Winnipeg’s Dance Legacy Celebrated with Hall of Fame Induction

The vibrant world of dance in Winnipeg received a significant honor as the first Dance Collection Danse Hall of Fame ceremony was held outside Toronto. This event, which took place on March 10, 2024, recognized the contributions of notable figures in Canadian dance, particularly from the Prairies.

One of the highlights of the evening was the induction of Arnold Spohr, the former artistic director of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet (RWB), celebrated for establishing Canada’s ballet presence on the global stage. Catherine Wreford, a prominent dancer and actress, noted Spohr’s pivotal role in shaping Canadian dance, calling him “the father of ballet in Canada.” Wreford, who was trained by Spohr, emphasized the personal significance of inducting her mentor into the hall of fame.

This year’s ceremony also celebrated the legacy of other dance pioneers, including Rachel Browne, founder of Winnipeg’s Contemporary Dancers and recognized as the matriarch of modern dance in Canada. Browne’s influence has been profound, as her establishment of Canada’s oldest contemporary dance company in 1964 marked a turning point in the nation’s dance history.

Wreford commented on the diverse list of inductees, which reflects the evolution of Canadian dance from classical to modern. She explained, “Rachel Browne came from a ballet world and sort of changed it into contemporary when it didn’t really exist.” This shift illustrates the ongoing transformation within the dance sector, embracing multicultural and post-colonial narratives.

The ceremony was attended by notable figures, including RWB artistic director Christopher Stowell and prima ballerina Evelyn Hart. Wreford, alongside these esteemed colleagues, presented the awards to this year’s inductees, which also included Brian Webb, Ryan Richard, Odette Heyn, Faye Thomson, and Ashley (Colours) Perez.

Among the living inductees, Ryan Richard stands out as a two-spirit drag queen and accomplished jigger, representing the rich cultural tapestry of the region. The ceremony featured performances that highlighted the Prairies’ impressive jigging tradition, further celebrating the area’s artistic heritage. Wreford expressed her enthusiasm, remarking, “The performances are going to be amazing. It’s all going to be a ton of fun.”

Held at the Metropolitan Entertainment Centre in Winnipeg, the event showcased the city’s vibrant arts scene, reiterating its importance in the national landscape. Tickets for the ceremony were priced at $200, with attendees eager to support the recognition of dance’s rich history in Canada.

As the evening concluded, it was clear that this induction ceremony not only honored the past but also inspired future generations of dancers. Wreford’s optimistic outlook encapsulated the spirit of the event: “It’s a room full of joyful people.”

The Dance Collection Danse Hall of Fame aims to preserve and celebrate the history of dance in Canada, ensuring that the contributions of artists like Spohr and Browne are remembered and appreciated for years to come.