FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 8, 2023 

Ballet Jörgen will present three World Premieres by Canadian Choreographers, Katlyn Addison, Jose Angel Carret, and Mafa Makhubalo, May 25 – 27 at the Young Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto.  

Toronto born Katlyn Addison, a principal dancer with Ballet West, is creating her first work for the company, There Were TWO, set to an original score by Jonathan Sanford for 10 dancers. Jose Angel Carret, founder and Artistic Director of Danza Corpus Cuba – Canada, has created several works for Jörgen Dance. His latest creation is Dream Talker for six dancers. Mafa Makhubalo, Artistic Director of Mafa Dance Village is returning to create his second piece, Dialogue, for Ballet Jörgen, this time a major work for 18 dancers. Costume design for There Were TWO is by David Heuvel, costume design for Dream Talker is by Aaliyah Sundar and costume design for Mr. Makhubalo’s new creation is by Stacey-Ann Vassell.  

“I was thrilled to discover how talented the company is, with each dancer bringing in their unique quality into the work. This rehearsal process was extremely enjoyable and helped me step out of my comfort zone to create something unlike what I’ve ever created before.”- Choreographer Katlyn Addison  

“I had an amazing experience creating this piece.” - Choreographer Jose Angel Carret

“Having the opportunity to work with the company has allowed me the time and safe space to share and learn to allow ourselves to think beyond 5,6,7,8 concepts of movements.” - Choreographer Mafa Makhubalo

Canada is home to a diverse range of talented choreographers, many of whom are historically underrepresented in ballet and lack opportunities to create and exhibit their work in a professional setting. Providing opportunities for choreographers from a range of backgrounds and identities ensures all voices are heard and develops artists that are truly representative of all Canadians. To date, the Company has commissioned 229 new works by 94 choreographers. Since its founding, Ballet Jörgen has been committed to showcasing the works of diverse choreographers, and over 20% (47) of the Company’s new commissions have been from BIPOC artists.

May 25-27, 2023

Marilyn and Charles Baillie Theatre at  the Young Centre for the Performing Arts

50 Tank House Lane – Distillery Historic District - Toronto

https://www.jorgendance.ca/repertoire/an-evening-of-black-canadian-choreographers/