Dance Into Fall: Dance Events at the RCA

Get up here, let’s dance! At the RCA, we’re no stranger to hosting exciting dance events that help get our community moving. From captivating performances to hands-on workshops, there's something for everyone. This fall, we’ve got an exciting lineup of events you won’t want to miss, like the second show in our RCA Presents 2024-25 lineup, Prism by Tentacle Tribe, or our free Dance & Move sessions. There's never been a better time to get moving at the RCA!?

Starting on October 17, you can join dancing pro Rachid on a journey through Kizomba and Semba. Both are vibrant dance styles with roots in Angola, known for their smooth and lively movements. Today, Kizomba has spread globally, becoming a favorite in social dance scenes, while Semba remains a cornerstone of Angolan culture. ?

We’re excited to work alongside Rachid to bring this workshop to Kelowna. Rachid has been dancing zouk, hip-hop, dancehall, along with many others since his childhood. Raised in both Niger and Ethiopia with over 12 years ago in Montreal, he joined Afrolusodance School, perfected his method and practice of teaching, and opened his own dance school called Sem'N'Kiz Na Rua. Since then, he has had the privilege of teaching and performing internationally. He is passionate about building community, creating fun and interesting classes for his students, and maintaining a learner’s attitude— always looking to evolve as a dancer and teacher. ?

Register today for Kizomba & Semba here. Thursdays, October 17 – November 7, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Intended for adults 18+.?

On October 30, the RCA proudly presents Prism, a breathtaking dance show by Tentacle Tribe that pushes the boundaries of movement and illusion. Tentacle Tribe is a Montreal-based dance company founded by Canadian-Swedish creative alliance Emmanuelle Lê Phan and Elon H?glund, combining hip-hop, street dance, and contemporary movement. The duo's unique approach blends intricate partnering, musicality, and a variety of movement techniques. Their performances have garnered international acclaim, and we are thrilled to bring Prism to the Mary Irwin Theatre stage.?

We spoke to?Emmanuelle Lê Phan?from Tentacle Tribe about how Prism came to be.?

“Prism started awhile back during the pandemic” says Emmanuelle. “I was trying to imagine a set design that could offer interesting illusions as well as be an integral part of the choreography. Something we could dance with, climb, manipulate, transform. I remember the first prototypes of the walls being built by my partner, in my yard, since we couldn’t really rent studios. We actually did a lot of research outside during the pandemic and that really offered up incredible reflections of nature and cityscape. Eventually being in a controlled black box was optimal for the precision and sharpness of certain images.”?

“I love the evolution of Prism, it’s truly a beautiful work that we are excited to bring to British Columbia.”?

Theatre Programming Director, Andrew Stauffer, says, “Simply stated, Prism is a stunning and mesmerizing performance. Witnessing the five dancers move together is akin to watching a strange and delightful flower bloom and open. Audiences can expect to be absorbed into a world that is fantastic, mysterious, and beautiful.”?

Tickets are available here. Join us October 30 for an unforgettable contemporary dance experience. At 6:30 PM, be sure to stop by the pre-show kombucha tasting event hosted by our friends at Motherlove Kombucha! Much like the colourful, vibrant effects you’ll see in Prism, their kombucha comes in an array of colours and flavours, making them both visually appealing and delicious.?

Want 20% off tickets to Prism? Unlock a world of exclusive benefits by becoming an RCA Theatre Member for just $39! Enjoy 20% off tickets, early access to performances, priority seating, free exchanges, special promotions, and more, all while contributing to future theatre upgrades and professional arts in our city.? Become a member today.?

Our free Dance & Move community program offers a unique dance experience where you can explore movement in a relaxed, welcoming space. Featuring rotating instructors such as belly dance expert Leona Finlayson, Dance & Move is like an open studio for dance, encouraging participants to move freely to upbeat music. Whether you're new to dance or have been dancing for years, this program is a fun and inclusive way to explore movement and stay active!??

Dance & Move is each Wednesday at 1:00 PM in our Salloum?Dance Studio. Open to all ages.?

Get moving down to the RCA for each of these exciting dance opportunities! Whether you're getting in on the action or watching from your seat at the Mary Irwin Theatre, these events promise energy, creativity, and a great time for everyone.?