The SURGE Company provides a challenging dance experience that inspires excellence while providing a focus on training, self-exploration, and choreographic endeavors in a dance company setting. Each dancer is provided with direction and guidance from the Artistic Directors, instructors, choreographers, and rehearsal directors. The program is designed for hard working, self-motivated young artists, who are interested in dance as a creative art form. Dancers in the program attend 9 hours per week of contemporary dance training and rehearsals, with special classes in creative process, repertory, and other dance forms such as Jazz and African.

Performance and informal showings provide opportunities to work alongside some of Calgary's leading dance professionals, which help to round out a young performer’s training. Selected SURGE dancers may participate in the Leadership Program.

The leadership program provides a comprehensive overview of the processes involved in creating, developing and producing contemporary dance work. The program educates and supports dancers who are interested in learning skills and techniques that go beyond the role of “company dancer”. Applicants who are selected for this program will be required to take on some of the responsibilities inherent in creation, development and production.

The leadership program is organic and flexible – allowing the program to be specifically tailored to the needs of both the company and the selected individuals. The focus could be on rehearsal direction, choreographic development, technical training or teaching, company management or any combination of those options.

The initial selection of artists and the overall management of the leadership program is the auspices of Artistic Director, Wojciech Mochniej. In consultation with Melissa Monteros, individuals will be invited to participate and specific, individualized training plans will be formulated. At this time, Leslie Chandler is leading the program, with Tanis Baer providing additional support. Together, they make-up the heart of the leadership program, but all teachers, choreographers and company personnel participate in the program.

The program has the ability to support a number of trainees. Currently, two emerging choreographers who are participating will continue to focus on their choreographic development and on the challenges involved in re-mounting a work on the Surge company. In addition, one emerging artist will be assuming the role of rehearsal assistant for the work of both companies. information@ekodance.com

Guest choreographers- Fall term
Kelly McCann
Hilary Maxwell
Caileen Bennett (Choreographic Mentorship Program)

Instructors
Wojciech Mochniej, Artistic Director
Kelly McCann
Maya Lewandowsky
Hilary Maxwell

Contacts
Artistic Director | Wojciech Mochniej mochniej@wmdance.com

Leadership Program | Leslie Chandler leadership@wmdance.com

SURGE Coordinator | Kelly McCann surge@wmdance.com

Office: Tanis Baer or Amanda Bonnell information@wmdance.com