Leadership & Artistic Direction
With over fifteen years of direct leadership experience, I embrace joy as the anchor of wisdom, allowing it to ground my actions in positivity, purpose, and impact.
Photo; by Marcia Provenzano
Dancers of; mixOLOGYdanceMine
Artistic Director; Jill Henis
*Photos below include mixOLOGY and Project 404 Dance Artists
Curiosity. Clarity. Purpose.
Leadership has always been at the core of my career, guiding my efforts with an emphasis on inclusivity, communication, and self-reflection. To me, leadership involves sharing knowledge while remaining open to new ideas with curiosity and care.
- In 2009, I founded mixOLOGYdanceMine, a not-for-profit contemporary dance company initially based in Saskatoon, SK, before relocating to Calgary, AB. As the Director and lead choreographer, I was responsible for rehearsal direction, artist mentorship, and the company's administrative and strategic planning. Over its six successful years, mixOLOGYdanceMine made a significant impact on the local arts community by showcasing innovative performances and fostering an inclusive environment. The company built strong relationships with local institutions including Decidedly Jazz Danceworks, TELUS Spark Science Centre, Dance Saskatchewan Inc. and artists from varied disciplines, contributing to the growth and diversity of the cultural scene.
- In 2015, I founded Project 404, an independent creative hub dedicated to nurturing grassroots and multidisciplinary ventures. Through Project 404, I have researched projects, taught, and conducted workshops in Switzerland, Holland, Germany, Canada, Hungary, and the USA. This journey has enabled me to explore alternative ways of sharing my artistic expression and challenge traditional notions of exchanging practices and performance.
- In 2009, I established The Practice, a post-secondary training initiative in Saskatoon, SK, before relocating to Calgary, AB. This initiative, which ran for nine years, aimed to elevate and support the dance community. The Practice provided consistent training opportunities led by myself and included guest teachers, both local and international. We also formed partnerships with reputable companies such as Decidedly Jazz Danceworks and Dance Saskatchewan Inc.
Photo; by Marcia Provenzano
Dancers of; mixOLOGYdanceMine
Artistic Director; Jill Henis
Creating immersive opportunities
- My leadership style is characterized by curiosity, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation.
Photo: Project 404, including Barbara England.
Guiding with clarity & Play
- I am dedicated to creating space for individuals, offering guidance with integrity, and supporting both personal and organizational growth.
Photo: Point Park University (COPA ) students. Exploring the intersections of chance and instant composition.
Site specific projects; commUNITY engagement
Cultivating an inclusive atmosphere is essential, grounded in respect and equality.
Photo: Project 404, Graycon residency. A community offering to investigate 'gaze and perception'.
Role: Lead Choreographer & Assistant Director
- By prioritizing clear communication, I aim to ensure that everyone fully understands our goals and can collaborate to bring diverse ideas to fruition.
2010 Winter Olympic Torch Ceremony in Saskatoon, Canada. *dancers of: mixOLOGYdanceMine
Collaborating in Leadership
- I am committed to a generative approach that encourages a vibrant setting where the potential of individuals, communities and the collective can be realized to its fullest.
BC Buds Arts Festival, Vancouver Canada.
Collective: Biramous
capture of Amelia Terrapin, CEO of 'Mobius Method'
My Role: Creative Consultant with Mobius Method.
Supporting the content creation and production of Mobius's signature course, "Bold Moves," in collaboration with Amelia Terrapin and Laura Yates. I facilitated the strategic development in the curation of Mobius's web content to enhance visibility and impact.