Modus Operandi

May 23, 2012

Over the last two years, I have had the privilege to attend and photograph Modus Operandi's year-end show and have come away each time excited about the talented commitment these Vancouver young dancers for their art.  To me, the emerging dance professionals put on a show every year on par with professional dance theater.  I'm blown away by the pieces and dance films choreographed by founders Tiffany Tregarthen and David Raymond with the dancers.  The work brings the audience into the mind, body and soul of everyday perception on how we see each other individually, relationships with each other and as part of a community. Modus Operandi dancers are already working professionally in various projects with choreographers and established dance artists in the community as well as choreographing and dancing to their own work.  

This year I feel honored that they used one of my photos from last year for their promotional poster.  The image itself to me speaks volumes on how we carry each other and burdens through some unsettling times.  I am an avid fan and would love to continue following them and see what next year's talent show will produce.  I especially loved all the dance films and the ending piece to this year's performance with accompanying music "You always hurt the one you love".  Many of us struggle with harder times with art cut backs and the prevailing demographics that older generation is going to need the younger to support them.  I hope these young professionals will find satisfying work in their careers that will fulfill their passion for their art to perform for an audience that will enhance growth and further inspire the arts community on how much the arts are a central part to community development.  The future of dance could be bright given continued support, development and growth for young emerging dance professionals and the people who develop the arts for future generations in community involvement.