artists. They are back with MM Entertainment Professional Disco Show!

17. Commercial Bollywood - Lead Choreographer: Shreya Notaney

 Shreya and her groups will perform an energetic dance that brings out the Colors of Bollywood!

18. Kaleidoscope Chinese Performing Arts (KCPA) - Lead Choreographer: Tracy Lee

 Dream of Dancing Butterflies:  Butterfly Dance is a traditional folk dance, which depicts a group of young woman transformed into a flower god and butterflies. It shows the fairy-like dance of the flower god and butterflies. With the help of traditional fan props and the technics of fan movement, showing the wings of the butterflies, the dance reveals a brisk the rhythm and graceful movements. The dance also reflects the beauty of nature and people's desire of harmony between humanity and nature.


Closing Ceremony:

• Vote of Thanks: Gita Sankaran (Director, DD Inc.)

• Final Bow (Curtain Call)

• Photo Session

Please note: NO BREAKS; Foods/Drinks not allowed in the Auditorium; Flash Photography strictly prohibited. Use the photobooth provided.


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TIDF 2023 | KATHAK DANCE WORKSHOP

IN PERSON

  • Nov-11-2023
Register for workshop

KATHAK DANCE WORKSHOP by GOURI KUNDU  @ Chinese Cultural Centre of Grater Toronto on November 11 Saturday  1 PM TO 2 PM

REGISTER FOR FREE!

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TIDF 2023 | CINEMATIC WORKSHOP

IN PERSON

  • Nov-11-2023
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CINEMATIC DANCE WORKSHOP by  CYNTHIA VINOLIN on November 11 Saturday 11 am to 1 pm

FREE REGISTRATION

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TIDF-2022 | OCTOBER 23| SUNDAY

INDOOR

  • Oct-23-2022
Register Now

PROGRAM SCHEDULE: (Starts at sharp 6 pm )

1.Karen Flamenco

Karen Flamenco is an acclaimed collaborative and established flamenco dance company; a leader in the creation, production and education of flamenco dance in Vancouver. Traditional and innovative, this company’s unique style and approach has expanded the mysterious world of flamenco to a wider audience with their collaboration of theatre and dance. They have made a valuable contribution to the development and culture of flamenco dance in Canada.

Karen Flamenco will be performing the Cogia Coles: Festive traditional dance forms from Spain.

2.Nupura School of Music & Dance

Nupura aims at introducing traditional South Indian culture to the student with a hope that the beauty, grace and wisdom embodied in it will become an integral part of his/her life, whatever his/her dreams and aspirations may be. South Indian classical music and dance, carrying with them generations of wisdom aging back to antiquity, becomes the chief medium of creating awareness in students. Nupura seeks to conserve and promote an awareness of this rich and heterogeneous cultural tapestry amongst the students through a focus on the classical arts, with their attendant legends, rituals, mythology, and philosophy to facilitate an awareness of their deeper and subtler values.

Nupura school of music and dance will be demonstrating a classical fusion performance combining the south Asian dance forms Bharatnatyam, Mohiniyattam and Kuchupudi. Bharatnatyam which originates from Tamilnadu, Mohiniyattam from Kerala and Kuchupudi from Andra Pradesh. Each of these forms have a distinctly unique style and execution of body movements which you will be able to clearly observe throughout the performance. It is the specialty of contrasting elements of these dance-forms working in unison according the music and rhythm which distributes its diverse and unique quality. This is a composition solely created to demonstrate the dance element of each art form. The Choreographer of this dance is Gayathri Devi Vijayakumar.

3.Nirkoda Israeli Dancers of Toronto

Nirkoda Israeli Dancers is a Toronto based dance troupe that celebrates Israeli and Jewish cultures through dance performance. Nirkoda performs a wide repertoire of traditional and contemporary Israeli and Jewish dances. The blend of old and new dances makes for stimulating and memorable performances. Since 2001, Nirkoda has represented the Jewish community of Toronto in numerous multi-cultural festivals and events in Toronto, Canada, North America and beyond. All members of Nirkoda are trained dancers that are united by their love of dance and their commitment to their Jewish heritage. The group is directed by Ronit Eizenman who is also its principal choreographer, and is supported by Congregation Darchei Noam. Performing tonight: Sara Gladstone, Gaby Heymann, Maya Kafri, Marsha Moshinsky, Dalila Rubin, Claudia Spector, Cheryl Wunch.

"This classic Israeli Dance performance was created to a soundtrack of 5 popular Israeli songs expressing the optimism of modern life in Israel. The lyrics describe images of Israeli landscape and scenes everyday life. The music is upbeat and full of youthful energy.

The dancers are combining traditional dance techniques with contemporary dance styles. Their movements reflect the excitement and enthusiasm in returning to stage performances after the pandemic.

Hakol Patu’ach in Hebrew means ‘everything is possible!’

Please give a warm welcome to Nirkoda Israeli Dancers in Hakol Patu’ach!

4.Mississauga Chinese Arts Organization

The Mississauga Chinese Arts Organization (MCAO) is a non-profit performing arts organization based in the city of Mississauga and dedicated to the presentation and production of a full spectrum of Chinese performing arts events for the City of Mississauga and the surrounding areas. It is also committed to providing opportunities for community members to practice and develop their artistic skills through various training and performing programs. 

MCAO will be performing "Beautiful Scenery" is a classical group dance. This is not a traditional classical dance that stresses just on the gentle and graceful femininity. Instead, the dance moves show strength, energy and determination towards a more contemporary style, such as throwing and flipping of the fan, the swift turns etc. Dance music is a famous traditional GuZheng music called “The fisherman’s Song at Dusk” with a contemporary arrangement. The dance begins with the moon rising above the sea, then the layers of the waves turn into flowers. As groups of dancers show casing different spirit and movements, it’s like different scenery appear in front of you. With the colorful traditional costumes and fan, make each scene even more spectacular. At the end as each dancer maneuver the fan behind their back, make one think layers of waves roll on the shore.

5. Vivarta Center for Performing Arts (Jayeeta Banerjee)

Jayeeta Banerjee is an acclaimed Bharatnattyam practitioner in the world of Indian classical dance. She is a disciple of Guru Dr. Thankamani Kutty and has also trained under Guru Sharmila Biswas. A recipient of several awards, scholarships and titles, including National Nrutya Bhusan Samman , Pt Jasraj National Scholarship for Bharatanatyam and IWD Rising star award for Performing arts by Dancing Damsels, Toronto. Jayeeta has devoted her life to dance and to achieving excellence at her art. She has gained wide acclaim and recognition from the press and audience for her performances in India, US, UEA, Singapore and Canada. Presently, Jayeeta is the artistic director of Vivarta Center for Performing Arts, Toronto which is her institution dedicated to research and learning of Bharatnattyam. 

"This composition is based on a popular Annamacharya sankeertana, a 15th century poet, -”Atavari guri toura” and choreographed exploring traditional puppetry dance theatre . The dancer explains the relationship between God and humans as the Puppeteer and the Puppets. The Divine Puppeteer

Choreography - Guru Sharmila Biswas

Music composition - Sathiraju Venumadhav"

6.The Toronto Thai Dramatic Arts Troupe

We are Tdot Tdat – The Toronto Thai Dramatic Arts Troupe, and we are committed to preserving and presenting traditional Thai dance. Our mission is to perfect Thai classical dance for the world to enjoy our authentic performances.

The Cymbals Dance (Thai: Rabam Ching) is named for the small cymbals (ching) used by the dancers. Cymbals are ancient musical instruments used not only in Thailand, but also in India, Nepal, Tibet, China, Korea, Japan, and around the world. The iconic sound of the small cymbal is a quintessential accompaniment to classical Thai dance performances. The Cymbal Dance is the only traditional Thai dance to place the cymbals in the hands of the dancers. Tdot Tdat performers are painstakingly sewn into ornate classical dance costumes and regalia, embodying mythical deities descended from Mount Meru. They use the sound of the cymbals to impart blessings of health, happiness, and good fortune. The long tassels attached to the cymbals accentuate the slow and elegant choreography.

7.Suprita Trilok & Priya Bangal

Suprita Trilok and Priya Bangal are a duo specializing in Odissi, a classical Dance style from Eastern India. Drawn to the grace and lyricism of the Odissi form, Suprita and Priya bring over a decade of combined performance experience to their debut as a duet. Priya and Suprita are trained extensively in Odissi with majority of that training being with the same master teacher, Shipra Avantica Mehrotra, currently based in Massachusetts in the USA. This has helped them achieve a heightened awareness of each other’s personal movement language, artistic choices and aesthetic values, some of which have co-evolved during their training with Ms. Mehrotra. As solo performers, they have performed widely in India and North America and are excited for their debut as a duo at TIDF.

“Pallavi” literally means blossoming. The melody and dance develop slowly and 'blossom' together into an exciting interplay of rhythm, virtuosic footwork and the effusive lyricism intrinsic to the Odissi form. This pallavi is composed to the raaga (melodic scale) called “Shankarabharanam” and is considered a treasure handed down by the master choreographer the late Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra, one of the architects of the Odissi form. The joyous melody delineated by classic choreography from the Odissi idiom has made it an enduring classic that is widely taught, practiced and performed all over the world. The traditional choreography has been reworked for a duet by master Odissi artiste Shipra Avantica Menrotra based in the USA. Priya and Suprita are thrilled to have a chance to dance this timeless number at their debut as a duo at TIDF 2022.

8.AJ Style Cine Dance Company

AJ Ajay Joshua is a dancer, choreographer and instructor specializing in Tamil Movie Dance Choreography. He has the distinction of dancing with popular Actors Prabhu Deva, Movie Choreographers Sridhar Master & Baba Baskar Master. He has participated in the Reality Dance Show called Jodi No 1, which was hosted by one of India's popular Television Channel Vijay TV and proudly won the Second Place in the year 2018. In addition, he has won awards in many other reality shows hosted by Doordarshan Television Channel and the popular Zee Tamil TV. He is currently teaching Cine Style Dance Classes for kids of all ages in the City of Scarborough, Town of Ajax and City of Brampton. Recently his students won the Title in the Canadian Dance Competition Kutties Aadalaama for 2022, under his choreography. He also won the prestigious Award for Best Choreographer in the same show.

AJ Cine Dance will be performing a free style dance dedicating to the Toronto International Dance Festival. Our theme is love which will include two different South Asian Movie style dance - western and folk.

9.Toronto Kathakali School

Rajish Ramankutty Nair, Founder and Director of Toronto Kathakali School is an internationally acclaimed Kathakali dancer born to Dr. Kalamandalam Ramankutty (a renowned Kathakali Artist) and Rajani Ramankutty on 16th October in Kerala, Southern part of India. He got proficiency under veteran gurus including his father. He has represented India at various international dance festivals in Italy, Greece, Libya, Russia, Thailand, Columbia and so on. Apart from Kathakali, he has also learnt and performed Semi-classical, Contemporary dance, Bollywood dance, Western dance and Hip-hop on various stages. Rajish founded Toronto Kathakali School in 2022 to showcase and preserve Kathakali on an international level and help people understand and learn the importance of this art form.

Kathakali is the traditional classical dance drama of India which is the most explicit, passionate, dynamic and colorful. This highly stylized dance drama is unique and a polestar among the galaxy of the Indian classical dance forms which is increasingly becoming an internationally popular art form without a close parallel in any other tradition in the world because of its aesthetic qualities and spiritual contents. Toronto Kathakali School will be showcasing a dance piece called "Purappadu" which is also called an Introductory Invocation. Here the dancer interprets their ideas and emotions through highly stylized medium of gestures, picturesque hand poses and vivid facial expressions. The various hand gestures are supported by related and expressive movements of the body and the eyes.

10.Ensemble Topaz

Ensemble Topaz is a Toronto and Hamilton-based dance and music company dedicated to the performance traditions from Central Asia and South Asia, including from Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, India and Pakistan. Led by their choreographer Paromita Kar (PhD, Dance Studies), Ensemble Topaz is the recipient of numerous grants from the Ontario Arts Council for under both Dance and Music Categories and has performed widely across North America and has also been featured in a number of international music videos.

Ensemble Topaz is pleased to present a suite of dances from Tajikistan in Central Asia. They begin with a traditional piece choreographed by Paromita Kar, followed by a choreography by Ustoz Mirzo Satorov (Choreographer of the Zebo Ensemble of Tajikistan), and finally ending with a high energy dance piece.

11.Gouri Kundu

Gouri Kundu is a promising Kathak dancer. She was introduced to Kathak Dance, one of the eight classical dances of India, from the tender age of five years under the guidance of Guru Smt. Sreelekha Mukherjee. She is now under the tutelage of Kathak exponent and Guru Dr. Malabika Mitra for the past 15 years. Being a diligent student, she has imbibed the essence of both ‘Lucknow’ and ‘Jaipur’ Gharanas of Kathak. The vigor of Jaipur and the soft delicacy of Lucknow are immaculately blended in her performance. She has performed in various dance festivals in India. She has also won the state-level Kathak competition in India and received many other recognitions.

Mothers are our greatest gifts. There is nothing sweeter than a mother's love. She goes out of her way to protect her children from evil. A mother's fortitude is incredible. Yet she is grace personified. A mother is the incarnation of Goddess Durga -- the powerful warrior goddess, the protector of peace and prosperity, the Divine nurturer. Her form is fierce but, at the same time, she is loving and compassionate. Gouri’s dance will be a worship of the Divine goddess in a mother. She will depict the Divine Mother’s power and love through traditional Kathak, one of India's eight classical dance forms, characterized by graceful movements, sharp pirouettes, scintillating footwork, and expressive storytelling.

12.Kamengo Culture Troupe

The Kamengo Cultural Troupe is visiting Canada from Kamengo, Uganda and they are five amazing and talented drummers and dancers.

The Kamengo Cultural Troupe plays drums, sings and perform various dances of East Africa.

13.Groupo Folklorico Tonatiuh

“Tonatiuh Mexican Dance group" is been around since 2002 but inn 2013 Luz Adriana the Dance director start with classes for kids, Her goal with the children group has been to promote and transmit the knowledge of her Mexican Culture and traditions through dance and events making sure the kids feel proud about their roots. Now the group has a kids group, teenagers , adults beginners and adults professional group now in 2022 2 more professional instructors are add to Tonatiuh Carlos Islas and Alejandra Arochi bringing into the group their professional experience as a teachers in Mexico city.

Presenting dances from the state of "Nayarit" s located a few minutes north of Puerto Vallarta .the music of Nayarit has many elements in common with the traditional music of Jalisco, like the Son and jarabe's are common. The Jarabe Nayarita, which is performed by a mariachi lineup made up of guitarrón, violin, guitar and vihuela is a combination of different sons where the men's demonstrate their skills dancing with machetes .

14.Sakura Performers

“SAKURA Performers” is a group of artists and performers, which includes singers, dancers, percussionists, painters, photographers and art directors. Their purpose is to promote Indian Folk and Bollywood Dances. Team SAKURA has been performing in GTA since 2019. So far they have performed in many prestigious events organized by “Panorama India Group”, “Taste of India”, “India Pavillon”, “Oshawa Senior Community Centre 55+”, “GTA Ladies Haldi kum kum Group” and ”Guyanese Community”.

"Team SAKURA is presenting their highly appreciated creation “Karma - an Indian folk dance, from the state of Chhattisgarh”. Karma is a dance form which is performed to please the god of “Karma” known as “Karam Devata” and to transcend the karma for fortune and wellbeing. It’s a tribal form of dance where men are dressed in pagadi and kurtas, with pea hen feathers on head and sea shells’ ornaments around the neck and body. Females wear knee length or dhoti pattern sarees with coin necklaces called “sikka” and snake pattern arm lets called “Nagmori”. They too wear pea hen feathers in hair.

The act is directed and choreographed by “Umesh Anavkar”. The act will be performed with live singing. It will be sung by “Surya Naik” and will be performed by “Kanchan Khaladkar”,”Niddhi Agrawal”,”Umesh Anavkar”,”Preeti Dhende”,”Apurva Joshi”. “Anu Agrawal” and “Siladitya Das” will be providing a back stage support."

15.Dantitude Dance

Dantitude is one of the largest and most popular entertainment organizations in the Greater Toronto Area. Since it was founded in 2014, it has been trusted and loved by over 1500 registered clients with ages from 3 to 55 years old. With 2 studio locations in North York and Markham. Dantitude is continually expanding and developing alongside its passionate and professional team. Dantitude’s programs encompass a wide spectrum, most notably: open dance classes, modeling courses, and live performances. It is dedicated to provide students a positive learning environment and exceptional experience for our clients that will last a lifetime.

“We dance with attitude”. Our team is devoted to pop culture and we are good at Jazz, Urban, and Kpop remix. At the 2022 Toronto International Dance Festival, we want to show the Kpop dance and our enthusiasm for dancing. The dance is about a remix of an iconic K-pop Song. The remix performance represents the classic and the most popular songs from K-pop culture. Our team wants to show the audience what K-pop is through their iconic music and dance remix.

16. Roosara Dance

Nilantha Karunarathna is a graduate from the University of Visual and Preforming Arts in Colombo, Sri Lanka. He was also the Principal dancer at the State Dance ensemble for many years before he started his dancing career in Canada. Nilantha started learning dancing at the age of six. This talented individual began his journey under the guidance of his Guru, Suranga Chandrasiri after which, he learnt and mastered under the world renowned dancing Guru, Ravibandu Vidyapathi. Nilantha is a versatile and a gifted dancer, who finds gratification by teaching and sharing his skills with his students. He prides in not only teaching students from his own community but also from other diverse communities irrespective of their language and culture which is truly what Canadian culture is all about. Nilantha was awarded the best dancer in all-Island competition for excellence in Kandyan Dance on five occasions; he was also given the best Actor at the Sri Lankan National Ballet Festival in 2006 just to mention a few of his achievements. Roosara Dance was founded by Nilantha Karunarathna in 2009 and is dedicated to the preservation, promotion and education of Sri Lankan culture through the ongoing development of Sri Lankan Traditional dance, Indian Classical dance and creative and innovative style of contemporary dance. Initially based in Toronto, Roosara dance company has expanded to Ottawa, Ontario in the recent years. Roosara Dance providing an excellent opportunity for many Sri Lankan students in Ottawa to learn exemplary traditional, innovative dance from the exemplary Artistic Director or Chroreographer. The vision of Roosara dance is to maintain the highest level of excellence of dance, to train future generations of dancers, and build local, national and international community support for classical and contemporary Sri Lankan dance styles.

The name of this dance production will be Salamba (anklet). This dance is going to be a fusion of Kandyan and Southern country dance style. We will use heavy, rhythmic drumming incorporated with masculine dance moves as well as feminine. The drumming will go hand in hand with the traditional dance songs. Kandyan dance: Kandyan dance also known as Udarata natum in Sinhala encompasses various dance forms popular and native to the area called Kandy of the Central Hills region known as Udarata in Sri Lanka, which have today spread to other parts of the country. It is an example of Sinhalese culture in Sri Lanka. Pahatherata: The Sri Lankan Low Country dance tradition is particularly important as a special performance dance tradition. The tradition was based on many special Shanti Karma methods due to the association of special faiths and belief systems, and the fusion with Asian cultures. There are three unique styles of this dance tradition depicting the three low country regions, Matara Bentara and Raigama. These dance styles have their own rituals, hand movements, singing styles and traditional decor. It exhibits clear identity characteristics in terms of decoration and theater configuration.The Matara style is spread around the cities and towns of Galle, Matara, and Hambantota, where as the Bentara style is spread in Bentara and Ambalangoda, and the Raigam style is spread around Olaboduwa, Horana and pokunuwita.

17.SG Expressions

SG Expressions is a performing Arts Company. we have been actively participating and performing all over GTA.

Traditional Tamil Kummi Dance.kummi yadi Kumm iadi kurava yittu dance is a popular folk dance of TamilNadu. Danced mostly by women in circle. simple with rhythmic clapping or beating of the drums. It is performed during the Harvest Festival Times. Kummi means dance with clapping of Hands

18.Mayura Creations

Mayura Creations is a passionate team of seasoned and budding, enthusiastic dancers of all age groups. The focus of this team is on the quality of the program delivered and we always come up with very innovative concepts and deliver unconventional themes in order to stand out from the crowd. Their goal is to ensure they do justice to the concepts undertaken through our song selection, choreography, costumes, and professional showcasing on the stage. 

Mayura Creations will be performing "Let’s celebrate DIWALI – The festival of LIGHTS!" A glowing performance to mark the eve of Diwali 2022 using colorful images of the neon lights. Witness the magic created by various types of LED lights and luminescent materials. This act of lights will be a visual feast for one and all. Get ready to see the victory of the forces of light over the forces of darkness.

19.Starz Dance Academy

To provide students with comprehensive and superior dance training while educating them in what it means to be an athlete, a leader, a student, an artist, and a teammate.

Starz Dance Academy will be performing a specialized choreography called "The Beast Mode".

20.Serbian Folk Dance Ensemble ANIP VEZ

The newly-founded Folk Dance and Song Ensemble "ANIP-VEZ" is currently the youngest Serbian Folk Dance ensemble in North America. It was founded in 2020 in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. The ensemble is made up of several different age groups. There are three children's ensembles, the 2nd ensemble and the 1st performing ensemble. Each member, depending on their age, talent or previous experience, becomes a member of a certain group. Based on their age, effort and experience, dancers progress to higher ensembles or participate in two ensembles. Our goal is to preserve Serbian folklore, songs and dances, as well as the culture, tradition and custom of Serbs from Serbia, the region and the former Yugoslav Republics.

Dancing tradition in Serbia is represented by various styles of dances in the country. As with other aspects of Serbian culture, different forms of dances originated in different parts of Serbia, developed according to the local traditions and also acquired elements from other parts of the country. Serbian folk dancing, kolo ("circle [dance]"), includes many varieties. Anip Vez will perform dances from Sumadija and dances from Leskovac region.

21.Elite Chinese Arts Troupe

Elite Chinese Arts Troupe (ECAT) was established in 2019 dedicated to the new generation of performing art. The team is full of young, passionate artists based in Toronto who are diligent in promoting art and creating quality visual experiences. These artists are eager to contribute to their community by infusing Chinese art and culture into a diverse span of regions.

Classical dance will reminds audiences of the wonderful night of the museum. A group of Tang San Cai maid figurines woke up in middle of night and slowly stretched herself. The memory of the rich, confident and magnificent historical features of the Tang Dynasty was demonstrated little by little, and the mottled colors gradually reappeared, from sculpture to resurrection.

22.DDA Canada

Delicious Dance Academy (DDA Canada) is a Bollywood dance academy started in 2018 with an intention of teaching dance lessons to Kids and Adults, in Mississauga. Since inception, DDA Canada has been performing for various prestigious events in and around Canada. DDA Canada is run by Twin brother, Linto & Lijo, where they bring 15+ years of dance expertise in teaching, choreography and entertainment. With an experience in performing with Bollywood Celebrities, like Diya Mirza, Mourni Roy and Aarti Chabria, the twin brothers are truly setting the stage on fire. DDA Canada also proved its worth in Fashion show choreography when it partnered with Mr & Mrs Telugu Canada event. DDA Canada has taught more than 250 students and been part of 70 events. DDA Canada has its studio classes for all age categories in Mississauga and London, along with Online dance classes.

DDA Canada is presenting the colorful and energetic dance form of Bollywood, which is loved by people around the world. This performance will send across the message that music has no boundaries.

Now it's SHOW TIME! 

World Dance Forms- All on one Stage! (Watch more than 30 Dance Styles at a time by 22 Dance Companies!)

Toronto International Dance Festival (Indoor Event)

on Sunday, 23 October 2022 @ 6 PM

@ Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto  (95183 Sheppard Ave E, Scarborough, ON M1B 5Z5)

It's FREE!

SORRY WE ARE SOLD OUT

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BELLY DANCE & YIN GODDESS WORKOUT

IN-PERSON

  • Oct-22-2022
Register for workshop

BELLY DANCE & YIN GODDESS WORKOUT

October 22 Saturday 11 am to 1 pm

@ Dance Studio - Chinese Cultural Centre ( 5183 Sheppard Ave E, Scarborough, ON M1B 5Z5)

Instructor: Arshiya Bhan is an Artist & Entrepreneur

 She is the founder of UMSRA, a brand with a mission to raise the conscious of humanity using performing arts, Wellness & Spirituality as the 3 elements. 



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K-POP DANCE WORKSHOP

IN-PERSON

  • Oct-22-2022
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K-POP DANCE WORKSHOP

October 22 Saturday   6.30 pm - 7.30 pm

LOCATION:

Dantitude Dance & Entertainment Inc.

Unit 217-218, 3447 Kennedy Rd Toronto ON

www.dantitude.com

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Bhangra and Bollywood Mashup.

IN-PERSON

  • Oct-22-2022
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Type : Bhangra and Bollywood Mashup.

Timings : 11:00 AM EST to 1:00 PM EST.

Date: Oct 22nd  

Day : Saturday

Studio Location: 4259 Sherwoodtowne Blvd Unit 1, Mississauga, ON L4Z 1Y5

Landmark : Near Anjappar / Square One , Downtown Mississauga.


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TIDF 2022: WORKSHOPS |OCT17-22 |

IN-PERSON | ONLINE (Via Zoom)

  • Sep-08-2022
Register for workshop

TIDF will be offering FREE online and in-person dance and movement workshops led by professional dance choreographers and instructors during TIDF 2022.

Come join us and feel the rhythm!

4 Days!

October 17 - October 22

Time for Online sessions and the Place for the in-person sessions will be informed later.

Duration: 30 Mins - 1 Hr

Those who REGISTER here will get a certificate of completion.It's FREE!

IF YOU ARE A PROFESSIONAL DANCE CHOREOGRAPHER AND INSTRUCTOR

AND READY TO LEAD A 30 MINS. DANCE WORKSHOP (ANY DANCE STYLES)

ON ANY OF THESE DAYS (OCTOBER 17-22)

EITHER IN-PERSON OR ONLINE

PLEASE REGISTER HERE


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TORONTO INTERNATIONAL DANCE FESTIVAL

Summer Outdoor Series

  • Nov-10-2020
Register Now

The TIDF Summer Series is an outdoor dance festival where artists can either perform a 10-minute piece of their dance work and/or engage the audience with a break-out dance session. TIDF aims to make this not only an artistic festival but also a social and cultural event.

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