Dancing Particle Corporation Aspires for Enhanced Inclusion After Celebrating a Solid 25 Years
In the vibrant cultural landscape of Quebec, Corpuscule Danse stands out as a beacon of inclusivity and innovation in the world of dance. Founded in 2000 by France Geoffroy, Isaac Savoie, and Martine Lusignan, this groundbreaking company has been redefining notions of ability and fostering social inclusion for over two decades.
After the passing of France Geoffroy, Marie-Hélène Bellavance took over as the artistic and general co-director, joined by Georges-Nicolas Tremblay last year. Their shared vision is to continue radiating beyond Montreal, expanding the company's pool of artists and solidifying Corpuscule Danse's position as an unavoidable entity in the city.
The company's sustainability and recognition are crucial, and they launched a crowdfunding campaign in June to support their teaching programs. This support extends beyond the community, as Corpuscule Danse continues to grow with the backing of all three levels of government.
Corpuscule Danse initially focused on creating projects and performances but later integrated teaching and mediation as essential aspects. This holistic approach has been instrumental in promoting accessibility and challenging traditional dance aesthetics. Their work often opens dialogue about disability and performance, pushing boundaries and fostering dialogue.
As they approach their 25th anniversary, Corpuscule Danse is preparing for a celebration at the Espace libre theater in December next year. They are also planning two new creations for the next year, including a performance titled Melt, which will be presented at the KIADA inclusive dance festival in Seoul on August 15 next.
The artistic co-directors believe that professional recognition for artists with disabilities has come a long way in the last 25 years. However, they acknowledge that diversity is still lacking on current stages, and both political work and the deconstruction of dance norms must continue.
Corpuscule Danse dreams of offering a recognized professional training program for dance interpreters. They envision a future where discussions about disability and functional diversity are no longer necessary, a testament to their commitment to a more inclusive and accessible dance world.
Other companies working with neurodiverse individuals or people with disabilities have emerged in Quebec, such as Maï(g)wenn and the Toes and Joe Jack and John. These collaborations underscore the growing recognition and importance of inclusivity in the arts, a trend that Corpuscule Danse is proud to be a part of.
While the company's journey has been marked by milestones and achievements, it is also worth noting that inclusive dance is more expensive due to the need for specific accommodations, smaller class sizes, and accessible dance studios. This underscores the ongoing need for support and funding to ensure that these vital organisations can continue their work.
As Corpuscule Danse looks towards its future, it remains committed to its mission of promoting accessibility, fostering social inclusion, and redefining notions of ability in dance. Their work continues to challenge traditional dance aesthetics and open dialogue about disability and performance, making them a vital part of the dance world in Quebec and beyond.
- Corpuscule Danse, known for its holistic approach, also offers mediation and teaching as essential aspects of its work, promoting accessibility and challenging traditional dance aesthetics.
- As they prepare for their 25th anniversary, Corpuscule Danse is not only planning a celebration but also two new creations, including a performance titled Melt, to be presented at the KIADA inclusive dance festival in Seoul.
- Besides fostering discussions about disability and performance, Corpuscule Danse dreams of one day offering a recognized professional training program for dance interpreters, envisioning a future where such discussions are no longer necessary.
- Other companies working with neurodiverse individuals or people with disabilities, such as Maï(g)wenn and the Toes and Joe Jack and John, have emerged in Quebec, highlighting the growing recognition and importance of inclusivity in the arts, a trend Corpuscule Danse is proud to be a part of.
- Although inclusive dance is more expensive due to the need for specific accommodations, smaller class sizes, and accessible dance studios, Corpuscule Danse continues to seek support and funding to ensure its work promoting accessibility, fostering social inclusion, and redefining notions of ability in dance can continue.
