The FASS is very pleased to welcome, at the end of the festival, the famous Royal Winnipeg Ballet with three pieces from varied backgrounds: šɛgatəm, Odyssey and Who cares? Saturday August 1 and Sunday August 2 at 8 p.m. under the big top.
Choreographed by Cameron Sinkwə Fraser-Monroe with music by Jeremy Dutcher, šɛgatəm (pronounced shAY-ga-tum) pays tribute to the resilience and determination of the Tla’amin nation. The choreographic language combines traditional sources, contemporary dance and ballet to tell the story of a professionally exhausted leader who must learn to rely on his community.
A pioneer of contemporary ballet, Dwight Rhoden brings his innovative style and dynamic storytelling to the Royal Winnipeg Ballet with Odyssey. Recognized for his innovative work and celebrated as one of the most sought-after contemporary choreographers, Rhoden pushes boundaries by blending classical technique, modern athleticism and emotional depth.
Playful, elegant and spectacular, Who Cares? distills the essence of George Balanchine who choreographed it to the irresistible melodies of George Gershwin, including the classics The Man I Love, My One and Only and I Got Rhythm. This piece, which requires an interaction as subtle as it is deep between the performers, will be danced for the first time by the company.
The Royal Winnipeg Ballet was founded in 1939 by its founders, Gweneth Lloyd O.C. and Betty Farrally O.C. From humble beginnings, the RWB achieved many milestones, including receiving a Royal Charter from Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, and made a significant contribution to the global ballet scene. The RWB has performed in 44 countries and 595 cities around the world. It is the oldest continuously operating ballet company in North America.