Before we announce the winners of the 2017 MyEntWorld Critics’ Pick Awards, we’re proud to present our annual Nominee Interview Series.
Adjusted Surrender was the penultimate performance in ProArteDanza’s 2017 season, a masterful offering from choreographer Kevin O’Day, who trained at the Joffrey School of Ballet and has subsequently produced over 60 ballets, many for highly acclaimed international companies. Nominated for Outstanding Contemporary Dance/Cirque Production, Adjusted Surrender invoked both sorrow and comfortable companionship through intimate and emotional movement.
What is your earliest memory of dance?
My earliest memory of dance is when I danced on the family dining table pretending to be Micheal Jackson.
What are the main influences or inspirations for your work?
The natural laws of nature, my entire biological experience until now and every person in the field of dance that I’ve had the opportunity and gift to have worked with.
What are your hobbies outside of dance?
I love food, cooking and a sharing the amazing gifts of Mother Nature with my love ones.
Which character do you relate more to in Adjusted Surrender, and why?
Actually both characters. I’ve experienced life from both of these perspectives.
Are there any possible alternate endings to Adjusted Surrender?
Yes, actually the one that was presented. The duet in reality never has an apparent end.
What are you working on now/next?
At this very moment I’m working with Visceral Dance Chicago on a new piece. In August I will begin my role as artist in residence at the Mainfrankentheater in Würzburg, Germany. I will be working alongside my partner Canadian choreographer, artistic director Dominique Dumais.
Is there anything else you would like to say or share with us?
It was an enormous pleasure and honor to have had the opportunity to collaborate with Johanna Bergfelt and Robert Glumbek. Also, the ongoing artistic exchange that I’ve had with Roberto Campanella and ProArteDanza is and has always been a great highlight for me. I look forward to working in Canada again. I just love Toronto.