History
Co-Founded by Shara Weaver, Renata Soutter and Alan Shain, Propeller
Dance is the only organization in Ontario with the sole mandate of
specializing in integrated dance, and a leader in Canada for its
innovative creations, inclusive practices and arts management.
Propeller Dance is committed to excellence -- creating, teaching,
performing and presenting integrated dance. At the core of our work is
the belief that dance is for all people, and as wide a breadth of
expression as possible is of value. If you can breathe, you can dance.
Disability is understood as a difference in human experience rather
than a limitation, something to overcome or lack of ability. We define
virtuosity as the ability to move an audience, through presence,
connection, human spirit, as well as physicality.
Since its inception in 2007, Propeller Dance’s artistry and innovation have been recognized across the country:
Co-Artistically directed by Renata Soutter and Shara Weaver, Propeller Dance reaches close to 4000 people annually and our annual productions are practically sold out each year. We have a company of seven dancers employed on part-time contract year round, an extensive dance training program for children, youth and adults, an annual tour of schools and provide outreach programs to people who would otherwise have no access to participation in the arts. Propeller Dance has been invited to present their work throughout the region and across the country, and is recognized as a leader in the field.
Propeller Dance became incorporated as a non-profit organization in May 2007 and began annual operations in September 2007, and became a registered charity in March 2009. In a short time Propeller Dance has more than tripled its original operating budget, the reach of its programs and number of student learners. It is a cherished organization fulfilling an essential niche – allowing people of all abilities to have opportunities to pursue their artistic passions.
If art is to say something about the world and human experience, Propeller Dance is a true reflection of this world. We are pioneers in our region, contributing to building a more inclusive and diverse artistic community and creating contemporary dance that is a true reflection of our shared humanity.
Since its inception in 2007, Propeller Dance’s artistry and innovation have been recognized across the country:
- Co-Artistic Directors were awarded Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medals
- Recipient of the TELUS 2012 Innovation Award, for creative and inclusive approach to dance and art-making
- Recipient of pre-award designation by ArtsVest Ontario, Business for the Arts’ matching incentive and sponsorship training program
- Twice named “Best Dance Show of the Year” by Ottawa Xpress
- Invited to present at national disability arts and integrated dance symposiums as experts in the field
Co-Artistically directed by Renata Soutter and Shara Weaver, Propeller Dance reaches close to 4000 people annually and our annual productions are practically sold out each year. We have a company of seven dancers employed on part-time contract year round, an extensive dance training program for children, youth and adults, an annual tour of schools and provide outreach programs to people who would otherwise have no access to participation in the arts. Propeller Dance has been invited to present their work throughout the region and across the country, and is recognized as a leader in the field.
Propeller Dance became incorporated as a non-profit organization in May 2007 and began annual operations in September 2007, and became a registered charity in March 2009. In a short time Propeller Dance has more than tripled its original operating budget, the reach of its programs and number of student learners. It is a cherished organization fulfilling an essential niche – allowing people of all abilities to have opportunities to pursue their artistic passions.
If art is to say something about the world and human experience, Propeller Dance is a true reflection of this world. We are pioneers in our region, contributing to building a more inclusive and diverse artistic community and creating contemporary dance that is a true reflection of our shared humanity.