propellerdance: the blog

New Session: Wheels, Energy, Motion

2011-12-14T20:37:00.002-05:00

Bring in the new year by exploring new movement possibilities through dance.

Live Music!

Dance workshops for people with physical disability.

Open to wheelchair users and people who use walkers and other types of mobility aides.

Six-week session

Tuesdays from 6:00-7:30 pm

January 24–February 28

Cost: $60 for the session, or $12 per class (subsidies available)

Patients of the Ottawa Hospital Rehabilitation Centre: Your first class is free as a trial.

Where: Ottawa Rehabilitation Centre Gymnasium, (505 Smyth Road, Ottawa)

Classes are taught by Alan Shain and Renata Soutter, co-founders of Propeller Dance.

Alan Shain is an internationally recognized artist with 20 years of experience in the performing arts. Renata Soutter is co-director of Propeller Dance.

Personal attendants are welcome at no extra charge

Community Day (and AGM)

2011-11-24T19:49:00.003-05:00

Saturday, December 3, 2011

1:00pm-2:30pm (AGM at 2:30pm)

Celebrate! Dance! Explore! Socialize!

Join members of our recreational classes and performing company for a festive celebration of our term.

Pay-what-you-can (Suggested $5 for students/low-income and $10 for others)

Bake Sale: Parents, friends, supports, please bring items for our bake sale.

Bring your piggy banks and an appetite for home baking.

AGM

Propeller Dance will be holding its annual general meeting in two steps this year. First, on Dec. 3 at 2:30 following the Community Day program and we will then seek an adjournment to review the financial statements in early 2012.

Volunteer Opportunities

2011-10-29T08:31:00.000-04:00

Propeller Dance needs your help—consider getting involved! Here’s what we need to sustain and grow:

Dance Supports – People with dance experience to volunteer at our recreational classes to support class participants

Committee Members for our Resource Development Committee

We are also in need of:

part-time donated office space,
storage space for our equipment, and
volunteers skilled in tech support, office administration and event organization to help us grow.

Please email us if you are interested in getting involved.

First Time On Tour: Getting Ready!

2011-10-28T20:18:00.004-04:00

Propeller Dance has been invited to perform in Kingston for the H’Art School’s Able Artist 2011 forum on November 22, 2011. Isn’t that exciting!! It’s basically an experience for professional artists with disabilities to connect and share their work. Besides Shara and Renata (Propeller’s co-artistic directors), there will be other dance, visual, and storytelling artists presenting. Alan Shain will be there. He is a great comedian, storyteller, and dance artist. Oh and guess what. He also helped start Propeller.

I’m really looking forward to seeing Menka and her company Les Productions des Pieds des Mains. I am really looking forward to watching her and her company perform. I watched her video and it’s amazing how she has someone who also has Down syndrome in her company.

All of us in the performing company are really excited to go on our very first road trip—with 3 wheelchairs! Two manual and one power. We already had a bit of a problem figuring out how to get there, so we are all carpooling with each other. It will give us time to socialize, relax and to get to know each other more. And we heard that they were having a problem finding a hotel with more than one or two accessible rooms! Guess an inclusive, barriers-free road trip could be a challenge! But that won’t stop us!

I’ve been to Kingston before. I went when I was in Special Olympic soccer. It’s great going back there again sharing what we love with an audience of other artists. This is a big step for Propeller. It’s great that Propeller is reaching out and making connections outside Ottawa.

I can’t wait for this performance. It’s going to be really fun. I can’t wait to work hard, stay fit and to perform. And I can’t wait to meet other artists who share the same passion as us.

Children's Program FRIEND + FAMILY DAY!

2011-10-27T11:28:00.002-04:00

Do you know children who enjoy moving? Come out on Saturday, November 5th to Propeller Dance's FRIEND + FAMILY DAY!

This is a free workshop to see what the Propeller Dance children's program is all about.

Churchill Alternative School (345 Ravenhill Dr., off Churchill and south of Richmond Rd. in Westboro)

9:30am-10:30am: ages 4-7

11:00am-12:00pm: ages 8-14

Why? Because ALL children need to express themselves and exercise. Children of all abilities are welcome, including family members.

Parents are welcome to watch on this day. For more information, email propellerdance@gmail.com or call 613-728-0823

Audition Notice

2011-10-26T13:11:00.003-04:00

Propeller Dance will be holding an audition for a spot in our company. We are looking to hire an ‘able-bodied’ professional contemporary dancer to join our company for the 2011-2012 season.

Check the official notice for more details.

To be invited to audition please email us your dance c.v.

The Propeller Dance Company will be rehearsing bi-weekly at the new dance studio in the Hintonberg Communtiy Centre.

Audition Details:

Friday November 4, 2011
1:00 to 3:00 pm, be ready to take a short class and perform an improv with a current company member
Pre-registration required. Please send your dance c.v. to: propellerdance@gmail.com

Propeller Dance is going to Kingston

2011-10-25T19:45:00.004-04:00

On November 22, Propeller Dance will be well represented in Kingston at H'art School's Able Artists 2011: a forum to experience the work of professional artists with disabilities.

Our co-directors, Renata Soutter and Shara Weaver will be speaking in the afternoon, along with our co-founder Alan Shain and 3 other presenters.

In the evening, our performing company will perform Exposure. Alan will be doing a comedy performance. And there will be performances from Picasso PRO and Les Production des Pieds des Mains.

This is especially exciting for us because it is the first road trip performance for our performing company.

What Is Technique?

2011-10-13T14:12:00.015-04:00

The Propeller Dance company is rehearsing two times a week and in these rehearsals we dedicate half of the class working on our technique and in the second half we work on choreography. Technique is basically about engaging your core and core strength. In the classes you learn about turns, directions, diagonals, speeds, feet positions and stretches. Technique also works with articulating your movements. In these technique classes we also learn about dance terms just like the tendu. A tendu is your leg extended with the toe pointing. Think of it as drawing a line in front of you.

Technique can also help you with other dance forms such as break dancing, hip hop and street dancing. You need to make sure that your body is well rested and that you need to eat healthy and properly. For me and for Propeller we all need to keep our bodies warmed up.

Before I didn’t even know what technique was. But now that I’m in Propeller and I’m taking classes in technique I’m starting to enjoy it. For me learning about technique is great. The only thing that’s hard for me is that I’m giving my weight to one foot then when it gets sore I go back to my other foot. Plus my knees are always turning out. Technique is hard but it’s a great workout. You can really learn a lot in these classes.

Just wait till our next show where you can see our technique in action!!

A Propeller New Year

2011-10-05T15:27:00.006-04:00

Imagine a dance studio, where dancers are leaping and spinning for joy. With laughter in their hearts and smiles on their faces they are excited to be back for a new year of performing, teaching and creating. We are all happy and thrilled to be working with each other again.

My name is Jessie Huggett, I’m 21 years old, and I have Down syndrome. I’m one of the company dancers in Propeller. Other dancers include Rob, Phil, Bella, Liz, Moni and as well as the co-directors Shara and Renata.

You’re probably wondering why I’m doing this. I will be writing this blog every week and I’ll be posting it up on the Propeller website. There will be interviews with the dancers and the co-directors, I’ll even tell you what the classes and the rehearsals are like. And I will update you on what Propeller is doing.

There is also a children’s program that runs through Propeller. The teaching assistants like Ximena, Liz, Bella and me are helping out the kids. And we are also really happy to be working with the kids again this year. This year the kids program team is kicking it up a notch. There is still room for new kids in the classes.

There are also recreational classes that Shara Weaver and Renata Soutter teach. Classes are Monday and Wednesday nights Propeller also has a website. If you want to check it out you can. You can reach us at www.propellerdance.com.

With the new year at hand Propeller is on it’s way to make a difference in the world. We hope you can join us to spread our message.

Congratulations to Ashley!

2011-08-11T10:08:00.003-04:00

From yourottawaregion.com

Ashley Hiscott was named volunteer of the year at the ninth annual Down Syndrome Association Charity Golf Classic, held at the Kanata Golf and Country Club on Monday, Aug. 8.

Cross Over - June 16 and 17

2011-05-03T18:30:00.002-04:00

Cross Over

Thursday June 16 and Friday June 17, 7:30pm

Performances - Live Music - Silent Auction

Shenkman Arts Centre, Richcraft Theatre

245 Centrum Boulevard, Orleans (Ottawa) ON

Presented by Propeller Dance, Cross Over is a new contemporary dance production highlighting the power and beauty of the human body. Cross Over will traverse the illusion of limitation by embracing infinite human creative potential. Dancers balance off centre, fly forward and tilt. The show includes new works by choreographers Renata Soutter and Shara Weaver, emerging company artists and works from our recreational community program.

Tickets: Adult $28, Child/Student $15

In person or (613) 580-2700

TDD 613-580-2715

www.shenkmanarts.ca

Facebook Event Page - Thursday - Friday

Coverage in the Ottawa South EMC

2010-12-20T18:55:00.002-05:00

You might want to read the article in the Ottawa South EMC about Propeller Dance from a reporter who attended Community Day.

Community Day Photos

2010-12-12T16:56:00.003-05:00

A big thanks to everyone who made Community Day so much fun!

If you have photos, we'd be happy to link to them or add them to our Flickr set.

You're invited to our Community Day

2010-11-28T16:44:00.003-05:00

Saturday, Dec. 11, 2pm-4pm
505 Smyth Road (Rehab Centre Gym)

Enjoy a works-in progress performance from the dance company
Celebrate the children and adult recreational programs
Commemorate International Day for People with Disability
Meet the Board, the staff and Propeller Dance Volunteers
Attend and participate in our Annual General Meeting (4pm-5pm)

$5 or pay what you can

See Alan Shain in Time to Put My Socks On

2010-07-06T21:11:00.004-04:00

One of Propeller Dance's founders, Alan Shain is appearing this week in a play:

Time to Put My Socks On
an edgy new comedy tackling disability, love and socks

Created by Alan Shain and Michele Decottignies (Stage Left Productions)

Directed by Michele Decottignes & Nicole Dunbar (Stage Left Productions)

Time To Put My Socks On follows Marc - a 30-something-year-old guy with cerebral palsy who is about to celebrate his first anniversary with Linda, his nondisabled partner. Marc is bursting with excitement. He loves Linda! Linda loves him! She is poised to move in ... Marc is plagued with doubts. Linda has a sock fetish. The more elaborate and colourful the sock the better! But Marc swears by white tube socks. They are quick and easy to put on. Can the love between Marc and Linda survive their war over socks?

"Hilarious and fearless!" - Michael Green, AD, High Performance Rodeo.

"A fascinating performance that challenges perceptions!" - Eye Weekly.

"Shain holds the stage with consummate ease as he spins the story of Marc." -Toronto Star.

July 8, 9, 10 @ 8PM; SATURDAY MATINEE@ 3PM

Preview July 7, P.W.Y.C.

THE IRVING GREENBERG THEATRE CENTRE STUDIO, 1233 WELLINGTON (at Holland)

TICKETS $15 /$13 students, seniors, artists, unwaged

$12 MATINEE

CALL 613-236-5196 TO RESERVE

Please specify if wheelchair seating is required

NO REFUNDS OR TICKET EXCHANGES

WARNING: Nudity & Adult Content

Links:

Shedding Light - Photos

2010-06-13T22:42:00.002-04:00

Congratulations to everyone who made Shedding Light such a huge success!

I took a bunch of photos. They're up on Flickr. There will be more coming soon because I wasn't even an official photographer.

... and good food and fun!

2010-05-26T12:00:00.003-04:00

Of course, at the end of the day we eat great food! (Liz and Jessie with a healthy salad) and for those who aren't tired, Ximena gives salsa lessons! Notice only Jessie and Ximena dancing!

Looking Outside Our Perspective

2010-05-26T11:56:00.002-04:00

May 25, 2010
Today we started the workshop by sensing our bodies while switching places in the circle. Then we worked on a piece about numbers, sensation, relation, time and design along with action and response. We also used a lot of shapes. As a whole group, I find that everyone is more aware of the space. It’s like when we are internal we are just in our own world and that we bring the attention to ourselves. As for being external, looking outside our perspective and dancing with other people in the space we find that you are getting to know them and you start to make a relationship. We are learning different moves that other people make. We are also learning to be more aware of what’s around us and that it’s not just about expressing your self it is also about learning and focusing on working hard to do the best that you can do.

Dance Is Life

2010-05-25T12:48:00.004-04:00

May 24, 2010

Yes we get lunch! And this is a picture of Alito Alessi on the grass outside the University of Calgary building where we all shared lunch.

Today at the workshop Alito Alessi taught us about touching and not touching, far and close with our dance partners. We also put together a great dance. We all worked together as a team. We put all of our creative ideas into one big product. Its amazing to see what everyone can do when we work as a team and when we are with our dance partners.

It reminds us that we are important to the world and that our voices need to be heard. As dancers, performers and teachers we see things that no one has ever seen before. Integrated dance is absolutely important in every way because if there wasn’t integrated dance in the world then no one would be included. Integrated dance should be part in every day life. There should be integrated dance classes in primary schools, kindergarten, Junior Kindergarten and Senior Kindergarten because every kid deserves a chance to express themselves. They also need to be heard.

I also realized that dance is not just a hobby it is life. It is life because it's a way to express yourself through inspiration and movement. Dance is a powerful way to speak.

MoMo dance workshop in Calgary Alberta

2010-05-24T00:17:00.002-04:00

May 23, 2010 Calgary Alberta

Today was the very first day of a week long dance workshop in Calgary. Six of us from Propeller Dance—Shara, Renata, Hannah, Liz, Ximena and Jessie (that’s me!) flew on airplanes from Ottawa to Calgary because we wanted to learn to be better teachers, dancers and performers in this workshop that MoMo Dance hosted for all people.

Alito Alessi taught us about sensation, relation, time and design. We were in groups of people we did not know. It helped us to communicate with other people and to get to know them through this area of strength.

“If you can breathe, you can dance.” That motto is true in every way because your breath can become movement. When Alito told us about sensation it released a cool breeze of relaxation for me.

This workshop is helping Propeller Dance a lot because we want to be better dancers and performers. It’s telling us that integrated dance is for all people who want to be integrated and to be equal. You don’t have to have a certain body type to dance. MoMo dance and Propeller dance are trying to break down the barriers that keep people who have disabilities “out of the way” or should I say segregated. If the barriers are out of the way the people who have disabilities and people without disabilities should be able to dance and to express their selves, together.

We are a global community, says Alito, and global means we include everyone. That is our full community.

Highlights today: I got to meet new people, I got to meet Alito! Chocolate fondue for dinner! And all us Propeller girls!

Shedding Light - June 11 and 12

2010-05-20T17:46:00.003-04:00

Tell your friends and buy your tickets to Shedding Light, Propeller Dance's annual performance showcase and silent auction.

Last year's Lift sold out and was named the best dance performance in Ottawa by Ottawa Xpress.
Shedding Light

Friday, June 11 and Saturday, June 12th; 7:30pm

Arts Court Theatre, 2 Daly Ave, Ottawa ON

Tickets - $25 (Students or Low Income - $15) Box Office - 613-564-7240 info@artscourt.ca (2 Daly Ave, Ottawa, ON )

Silent Auction - doors at 6:30pm; payment by cash or cheque only

A Look at Imagination Station

2010-05-18T20:17:00.002-04:00

Dorrie, whose daughter Gracie dances in the children's program has a posting on her blog about Sunday's performance with a bunch of photos.

Excerpt:

i was so proud of gracie for getting out there, not being afraid, no tears... and she performed and followed direction... seriously so cute...
and she had to wear the skirt.. it was a MUST!!!!!!!

Click here to go to Corrie's posting.

Propeller Kids Rock! and growl and grow and . . .

2010-05-17T20:09:00.002-04:00

Sunday was the Propeller Kids performance at the Richelieu-Vanier Community Centre. The kids danced really well and performed four pieces.

The first piece was the baby gorilla story performed by the 3–6 year olds, who also performed the flower piece. The 7–11 year olds then performed a piece about puppets and then a piece about objects they brought to class. Then the Propeller Performing group danced two black fly stories one was about how the hawk made peace with the northern woodland animals and the second was about a black fly who was left out because he couldn’t fly in a straight line.

Brenna Rivier, mom to Sadie, one of the dancers in the 3–6 year old class, loved the show.

“I am forever touched by the beauty of that moment of watching when one of our dancers has that inside feeling of YES!!! You see it as a twinkle in the eye, a smile across the face or a certain lift in the step or a faint, subtle tilt of the head and you know that inside that kid is beaming because they have done IT – whatever IT may be that for that child!! That is precious way beyond words!”

It was a great end to a wonderful year.

I really enjoyed helping teach the kids in the kids program this year along with Shara, Bella and Ximena on Saturday mornings. I had so much fun dancing with the kids and supporting them. I love teaching kids dance because it is an area that I have a strength in.

Jason Sonier is an awesome musician and I like working with him. His music is very energetic, inspirational and fun. He is also a great person once you get to know him. His music gets the kids dancing and it also makes the kids have a positive vibe.

As for Bella and Ximena, they have had a great time teaching. Bella helps the kids pay attention to what they are doing. She is a great performer and teaching assistant. Bella is also in the Propeller Performing Group. She brings her hard work, energy, positive attitude and her smile. Ximena loves dancing and helping kids. She contributes a lot of creativity and originality. She has a son Sebastian who volunteers with the program. He helps us a lot with the promotions for the classes. And Daniela. Outgoing and fun loving Daniela likes to dance too; she also likes socializing with the kids and having fun.

Shara Weaver!!!!!!!!!!!!! Shara is a stunning performer, teacher and co director and she inspires me to believe in myself, to express my feelings and thoughts through movement and to try new things. But most importantly the kids!!!!! The kids that we teach makes us feel joyful, happy, and exited. We are honored to teach them.

In Rehearsal May 11, 2010

2010-05-17T20:08:00.001-04:00

Today, I videotaped the rehearsal for the upcoming show on June 11 and 12. I talked about the performers in the company and I showed the co directors. I also showed the creative process of making a dance.

It takes a lot of time and energy to get the dance ready. Even though it’s hard work everyone still has time to enjoy themselves and have fun.

In Rehearsal May 6, 2010

2010-05-17T20:07:00.002-04:00

The Propeller Performing Group is working really hard on making its new piece, Shedding Light, a great performance. It’s in rehearsal now for the June show.

Since I’m not in it this year I will be video taping it and blogging about it.

In this piece you will see people using height, walking and running fast, tilts, stretches and different levels. They will also use chairs and a grid to set the stage. You will also get to see what it’s really like from a birds-eye view when the performing group is on the chairs. The music has high energy and it is fun. In my opinion this dance is coming together everyone is contributing creative input to make the dance better.

If you want to come and see the show contact Shara Weaver or Renata Soutter the contact info is on the website. It’s on June 11 and 12 at Arts Court Theatre.

This Sunday - Imagination Station

2010-05-11T16:48:00.004-04:00

Propeller Dance
Presents
IMAGINATION STATION

A dance performance for children, their families and friends

Sunday May 16 1:00 PM

Richelieu-Vanier Community Centre (auditorium)
300 Avenue des Pere-Blancs, Ottawa. Free Parking.

$10 adults, $5 children Info: 613-240-9775

Please note: Propeller Dance annual gala performance Shedding Light will be June 11th and 12th at Ottawa’s Arts Court Theatre.... more info coming soon

Broken Chords Review

2010-04-26T17:28:00.001-04:00

On April 23 I saw the Vincent Dance show at the NAC and they were amazing. The title of the dance was “Broken Chords,” and it was about Charlotte’s divorce (Charlotte Vincent is the choreographer). I actually felt that I was in the dance. It made me think about the pain and sorrow that Charlotte felt back then. The stage was set up almost like a movie theatre with lots of chairs in rows. Slowly one by one people from the Vincent Dance Company sat down or lay on the ground. When the music started the people began running and lifting their partners.

I liked the part when Kip (one of the dancers) began to introduce his jazz movements; it made the pain seem less strong. It was really funny. When I saw the duets I saw lots of strong, broad and delicate movements. They were giving their weight on their partners.

I recommend this dance company to viewers who are the ages of 13 and up. It was a pleasure working with the Vincent Dance Company and I hope that one day I can work with them in England!

Vincent Dance Gives Workshop to Propeller Dancers

2010-04-23T17:26:00.002-04:00

Tuesday April 20, Vincent Dance Theatre came and hosted a workshop with Propeller dance. They taught us about staying connected to our dance partners, the different moves you can make with your body and letting your arms loose so your dance partner can catch you when you dance.

In this workshop I learned a lot about different ways of moving. It’s great to get to know other dance companies around the world because we all experience the same passion. I am grateful for the Vincent Dance Theatre because they taught us other movements we didn’t already know.

Charlotte Vincent led the workshop along with her dancers Kip Johnson, Luisa Lazzaro, Harry Theaker, and Aurora Lubos. The music was really fun and energetic and it helped us a lot with our movements. It was all strings and it was upbeat and fun, with Patrycja Kujawsk on the violin and Alexandru Catona on the cello!

See the website at http://www.vincentdt.com/

Tonight, Friday April 23 I am going to see Vincent Dance at the NAC perform Broken Chords. Look for a review this weekend!

New Workshop Series - WHEELS, MOTION, ENERGY

2010-03-25T18:16:00.004-04:00

Propeller Dance announces a new 4-week workshop series for people with physical disabilities - Open to wheelchair users and people who use walkers and other types of mobility aides.

The workshops will be facilitated by Alan Shain and Liz Winkelaar and using improvisation concepts and techniques, we will explore movement which emanates from our bodies as disabled people. Classes will involve a combination of games and exercises with live music accompaniment by Rory Magill.

When: Mondays from 5:15 – 6:45pm; April 26, May 3, May 10, May 17

Where: The gymnasium, Ottawa Rehabilitation Centre
Para Transpo drop off: 505 Smyth
OC Transpo routes 106&16 Both are low floor routes

Cost: $10 per class or $35 for the 4-week session [Subsidies are available]

SPECIAL INTRO WORKSHOP: Come out and see what Propeller Dance is all about!

April 13, 6-8pm, The gymnasium, Ottawa Rehabilitation Centre
FREE OF CHARGE

For questions and to register contact:

Alan Shain - alanshain at yahoo.ca or 613-234-5742 or
Liz Winkelaar - winkelaar at rogers.com or 613-523-0050

Limited to 15 participants. Please register in advance.

A volunteer will be available to offer limited support to participants with class activities
Personal attendants and support workers are welcome at no extra charge

Workshop Facilitators:

Alan Shain is one of the co-founders of Propeller Dance. His performance disciplines include dance, theatre, storytelling, and stand-up comedy – all specific to the representation of the lived experience of disability. Alan has been a touring artist for the past 20-years garnering both national and international acclaim. Through performance, he aims to dispel myths and stereotypes about disabled people.

Liz Winkelaar has been studying and performing with Propeller Dance since 2005. Growing up in small town Ontario, she took lessons in ballet, jazz, and disco dancing. After becoming paralyzed in a motorcycle accident when she was 18, Liz concentrated on her family life and her career as an elementary school teacher. Later she earned a Masters degree in Canadian Studies at Carleton University, which led to an interest in disability art and culture and to an involvement in Propeller Dance. Liz strives to promote a strong voice for people with disabilities in the Ottawa arts community.

SPRING INTO ACTION!
… and show us whatcha got!

Special thanks to the Ottawa Rehabilitation Centre.
Propeller Dance thanks the generous support of the City of Ottawa and the Ontario Arts Council.

For the Love of Dance

2009-11-29T21:33:00.002-05:00

Our Performing Company peformed on Saturday evening as part of the multicultural performance extravaganza For the Love of Dance.

It was an amazing night of spectacular dance performances. Every year, the proceeds are donated to a charity and this year the the event raised $1700 for Propeller Dance!

I don't know what the organizers are planning for next year, but I plan to attend, whether Propeller Dance is invited or not.

[Click the photo to go to a Flickr photoset of images from the show.]

Vote for Lift in Ottawa Xpress Best of Ottawa Poll

2009-11-08T20:24:00.003-05:00

Propeller Dance’s LIFT performance is listed under the voting category Arts and Culture, Best Dance Performance in 2009, for Ottawa Xpress’ Best of Ottawa 09 Reader’s Poll, which “recognizes the people, places and things that make the National Capital a great place to live”.

If you agree that Lift deserves the award:

Follow the link below to vote, scroll down to Best Dance and choose Lift by Propeller Dance (you’ll also need to enter a minimum of 15 other choices for your entry to count):
http://www.ottawaxpress.ca/dossier/bestof/xpress2009.aspx

This is a popularity contest, encourage your friends and family to vote too!!!

The 8th Annual For the Love of Dance Multi-Cultural Dance Showcase

2009-10-27T17:54:00.003-04:00

Hello Propeller Dance Friends,

Consider booking your social calendar’s last weekend of November for dance. On Saturday, come out for a wonderful evening of dance and support Propeller Dance at the same time. Win-Win! On Sunday November 29th from 2:00 to 5:00 pm attend our Propeller Dance Community Day (More information to follow.)

The 8th Annual "For the Love of Dance" Multi-Cultural Dance Showcase!

Safiya and Anna are the organizers of this event, and we are most grateful to them.
Please join us for a spectacular evening of dance representing cultures from around the world!

Saturday November 28th, 2009

University of Ottawa Alumni Theatre (85 University Street, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5‎) Wheelchair accessible.

7:30 - 10:00 pm

Tickets will be $10 in advance, $15 at the door. (Contact safiyadancer@gmail.com for pre-show tickets)

Last year's event sold out and raised $1500 for The Leading Note Foundation thanks to overwhelming audience support. Showcased were dance styles such as Bellydance, Venezuelan Folk, Swing, Persian, Irish, Flamenco, Latin Jazz, Celtic Fusion and more.

This year's aim is to create just as diverse and spectacular a show...with all proceeds donated to Propeller Dance. This year's lineup includes Tango, Raks Khaleeji, Tap, Vietnamese and African dance, Swing, Tribal, Contemporary, Bellydance and more!

Download PDF Poster

Propeller Dance on CBC Digital

2009-10-08T17:46:00.000-04:00

Saturday, October 10th at 6 pm: Tune in to CBC’s digital cable channel BOLD on channel 277 on Rogers for Creative Block for a segment on Propeller Dance.

The piece will air again:

Sunday October 11th 4 am
Thursday October 15th 1 pm and 4 pm

The Music Gear

2009-07-12T21:32:00.002-04:00

Mark R. gives an insider's view of the music gear used at Lift on his blog. Click the photo to go there.

After Lift

2009-06-21T20:43:00.003-04:00

With the huge boost we all got from Lift, it lived up to its name. After all the hard work, we've earned a break over the summer

Photos that I and Manon Blouin took are up on Flickr and we'll put others up when we get them.

Silent Auction Items

2009-06-14T19:56:00.004-04:00

Here is a preview of some of the items that will be available in the silent auction at Lift on Friday.

Larger photos of some of these items are in a Flikr set.

Painting by Amanda Lloyd

Stormy Sea

Donated by H'Art of Ottawa

Painting by Anna Coulombe

Frog King and his Palace

Donated by H'Art of Ottawa

Painting by Bella Bowes

Angels Dancing at Midnight

Donated by H'Art of Ottawa

Teapot by Chandler Swain

handmade

Donated by Chandler Swain

Painting by Chris Glor-Bell

Honey Bees in the Spring

Donated by H'Art of Ottawa

Book: Bagel's Lucky Hat by Hector Mumbly and Dave Cooper

Poor Bagel, he wakes up one morning to realize he's lost his lucky hat! His friend Becky helps him mentally retrace his steps, but the story Bagel tells of yesterday's adventures quickly gets out of hand. Laughing fishes? A mad scientist? A space-travelling robot? Bagel's story is just too silly to be believed ... or is it?

Donated by Dave Cooper

Certificate: 1 -hour Thai Yoga Massage or Reiki

Donated by Eileen Scully

Painting

Donated by Jane Hampson

Dreamcatcher

Handbeaded, glass

Donated by Joanne Debassige

Maternity Portrait Package

2-hour studio or location portrait sitting;
3 hi resolution touched up images;
CD of hi resolution images

Donated by MusicBox Photography

Necklace

Freshwater pearls (brown, champagne and lime)

Donated by Louise Crandall

Polo Lessons for 4 (or Riding Lessons)

and a plush horsie

Donated by Pot O’ Gold Stables and Crossroads Equestrian Centre – Terry Vieweg and Dara Wagner

Tutu and Puzzle

Size 4, Ontario-made, cotton and tulle dress;
36-pc DJECO puzzle of ballerina from France

Donated by Red Chair Kids

Dinner at the Village Café

$50 for any meal

Donated by The Village Café

Silver Bracelet

with enamel

Donated by Anonymous

$50 Certificate

Good for any spining, weaving, knitting course

Donated by Wabi-Sabi – Carol Secord

4 Free Classes

Classical Hatha Yoga Akhanda Style

Donated by Yoga in the Gallery by Erika Mills

6 Pendants

Semi-precious stones

Donated by Anonymous

Quilt

34"x42"

Donated by Anonymous

Ear rings

Donated by Martin and Uta Soutter

Shell inlay jewellry box

Donated by Martin and Uta Soutter

Sleek Look Salon $75 Gift Certificate

Hair and Spa

Donated by Sleek Look Salon

Lift: Friday June 19, 2009 at 7:00 pm

2009-06-02T20:56:00.003-04:00

Dear Friends and Supporters of Propeller Dance,
Tickets are now on sale for

{Lift}

a celebration and evening of performance works by Propeller Dance artists

Performances Live Music Silent Auction

Regular $26
Special Supporter $56
Box office 613-236-5196
Irving Greenberg Theatre Centre Mainstage

Friday June 19, 2009 at 7:00 pm

Your attendance and support helps us sustain the vital growth of integrated dance in Canada.

If you can't make it, please consider making a donation. We are happy to announce that we are now a registered charity.

Mark and his Drum Bike on TV this Week

2009-03-03T20:57:00.004-05:00

Propeller Dance Musician Mark Rehder reports that he will be on TV this week demonstrating his winter-cycling skillz.

Living in Ottawa
Thu, Mar 5, 3:00 PM
CBC -TV (Channel 8 - Rogers Cable)

If you miss it, the show will be on the web in the show's archives (I'll post the link here).

View Finder - Video - Performance at Arts Court; Nov 13, 14

2009-02-16T20:07:00.002-05:00

View Finder

Also available on Youtube

Winter Classes! If you breathe, you can dance!

2009-01-01T21:53:00.000-05:00

Register now for the Fall session:

Monday Youth/Adult Class (Age 15+)
January 5 to March 9, 2009 (No class on Family Day, February 16, 2009)

6:30-8:00PM

9-week session at Richelieu-Vanier Community Centre
300, ave des Peres Blancs, Ottawa (Vanier) ON
Instructor: Renata Soutter Musician: Mark Rehder
To register: phone (819) 773-7523
$90 for the session; subsidies are available.

Thursday Youth/Adult Class (Age 15+)
January 8 to February 12 (6-week session; $60);
Spring session: March 5, 12, 26, April 2, 16, 23, May 7, 14, 21, 28 (10-week session; $100)

7:00 to 8:30PM

Nepean Creative Arts Centre
35 Stafford Road (Richmond Rd exit) in Bell's Corners
Instructor: Shara Weaver Musician: Mike Essoudry
To register: phone (613) 240-9775
$110 for the session; subsidies are available.

Saturday Children's Classes
January 10, 17, 24, 31 and February 7

5-week session at Nepean Creative Arts Centre,
Children aged 3 to 6: 9:30 to 10:30AM
Children aged 7 to 11: 10:45AM to 12:00 noon
35 Stafford Road in Bell's Corners [Map]
Instructor: Shara Weaver
Teaching Assistants: Ximena Puente, Jessie Huggett
Musician: Jason Sonier
To register: phone (613) 240-9775
$50 for the session; subsidies are available

Fees are due at the first class of the session.

No person will be turned away for financial reasons. Subsidies are available, and class fees are on a sliding scale.

Our classes use a dance improvisation method that is open to all people. Participants use their own natural movements in exercises that emphasize independent choices. We introduce concepts such as warm up’s, pathways, spacing, rhythm and movement phrasing.

Our First AGM

2008-12-16T22:42:00.004-05:00

The biggest news about our First Annual General Meeting of members of Propeller Dance is that it happened. Propeller Dance has made it through more than a year of operations and the members, people involved in the organization who support its goals, are in charge.

The AGM received reports from the President (me), the Treasurer (Elizabeth MacKinnon), and our Executive/Artistic C0-Directors (Renata Soutter and Shara Weaver).

The AGM ratified the Board of Directors decision to expand the number of directors from 3 to 4 and unanimously acclaimed the nominees, all of whom had been serving as directors either since we incorporated or shortly after. The directors are:

Bob Bowes
Rob Chartier
Elizabeth MacKinnon
David Scrimshaw

Community Day Photos

2008-12-16T22:05:00.003-05:00

I took so many photos on Community Day that I filled my memory card and had to delete blurry shots so I could take more.

Click the photo mosaic to go to my Flickr set.

I'll be happy to add other photos to the Flickr sets, or post links to other people's web collections.

One of the great things about Community Day is the opportunity it gives us to thank each other. Here we see Ximena and Jesse being thanked by Shara for all the wonderful work they have been doing with Shara in the children's classes.

View Finder - More Photos

2008-11-18T21:44:00.004-05:00

Steve Beaton's photos of View Finder's dress rehearsal and Thursday performance are now online at http://talonet.ca/prop/thumbnails.php?album=1

View Finder - the After Glow

2008-11-16T13:59:00.004-05:00

Huge congratulations to Shara, Renata and Alan for their fantastic View Finder performances on Thursday and Friday.

Now we just have to raise the money to fly them to Auckland, New Zealand for Momentum '09, the International Disability Art Symposium from the 25 to 28 February 2009.

Other View Finder links:

Photos on Flickr [More will be added as photographers get them to us.]
CBC Radio Interview with Alan and Renata: Propeller Dance: unique dance troupe at Arts Court
Ken Emig (Set designer): View Finder Stage Set

View Finder - Performance at Arts Court; Nov 13, 14; 7:30pm

2008-11-05T22:16:00.003-05:00

Three dancers, one exploration in time and space. What do you perceive?

View Finder is a dance work choreographed and performed by the founders of Propeller Dance: Shara Weaver, Renata Soutter and Alan Shain.

Tickets: $15 and $10 (unwaged)
Arts Court box office: 613-564-7240

Arts Court Theatre and washrooms are wheelchair accessible. The wheelchair entrance is to the left of the main entrance at 2 Daly Avenue.

Check out Mark Rehder's Blog

2008-06-12T23:13:00.001-04:00

Mark's musical setup

Mark Rehder, a man of many talents and musician for the Monday Night Class has a blog called Drumbent - Tales of (Mostly) Music and Motion.

In his latest posting about last week's performance, he provides a fascinating look at the musical side of the show. It never occurred to me that our musicians might be feeling challenged and pushed out of their comfort zone just like us dancers.

Here's an excerpt from Mark:

... I've spent most of my life sitting behind a drumset and playing fairly straightforward music. Yes, I can of course improvise (and love to!) and am often looking for ways of putting my stamp on the music, but both with the Grasshoppa dance group and Propeller I often have to make music and sounds on the spot, and not always just melodic ideas or themes. And it took me a little while to feel comfortable with the idea that some of the more "interesting" ideas were musically valid. But the more I do this the more I know I'm doing the right thing...

Triumphs in June

2008-06-05T21:38:00.002-04:00

From every angle, our shows on Tuesday and Wednesday were wonderful. The audiences (a crowded house on Tuesday, standing room only on Wednesday) were delighted, the dancing was fantastic, the new choreographers impressed everyone, and we all had a great time.

I don't know about everyone else, but this afternoon it felt odd that I wasn't headed to the NAC for another show.

You can see photos that Manon Blouin and I took on Flickr at:

Spread the News: Performance and Silent Auction

2008-06-01T22:10:00.002-04:00

Propeller Dance Performance and Silent Auction
June 3 and 4, 7:00pm to 9:00pm
NAC Fourth Stage [53 Elgin St Ottawa, ON]

Innovative and inspirational Dance Performance by members of the Propeller Dance Performing Group and Students in Propeller Dance training programs.

Tickets $20
available at the NAC Box Office and through Ticketmaster

Launch Photos from Steve Beaton

2008-06-01T22:03:00.003-04:00

Steve Beaton took some wonderful photos at the launch. I've uploaded 104 of them to Flickr. Click the photo to see them.

The Launch

2008-05-22T22:18:00.002-04:00

Receiving the Plaque from Trillium: Keith de Cruz of the Ontario Trillium Foundation presents a plaque to David (as Propeller Dance pres.) while the Honourable Madeleine Meilleur, MInister of Community and Social Services and Senator Jim "Big Jim" Munson look on.
Photo: M. Blouin

Wow! Our launch was amazing!

Here is a picture of Keith de Cruz giving us a plaque that acknowledges the support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation for Propeller Dance.

The $100,000 grant they have given us is going to allow us to build an organization that will continue to grow and will last a long time.

You can see more pictures on my Flickr account. We'll post links to others when we have them.

And for news coverage there's the Ottawa Citizen

and the Metro

Grant propels unique dance group’s growth

An Official Website

2008-05-21T17:34:00.003-04:00

Thanks to the generosity of the people at Atomic Motion, we now have an official website.

The Board and Managing Staff

2008-04-15T22:45:00.003-04:00

Aren't we an appealling bunch?

Renatta, Rob, Bob, David, Elizabeth, Alan, Shara

New Classes in March, April

2008-03-03T19:43:00.001-05:00

Register now for a spring session:

Monday Youth/Adult Class
April 14th to June 16th; 6:30-8:00PM

9-week session at Richelieu-Vanier Community Centre
300, ave des Peres Blancs, Ottawa (Vanier) ON
Instructor: Renata Soutter Musician: Mark Rehder
To register: contact Renata at (819) 773-7523
$100 for the session; subsidies are available.

Thursday Youth/Adult Class
March 20 to May 29; 7:00 to 8:30PM
[No class on April 24th]

9-week session at Nepean Creative Arts Centre
35 Stafford Road (Richmond Rd exit) in Bell's Corners
Instructor: Shara Weaver Musician: Mike Essoudry
To register: contact Shara at (613) 240-9775
$110 for the session; subsidies are available.

Saturday Children's Classes
March 29 to May 24

8-week session at Nepean Creative Arts Centre,
Children aged 3 to 6: 9:30 to 10:30AM
Children aged 7 to 11: 10:45AM to 12:00 noon
35 Stafford Road in Bell's Corners
Instructor: Shara Weaver Musician: Jason Sonier
To register: contact Shara at (613) 240-9775
$100 for the session; subsidies are available

Fees are due at the first class of the session.

No person will be turned away for financial reasons. Subsidies are available, and class fees are on a sliding scale.

Community Day

2007-12-16T15:25:00.000-05:00

We all enjoyed the delights of dance and live music.

The 3 to 6 Class:

The 7 to 11 class:

Sun, December 9, 2:00 - 3:30pm
Carleton Heights Community Centre,
1665 Apeldoorn Ave. (map)

More photos:

propellerdance: the blog

New Session: Wheels, Energy, Motion

Community Day (and AGM)

Volunteer Opportunities

First Time On Tour: Getting Ready!

Children's Program FRIEND + FAMILY DAY!

Audition Notice

Propeller Dance is going to Kingston

What Is Technique?

A Propeller New Year

Congratulations to Ashley!

Cross Over - June 16 and 17

Coverage in the Ottawa South EMC

Community Day Photos

You're invited to our Community Day

See Alan Shain in Time to Put My Socks On

Shedding Light - Photos

... and good food and fun!

Looking Outside Our Perspective

Dance Is Life

MoMo dance workshop in Calgary Alberta

Shedding Light - June 11 and 12

A Look at Imagination Station

Propeller Kids Rock! and growl and grow and . . .

In Rehearsal May 11, 2010

In Rehearsal May 6, 2010

This Sunday - Imagination Station

Broken Chords Review

Vincent Dance Gives Workshop to Propeller Dancers

New Workshop Series - WHEELS, MOTION, ENERGY

For the Love of Dance

Vote for Lift in Ottawa Xpress Best of Ottawa Poll

The 8th Annual For the Love of Dance Multi-Cultural Dance Showcase

Propeller Dance on CBC Digital

The Music Gear

After Lift

Silent Auction Items

Painting by Amanda Lloyd

Painting by Anna Coulombe

Painting by Bella Bowes

Teapot by Chandler Swain

Painting by Chris Glor-Bell

Book: Bagel's Lucky Hat by Hector Mumbly and Dave Cooper

Certificate: 1 -hour Thai Yoga Massage or Reiki

Painting

Dreamcatcher

Maternity Portrait Package

Necklace

Silver and shell necklace and earrings

Silver necklace and ear rings

$200 Certificate for any course at the Ottawa School of Speech and Drama

Polo Lessons for 4 (or Riding Lessons)

Tutu and Puzzle

Dinner at the Village Café

Silver Bracelet

$50 Certificate

4 Free Classes

6 Pendants

Quilt

Ear rings

Shell inlay jewellry box

Sleek Look Salon $75 Gift Certificate

Lift: Friday June 19, 2009 at 7:00 pm

Mark and his Drum Bike on TV this Week

View Finder - Video - Performance at Arts Court; Nov 13, 14

Winter Classes! If you breathe, you can dance!

Our First AGM

Community Day Photos

View Finder - More Photos

View Finder - the After Glow

View Finder - Performance at Arts Court; Nov 13, 14; 7:30pm

Check out Mark Rehder's Blog

Triumphs in June

Spread the News: Performance and Silent Auction

Launch Photos from Steve Beaton

The Launch

An Official Website

The Board and Managing Staff

New Classes in March, April

Community Day