Year-In-Review 2023

Here are our highlights from 2023:

Discover Dance: Nova Dance is elevating artistic development in a myriad of ways. We took the Discover Dance Series to new heights by transforming it into an artist residency program this year supporting Dainty Smith, Eilish Shin-Culhane, SaMel Tanz, Candace Kumar, Irma Villfuerte, and Neena Jarayajan. This new structure has provided artists with invaluable resources and artistic guidance. 

Svāhā! in Vancouver: Our epic production, Svāhā!, took center stage as Indian Summer Festival’s marquee performance, captivating audiences with its virtuosic dancing and explosion of joy. In addition to building a Body Choir of local artists, the Nova Dance Vancouver cast had the honor of performing at a prestigious event for the Parliament of Canada. 

Svāhā! In The Park: collaboration with Jamii: Expanding the reach of Svāhā!, we shared an outdoor version of Svāhā! and artist conversations at David Crombie Park.  Bringing the magic of dance to outdoor spaces and fostering a deeper connection with the Jamii community.  

Deep End Week: A Journey into Rest and Reflection: Our annual Deep End Week embraced the theme of Rest and Reflection. The Guest Artist Series featured luminaries such as Andrea Nann, Vivine Scarlett, Tanisha Taitt, Karla Etienne, and Cole Alvis. Additionally, therapeutic art sessions with Rachel Mae Robbins, Body Unbreak sessions with Neena Jayarajan, and a unique floating/visualization experience with Nova, provided participants with a holistic approach to their well-being. 

We Will Remember This - A Captivating Journey in Print: This year marked a significant milestone for Nova Dance as Dance Collection Danse released 2020-2022 Writer in Residence, Brannavy Jeyasundaram’s, "We Will Remember This." The book's launch in Vancouver and Toronto was a celebration of the rich tapestry of our artistic journey, and we are thrilled to share this tangible piece of Nova Dance's legacy with the world.  We’re also pleased to be continuing the Writer in Residence program with Shivani Joshi. 

Empowering Dancers with Stability: Recognizing the importance of stability in the lives of our dancers, Nova Dance has transitioned dancers onto permanent part-time contracts. This move provides them with the stability, flexibility, and freedom, contributing to a more sustainable and fulfilling career in dance. 

Expanded Mentorship and Support for Artists: Nova Dance amplified its commitment to mentorship by welcoming two management associates and a finance manager. Their guidance is instrumental in providing artists with the resources and support needed to navigate the intricate landscape of the arts industry, while sharpening their administrative skills. 

Art Therapy at Nova Dance: New this year, we have brought on an Art Therapy Intern to provide both clinical Art Psychotherapy and non-clinical Art-As-Therapy sessions at various points throughout the year. This initiative creates a supportive space for our artists to explore their creativity and find healing in the therapeutic power of the arts.