Celebrated dancer and choreographer Karen Kaeja arrived in Gros Morne National Park this weekend as part of her six week residency in the province.

The dance residency began with two weeks in Corner Brook where Karen worked with students at Grenfell Campus and led a small research group in workshops and an informal presentation at Grenfell Campus Art Gallery.  Karen will continue her residency in St. John’s for two weeks in December.

Last night I had the opportunity to take part in a dance workshop with Karen and her husband, Allen Kaeja, in Cow Head. I am not a dancer, nor particularly comfortable with physical expression, and entered the workshop with some anxiety. Karen and Allen’s experience with outreach and education and their love of dance was very evident and after a very short time I felt comfortable sharing in the movement with the other participants. The workshop ended with participants leading a lesson in the Old Fashioned Eight, a traditional local square dance. I left feeling relaxed and excited about movement and dance.

Karen will be holding a second workshop in Cow Head

Sunday, 19 October from 2:30-4:00pm
at the St. Mary’s Anglican Church Hall. All are welcome.

I’m looking forward to the next workshop, and excited to see some of the photos and video from the residency as it continues.

For more information about Karen Kaeja and Kaeja d’Dance company visit their website.

photo by Allen Kaeja