Winnipeg’s Contemporary Dancers closes out season 60 with double bill

Winnipeg’s Contemporary Dancers is closing out its 60th season with a double bill of original works: “Tomato Blues” and “by means of each other,” two performances showcasing the different ways humans connect with each other through dance. 

Vancouver locals Sarah Hutton and Aiden Cass are the creators, choreographers and performers of “by means of each other” and they say the piece was inspired by their real-life partnership. 

“We get to see parts of each other obviously that you wouldn’t really experience in everyday life,” said Cass. “It strips back a layer of politeness, maybe at the expense of our working relationship, but the thing that we get at is more authentic to ourselves.”

Hutton hopes the audience experiences the connection as well. 

“We’re really hoping every moment has an opportunity to see something of themselves inside of the work,” she said. 

Choreographer and performer of “Tomato Blues,” Cartegena Colombia’s Lina Cruz, embodies a different kind of connection with her solo performance. 

“What happens with power trips within your family, your friends, at work, in society, in politics for sure,” she said. 

For those working backstage, the strong performances under the spotlight will help ensure it continues to shine. 

“We want WCD to be here and relevant 60 years from now,” said Jolene Bailey, the organization’s artistic director. 

Bailey says the 60th season has paid homage to its past, but is also looking forward and making way for something new.

“Often the world says artists are sort of predictors of the future,” she said. “I think that’s a good philosophy.” 

“Tomato Blues” and “by means of each other,” are showing at the Rachel Brown Theatre until April 27 and general tickets can be purchased for $34 with senior, student, artist and low-income tickets available for $26.