KIN 2 - A Showcase of Contemporary Dance

What To Expect: A Work-In-Progress showing featuring two new contemporary dance works by Vancouver Island choreographers Kayla Henry and Karissa Barry, with live music by Finley Rose and Rick Laird.

Artist Talkback: After each performance, audiences are welcome to either depart or stay for a short artist talkback offering insight into the creative process, and a chance to ask questions or share feedback.

Fee: In an effort to help keep art accessible and acknowledge that these pieces are still in development, we have priced tickets as low as possible. Thanks for your support!

Doors:

• Lobby Doors: Open 30min before each show to enjoy a tea or coffee, and to observe a few photos and props.
• Theatre Doors: Open 15min before each show for rush seating (seats not assigned).

Content Warnings: Strobe lights and loud music. Not suitable for young kids, ages 6 + recommended, but please ask for more details if needed.

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Piece #1: "The Cledon" - Multidisciplinary (approx. 20-25 min)

Creators/Performers: Kayla Henry, Finley Rose, Rick Laird

Costume Design: Nicole Mandryk, Kayla Henry

Costume Construction: Radjuli

Projections: Valerie Salez, Melissa Flagg

Inspired by the concept of a cledon - an unexpected message from an unsuspecting source - this piece weaves together dance, live music, projections, and textiles to explore the relationships between forests, fungi, water, and humanity’s dependence on, and destruction of, these delicate yet powerful ecosystems.

The soundscape pulses with ambient birdsong, flows into river eddies and pools, and swells into moments of structured musicality. A droney yet passionate motif draws on Swedish folk traditions, while electro-acoustic sounds, both new and ancient, echo our longing for connection and nature’s intricate networks.

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Piece #2: “Holding Space" - Contemporary Dance (approx. 20-25 min)

Choreographer: Karissa Barry

Dancers: Sarah Hutton, Kayla Henry

“Holding Space” (working title), explores the layered experiences of coexistence, relationship dynamics, and individual spiritual evolution. At its core, the piece asks: How can two beings willingly show up for a relationship and hold space for each other - while honouring their own personal transformations?

Still in its early stages of development, the creation of this work feels like both a meditation and a map - one that traces the contours of relationship, presence, individuality, and honours the strength in vulnerability.

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Funders and Supporters: BC Arts Council, The Province of British Columbia, CRD Arts & Culture, Dance Victoria, The Music and Arts University of the City of Vienna, Westcoast Academy of Performing Arts, Island FanCon, and Vic City Homes.

Accessibility: Gender Neutral & Wheelchair Accessible Washroom available.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Dance Victoria, 2750 Quadra Street, Victoria, Canada