Steppin’ Time shadows show celebrates diversity

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This article was published 25/04/2015 (4015 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Following their original “In the Shadows,” Steppin’ Time Dance Studio returns to the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium with “One World One Shadow” — a story of the strength of diversity told entirely through movement and dance done in shadow.

While most people will be familiar with Monique Roy-Keller’s work as a teacher/director of Steppin’ Time Dance Studio or with her choreography for musicals including “Tarzan,” “Shrek,” “Annie” and “A Christmas Carol,” Roy-Keller has enjoyed the challenge of stretching herself in a new medium of dance.

In 2012, Steppin’ Time was approached by the Brandon Chamber of Commerce to create a “shadows show” as entertainment for a gala. The choreographers and dancers enjoyed the experience so much that they wanted to create an entire show and the result was their first shadows show, “In the Shadows.”

This year’s production, “One World One Shadow” — which will be performed next Thursday and Friday — explores the theme of multiculturalism and diversity.

Kristen Yuel, the assistant director of the studio and a choreographer in the show, has enjoyed the opportunity to create new stories for this production.

“Dancing in shadow offers the audience an experience like no other,” she said. “Meaningful messages and stories are portrayed and even though there is a screen separating the audience from all of us backstage, you can feel the impact.”

With cutting-edge audio and visual technology provided by Ben Marks, “One World One Shadow” celebrates our multicultural world through movement entirely in shadow and imagery.

More than 70 dancers, ranging in age from eight to 19, will perform in the show.

“It’s been a great experience to create dances that represent other cultures/diversity, and throughout our involvement, we have gained knowledge about other cultures,” Vincent Massey Grade 12 student Shannon Wiebe said.

“There is such a positive feeling when we are done the performance and have shared such an important message.”

Karen Chrest’s son Brett is involved in the show.

“To perform in such a unique and creative production is a real privilege for these young dancers,” she said. “I think they realize that they are part of something very special — not only are they able to showcase their talent, but are creating stories with an important message.”

Audiences are about to see something really magical on that stage, Chrest said.

“We have been a Steppin’ Time family for many years, and the creative vision that comes out of this studio never ceases to amaze me!”

Roy-Keller has found returning to the creative process of a shadow show fulfilling and inspirational.

“There is anonymity about the show; the message is clearly shown without seeing the performer’s faces,” she said. “The space that the dancers create in is so much smaller than a traditional stage, yet the outcome and experience for the audience is extremely impactful.

“The feedback we received the most after the first shadow show was how much the story impacted the audience. There were little children in attendance and many grandparents — they loved the show.”

A shadow production is very different from a traditional dance or ballet performance. Space, shapes and how the light shines through formations are so important to tell the story.

“As a shadow performer, you can’t rely on facial expression. Body language and space are such an important aspect,” Roy-Keller said.

The dancers create images using only their bodies and movement, from spelling words to creating an elephant and even building landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower. The images they create move, entertain and inspire the audience.

“We knew when the curtain closed in 2013 that we’d be back again,” Roy-Keller said. “It was an incredibly moving experience.We can’t wait for opening night on April 30!”

Performances of “One World, One Shadow” take place at the WMCA next Thursday and Friday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the WMCA box office, 204-728-9510, or online at wmca.ca.

Visit steppintime.com for more information.

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