VIRGINIE BRUNELLE
Biography
Virginie Brunelle, who has a degree in Dance Creation from the Université du Québec à Montréal, launched her career in a bold and convincing fashion with Les cuisses à l’écart du cœur,a performance that won her numerous awards and invitations to perform.
Virginie then took part in Mixmusik, a collective production with artists from Quebec and Belgium. The show was presented as part of Québec City’s 400th anniversary celebrations and in Brussels.
This was followed by Foutrement, a 10-minute duo that toured five European cities alongside other emerging foreign choreographers.
Finally, in 2009, she created Gastro affective, a 25-minute piece for six dancers. This work was presented as the opening act to Over My Dead Body, a production choreographed by Dave St-Pierre.
Artistic Approach
Virginie bases her creations on her own experiences, as well as on stories from those close to her. She absorbs all the emotions related to these experiences and then converts them into static images or “snapshots” in her journal. These symbolic images are put into motion during rehearsals, and the dancers are invited to launch into improvisations that she directs. Once these emotions (anguish, joy, grief and questioning) have taken over the dancers’ bodies, the feelings come to life.
Virginie looks for dancers who are willing to take a different approach to their technique and to their role as dancers. She encourages them to add their own interpretation and symbolism to the theme.
As a result, the image takes on multiple layers and multiple meanings. Through trial and error, creation is born, become connected, and takes form.
Comments of the Canadian Jury
“Technically impeccable, outstanding control (…) unique body language with a great deal of strength.”
“A universal theme handled with humour and humanity. Excellent use of the stage space.”
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