2026 Recognized Artists — Dance
Emerging Professional Artists
Photo Credit: Jose Espinosa
Silvia Taliza Chavez Cordova, dance artist
Saskatoon
“Being an Indigenous Kichwa woman and a mother motivates me to build an intercultural bridge...”
Taliza Chavez is Kichwa, born in an Indigenous community in the province of Imbabura, Ecuador. She studied in a nearby city as one of the few Indigenous students and faced racism because of her traditional clothing. Growing up close to her grandparents strengthened her pride in her culture. She learned her ancestral language, stories and traditions passed down through generations. From a young age, Andean Indigenous dance inspired Taliza to tell traditional stories through movement. After arriving in Canada, Taliza founded Muyu Dance to share Andean culture and build intercultural bridges for future generations.
What fuels Taliza: “Being an Indigenous Kichwa woman and a mother motivates me to build an intercultural bridge where I can share my culture and dance, passing on the teachings of my ancestors to new generations. Andean dance is not just movement; it is history and essence told through every step.”
“Silvia began fulfilling her dream of launching Muyu, a new dance group. She performed at festivals including Tayffi, Folk Fest, SK Latam, and Nutrien Fireworks. Her Día de los Muertos event in November earned recognition from the City of Saskatoon and CBC Radio.”
– from Adrianus Molendijk’s nomination statement
Photo Credit: Surya Pushapati
Mohana Das, choreographer, educator, community arts leader
Regina
“I strive to create spaces where movement becomes a language of connection...”
Mohana Das is a dance artist, choreographer, educator and community arts leader with over 15 years of experience in performance and dance education. Rooted in Indian classical and contemporary traditions and trained under renowned Gurus and artists, she has worked on numerous dance productions and performed internationally in Singapore, India and Bangladesh. Her work has been presented at festivals including Stream Dance Festival, International Dance Festival, Bengal Classical Music Festival, Cathedral Village Arts Festival, Frost Festival, Mosaic – A Festival of Cultures, Regina Jazz Festival and Coronach Festival. Mohana is the founder of Nirvana Dance Creations.
What fuels Mohana: “Dance is where stories, cultures, and people meet. Through performance, collaboration, and teaching, I strive to create spaces where movement becomes a language of connection across communities and borders.”
“Mohana is an emerging Saskatchewan-based Indian classical and contemporary dancer and community arts leader. She bridges tradition and innovation through inclusive teaching, cross-cultural performance, and mentorship of marginalized and disabled communities, fostering cultural dialogue & excellence.”
– from Bishwapratic Saha’s nomination statement
Photo Credit: Chilijam Studio
Rawda Mabrouk, multidisciplinary visual artist, designer, dancer
Saskatoon
“Combining different art forms keeps me curious.”
Rawda Mabrouk is a Saskatoon-based Egyptian multidisciplinary artist whose practice spans dance, visual art and design. She works as a dancer, movement trainer, visual artist and designer of furniture, home accessories and interior spaces. Her work centers on trauma release, healing and embodied self-expression. Rawda transforms lived experience into movement and shared narrative, creating spaces where audiences feel seen and connected. Through dance, visual art and design, she builds bridges between disciplines and communities, positioning art as a space for reflection, dialogue and transformation.
What fuels Rawda: “What fuels me is working at the intersection of disciplines. Combining different art forms keeps me curious. Each medium strengthens the next, creating a dynamic exchange that challenges me, nourishes me, and keeps my practice alive.”
“Rawda is a focused and dedicated emerging artist with a strong work ethic. She is entering a period of tremendous creative and personal growth propelled by cross-disciplinary experimentation. Her evolving exploration of belonging, identity and transformation are timely and important.”
– from Troy Gronsdahl’s nomination statement
Photo courtesy of the artist.
Karandeep Singh, Founder and Director of Bhangra Crew Dance Academy Inc.
Regina
“Built on Discipline. Driven by Culture.”
Karandeep Singh is a 26-year-old Bhangra instructor and the founder of Bhangra Crew Regina. His journey began in Dubai and continued in Barrie, Ontario, where he taught Bhangra while completing his studies. In 2022, he brought his passion to Regina and has been teaching students ages five through to adults since. In October 2025, he expanded into his own commercial studio space, growing the academy into a thriving community. In April 2026, Bhangra Crew Regina is expanding to Saskatoon, continuing Karandeep’s mission to share culture, energy and confidence through Bhangra.
What fuels Karandeep: “Built on Discipline. Driven by Culture.”
“I recommend Karandeep, Director of Bhangra Crew Regina, for his leadership in Punjabi folk dance. He opened a full-time Bhangra academy and studio and is preserving culture and building community. Karandeep's passion and vision have significantly strengthened the cultural landscape of Regina.”
– from Meshell Singh’s nomination statement
Established Artists and Arts Leaders
Photo Credit: Shelby Fenlon
Johanna Bundon, dance artist
Regina
“I love inviting an audience into a space...”
Johanna Bundon has made robust contributions to contemporary dance in the province for over 20 years through her practice in performance, choreography and teaching. Her choreography has been presented throughout Western Canada, and she has worked across the country in galleries and artist-run centres. As a performer, Johanna engages interdisciplinary experiments in live, digital and site-specific contexts. Johanna’s commitment to new work processes and improvisational sensibility has made her a sought-after collaborator across disciplines. As a devoted movement practitioner, she is a steady contributor to daily training initiatives, professional training programs and somatic learning for performing artists across the province. www.johannabundon.com
What fuels Johanna: “I’m drawn to the generative nature of early processes, emergent ideas and the usefulness of performance. As an artist, the projects I take on have a function to fill. They itch at an idea that needs expression in the public realm. I love inviting an audience into a space that, through a performer’s training and work, becomes inhabited with images, heightens sensations and invites imagination.”
“Johanna dances with subtlety and strength. She creates from a place that is grounded and intuitive. She embodies emergent ideas and guides others towards instinctual movement with ease. Johanna brings balance and rigour to all facets of her practice and is a strong advocate for fellow dance artists.”
– from Marcus Merasty’s nomination statement
Photo Credit: Saurabh and Jom Joseph
Sumetha Geevarghese, Artistic Director of Nrityati Performing Arts
Saskatoon
“I use movement as a language of truth.”
Sumetha Geevarghese is an accomplished dancer, performer and Artistic Director, trained under Guru Kalamandalam Girija and Guru Sasi Menon. She began formal dance training at the age of three and has been dancing for over 38 years, building a practice rooted in discipline, passion and artistic excellence. She founded Nrityati Performing Arts Saskatoon in 2017 with just five students and has since grown her school to 106 dancers, including programs specifically for students with special needs. Sumetha and her students have performed at major events such as Canada Day, Tapestrama, Heritage Fest, and multicultural celebrations across Saskatchewan, Bahrain and Kerala.
What fuels Sumetha: “I use movement as a language of truth. My work lives at the intersection of art, healing, and identity. I create spaces where bodies are heard, not judged. Where stories rise through rhythm and breath, and where people remember their power through movement. I stay fluid, adapting to new rhythms, new voices, and new ways of becoming. It brings me immense joy to witness parents and students feel empowered and proud as they step into their own expression.”
“Sumetha is a great teacher of Classical Indian Dances. She teaches my kids who are special needs. She is patient with them and understands the parents’ specific needs.”
– from Priscilla Joel’s nomination statement
Photo courtesy of the artist.
Lindsay Harpham, contemporary dance artist, educator and kinesiologist
Saskatoon
“Connection between body and imagination, artistry and science...”
Lindsay Harpham is a Saskatchewan-based Contemporary dance artist, choreographer, educator, and Kinesiologist. Her work blends physicality, emotion, and imagination, informed by collaborations with Litz Dance, Red Sky Performance, Gadfly, ACE Dance Theatre and Remai Modern. She has performed nationally and internationally, including Jacob’s Pillow and with the Toronto and Vancouver Symphony Orchestras. With a background in Kinesiology, Lindsay bridges artistry and anatomy in both her creative practice and dance rehabilitation work. She co-founded wherewe collective and wherewe CONNECT, fostering emerging artists and strengthening Saskatchewan’s dance community.
What fuels Lindsay: “Connection fuels my work. Connection between body and imagination, artistry and science, and artists within a shared creative community."
“Lindsay has developed a rigorous movement practice and is a highly respected dance teacher, adjudicator and trainer. She has performed on the national and international stage, distinguishing herself as one of the province’s leading contemporary dancers.”
– from Troy Gronsdahl’s nomination statement
Photo Credit: Piotr Beszterda
Serhij Koroliuk, Artistic Director and Choreographer, Pavlychenko Folklorique Ensemble
Saskatoon
“The stage is my canvas, the dancers my brushes and movement my palette.”
Serhij Koroliuk is an artistic director, choreographer and educator devoted to advancing Ukrainian dance and culture across Canada. Through mentorship, innovative choreography, workshops and artistic leadership, he inspires excellence while honouring tradition. His work connects generations and communities, shaping meaningful artistic experiences through passion, discipline and cultural pride.
What fuels Serhij: “The stage is my canvas, the dancers my brushes and movement my palette. Together, we create art that lives in the heart.”
“Serhij Koroliuk has touched the hearts of countless dancers as a mentor and choreographer. Through his passion, talent, and love for Ukrainian culture, he inspires, teaches, and lifts every dancer he meets, leaving a lasting mark on our community and Canada’s dance scene.”
– from Valentyna Matyushenko’s nomination statement
Photo Credit: Ken Greenhorn
Jacqueline Latendress, choreographer, Artistic Director of Free Flow Dance Theatre
Saskatoon
“Dance is the fountain of youth.”
Jackie Latendresse is a Métis artist, choreographer and the founding Artistic Director of Free Flow Dance Theatre in Saskatoon. For three decades, she has created emotionally driven, socially engaged contemporary dance that prioritizes experimentation, connection, and community. Jackie is known for championing artists at all stages of their careers, activating unconventional performance spaces and building artistic programs that remove barriers to participation. Her leadership has helped shape Canada’s contemporary dance landscape, earning her recognition including YWCA Saskatoon’s Woman of Distinction and the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal.
What fuels Jackie: “Dance is the fountain of youth. Creativity is the path to happiness. Collaboration and curiosity are keys to success. I am fortunate to find joy in what I do every day, surrounded by talented, generous people who come ready to play and learn alongside me.”
“I recently spoke at an event celebrating the 30th anniversary of Jackie's modern dance company Free Flow. I talked about the challenges artists face and the courage and tenacity it takes to persevere against discouragement and rejection. Jackie's long, successful career is an inspiration to us all.”
– from Cliff Burns’ nomination statement
Photo Credit: James R. Page
Robin Poitras, dancer, Artistic Director, New Dance Horizons
Regina
“I am curious about relationships and resonance among the worlds of art, science and nature and in exploring ...”
Robin Poitras C.M. is one of Saskatchewan’s most prolific dance and performance creators. Creating dance, performance and installation works, she has been engaged in contemporary dance practice since the early 80s. Robin co-founded and serves as Artistic Director of New Dance Horizons. Robin has developed a unique interdisciplinary approach. Her work has been presented across Canada, Spain, France, Germany, Mongolia and Mexico. She is a recipient of several awards, including the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal (2022), the Order of Canada (2016), Lieutenant Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Award (2016) and the Women of Distinction Award for the Arts (2004).
What fuels Robin: "My practice is rooted in a physical world comprised of choreography, dancing and actions and acts. My performance works often involve the use of found or formed objects, texts, images, sound and/or other media. I am curious about relationships and resonance among the worlds of art, science and nature and in exploring how these worlds feed back and forth in mythical, mysterious, elusive and sometimes obvious ways."
“The calibre of Robin’s work creatively, physically and intellectually is known and respected far and wide. She continually and collaboratively works with tensions and dissolves boundaries. Additionally, her significant work with(in) community and as a mentor is something to be noted and celebrated.”
– from Diana Chabros’ nomination statement
Aspiring Youth Artists
Photo Credit: Dennis Yip Photography
Keira Schumack, acrobatic dancer
Unity
“Even when it gets hard; you only fail when you stop trying.”
Keira Schumack is a 16-year-old Canadian dancer specializing in acrobatic dance. Known for her strength, stage presence, and fearless performance quality, she trains and competes at a high level across multiple disciplines. In November 2025, Keira proudly represented Canada as the only Saskatchewan athlete selected for the Team Canada Acrobatic Dance Team, competing internationally in Italy. Her dedication, resilience and passion for dance continue to set her apart as a rising young performer with big goals for the future.
What fuels Keira: “Never give up. Even when it gets hard; you only fail when you stop trying.”
“Keira Schumack was a part of the 2025 IDO World Championships in Italy with the Canadian West Acrobatic Team. Keira flew to Vancouver for training from Saskatchewan on serval weekends to train. She was the only out of province dancer selected for the team.”
– from Courtney Smith’s nomination statement
Organizations, Festivals and Collectives
Photo courtesy of the organization.
Azerbaijani Cultural Association of Regina
Non-Profit Organization
Regina
“ ... fueled by the joy of seeing culture come alive through dance.”
The Azerbaijani Cultural Association of Regina (AzCAR), established in 2023, is a non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating and promoting Azerbaijani culture in Saskatchewan. Through children and adult dance groups, cultural events, educational workshops, and community partnerships, AzCAR fosters intercultural dialogue and enriches Regina’s multicultural arts scene. The organization collaborates with libraries, schools and community organizations to create inclusive spaces where heritage, creativity and connection thrive. By bringing authentic performances, traditional costumes and storytelling to diverse audiences, AzCAR strengthens cultural understanding and contributes to the province’s vibrant artistic community.
What fuels AzCAR: “Our work is fueled by the joy of seeing culture come alive through dance – when children, adults and audiences connect across generations and backgrounds, building understanding and belonging through the arts.”
“The Azerbaijani Cultural Association of Regina’s children and adult dance groups are emerging artists bringing Azerbaijani heritage to life through authentic performances, vibrant costumes and community engagement, enriching Saskatchewan’s multicultural arts landscape.”
– from Anar Heydar-zada’s nomination statement
Photo Credit: Karli Jessup
FadaDance Troupe
Contemporary Dance Studio
Regina
“ … gathered, crossing and binding together, we become a living web...”
FadaDance Troupe challenges the boundaries of contemporary dance on the prairies. This is achieved through a community-engagement approach to creating and presenting dance, a commitment to collaboration and an investment in the next generation of contemporary dancers. FadaDance Troupe is guided by a collective experience of dance and inspired by the ways that people of all ages, bodies, abilities and backgrounds bring their unique point of view to a dance floor. Socially-engaged at its core, they focus on the intimate relationship between dancer and audience, work that both invites and involves the viewer—breaking down barriers and conjuring excitement.
What fuels FadaDance: “We are made strong by the weave of our community. One thread alone is barely felt—but gathered, crossing and binding together, we become a living web: delicate in detail, powerful in unity, beautiful in the way we hold.”
“FadaDance celebrates and connects communities through dance. Leaders in mentorship and youth leadership, innovative performance and community-engaged programming, they create accessible intergenerational connections to dance with the diverse communities of Treaty Four and across Saskatchewan.”
– from Crystal Massier’s nomination statement
Photo Credit: Daria Morgendorffer
KSAMB Dance Company
Dance Company
Saskatoon
“ ... dance will engage the senses and the imagination and free us from disconnect and complacency ... ”
Founded in 2009, KSAMB Dance Company, of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, is co-directed by Kyle Syverson and Miki Mappin. KSAMB performs ensemble improvisation, often site-specific and durational; a type of "dance survival." It requires them to be fully present and attuned to their bodies, the environment, and each other. The physical and emotional risk-taking of KSAMB’s ensemble improvisation is grounded in attention to sensation and a deep connection with the environment and community. Kyle’s and Miki’s practice of CI teaches them the physiology, psychology and physics of human beings moving through time and space, falling and flying together.
What fuels KSAMB: “Kyle and Miki practice for a joyful, sustainable life. Their vision is that dance will engage the senses and the imagination and free us from disconnect and complacency—creating a more present, loving and resilient society. They value authenticity, sustainability and accessibility. To conceive of a future after capitalism is to have hope. KSAMB strives to make their dance events accessible in as many ways as imagination and funds permit. KSAMB’s art is activist, and they bring their techniques to their activism.”
“KSAMB is committed to advancing contemporary dance in our community. Their practice brings collaboration and scored improvisation into contact with urgent issues of the day to model new modes of social and artistic engagement.”
– from Troy Gronsdahl’s nomination statement
Photo Credit: Chris Randall
New Dance Horizons
Contemporary Dance Organization
Regina
“ … New Dance Horizons plays a distinctive and integral role in developing and strengthening the dance community ... ”
New Dance Horizons (NDH) is a Regina-based not-for-profit organization that has presented locally and internationally acclaimed dance shows, produced original works and organized activities that engage both the dance community and the general public since 1986. NDH plays a distinctive and integral role in developing and strengthening Saskatchewan's dance community. NDH offers performance presentations, courses, workshops and lectures with guest artists and community events. Thanks to the bold artistic vision and community engagement of acclaimed Canadian artist and co-founder Robin Poitras, NDH is nationally recognized as a champion of creative dance. NDH offers adventurous and ever-changing dance encounters for everyone.
What fuels NDH: “New Dance Horizons is dedicated to the ever-changing expressions of contemporary dance. As Saskatchewan’s longest-standing professional contemporary dance organization focusing on the creation, production and presentation of contemporary dance, New Dance Horizons plays a distinctive and integral role in developing and strengthening the dance community within Regina and the province.”
“For 40 years, NDH has invited audiences into unforgettable encounters with dance as a moving art form. A vital tether linking Saskatchewan to the national dance scene, NDH is a hotbed of local creativity. NDH has shaped contemporary dance through its ongoing training and performance offerings.”
– from Johanna Bundon’s nomination statement
Photo courtesy of the organization.
SICA Women Dance Group
Cultural Collective
Saskatoon
“When SICA women dance, we do not just move our feet, we move our community forward.”
The SICA Women Dance Group is a proud cultural collective representing the rich heritage of Southeast Nigeria. Rooted in Igbo tradition, we promote and preserve our culture through vibrant dance, rhythmic music, and the beauty of the Igbo language. Our performances celebrate identity, unity and the strength of Igbo women across generations. Through every drumbeat and graceful step, we honour our ancestry while inspiring pride and cultural awareness in our community and beyond.
What fuels SICA Women Dance Group: “When SICA women dance, we do not just move our feet, we move our community forward.”
“They are a vibrant cultural dance group that showcase Igbo culture and dance all over Saskatchewan.”
– from Fiyinfoluwa Obayan’s nomination statement