Generations
2024-2025
Generations is a multifaceted dance project rooted in the transformative power of contemporary dance and music, specifically tailored for underserved populations in care facilities of Metro Vancouver.
Dancers & Musicians embark on a journey from room to room in different assisted living/retirement home facilities, engaging residents in improvisational movements tailored to their needs, encouraging creative expression, and sharing moments of joy. Simultaneously, outreach will extend to hospitals and hospices, offering artistic expression to young patients facing medical challenges and individuals in hospice care, amidst difficult circumstances. Live music accompaniment will enrich the experience, creating a multi-sensory journey for participants. These experiences, viewed as site-specific and immersive performances, include workshops when applicable.
The creative vision of Generations is deeply rooted in the belief that dance and music can transcend boundaries, uplift spirits, and foster a sense of community across generations and life stages. Inspired by the resilience and wisdom of our participants, our project seeks to honor their stories through the medium of movement and music.
Collaborators
Concept & Direction:
Rachel Helten
Artistic collaborators:
Dancers: Chelsea Goddard, Rachel Helten, Sarah Hutton, Samantha Krystal, Kevin Li, Ana Sosa
Musicians: Ben Helten, Martin Reisle
We would like to express our deepest and sincere appreciation to our funders, partners, volunteers and supporters who made this project possible.
We acknowledge that the land I live, work, and create on is the stolen territory of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
This statement reflects a commitment to contributing to a more just, loving, and equitable world as we strive to learn from past mistakes, and move forward in a spirit of care, honoring the interconnectedness of land and community during this time of climate crisis and social injustice.