Lecture and special activity | History of dance

Montreal, a city that's always danced!

Encompassing a wide range of genres and approaches, including indigenous, traditional, social, ballroom, classical, modern, jazz, contemporary, urban, folk and many culturally diverse dances, this presentation will trace the milestones in the history of dance in Montreal. What are the major milestones in this history? Who are the key figures? What are the influences? Through a perspective illustrated by archival images and videos, you will discover the artists, genres and movements that have made Montréal a city where the art of choreography is appreciated and where dance is celebrated collectively, as an antidote to disassociation. This presentation by Josiane Fortin will provide you with a historical overview, which we hope will arouse your curiosity and give you an overview of this rich cultural heritage.

Come and stretch your legs!

After this most interesting lecture, enjoy an introductory country dance class led by the incredible Kathy Maguire, a talented choreographer who sets the dance floor alight at Spaghetti Western, the famous country bar on Plaza St-Hubert. With her direction, you will be the one to follow on the dance floor at your next holiday party!

Lecturer, Josiane Fortin

Josiane Fortin is a dance teacher, researcher and artist based in Montreal, specializing in the history of dance in Québec and the West, as well as the political and aesthetic dimensions of Montréal choreographic practices. She teaches at UQAM, where she is completing a doctorate on the history of dance, and is active as a choreographer and performer in various artistic projects. Her interests include the social functions of art, feminist studies, and traditional and contemporary dance. She currently performs historical dances with the ensemble Les Étoiles Filantes.

Choreographer, Kathy Maguire

Passionate Loretteville artist Kathy Maguire combines country line dancing and circus arts to create a unique and engaging style. Inspired by Dolly Parton and Crystal Pite, she combines popular culture with contemporary artistic thinking, generating enthusiasm for her work. After years of dedication, she has presented her work at international festivals and regularly hosts dance evenings, demonstrating her willingness to explore new creative avenues.

This event is organized as part of Members' Month.

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