Around the world in 11 dances

In the last few weeks, St. Albert tapper Paige Tirs has developed a series of bruises on her feet from bamboo poles.

As part of the Vinok Worldance troupe, she’s learning the Filipino dance Tinikling. It’s a fast-moving complicated dance where dancers need to evade bamboo poles aiming for their feet.

“It’s like Double Dutch, with someone trying to catch your feet with bamboo poles,” explains Vinok artistic director Leanne Koziak.

That’s little consolation to Tirs who notes that rhythmic timing is everything.

“If you’re not in time to the sticks, you get your foot chopped off. It’s been an interesting ride learning to overcome the fear.”

In her third season with the professional company, Tirs has dedicated her skills and talent to rehearsing for Vinok’s annual extravaganza, Christmas Around the World from Nov. 13 to 17 at Chateau Louis Conference Centre.

The two-hour plus variety show is literally a feast of culture combining professional dancing with a buffet meal.

Koziak has scheduled 11 multi-cultural choreographies that range from Mexico, Germany, Finland and Chile to Armenia, the Ukraine and a Hasidic dance to celebrate Hanukkah.

The crown jewel is a specially commissioned Turkish Black Sea choreography created by Ahmet LĂĽleci. The nippy footwork imitates fish and waves in the sea. When dancers shake they look like schools of fish swimming in the sea.

“It’s very dynamic and very quick with a lot of energy,” Koziak comments.

Tirs adds, “It’s very powerful because of the music. It’s very upbeat with a lot of high-energy kicking and dancing.”

Taking advantage of the company’s individual specialties, Koziak is giving soloist Ines Castaneda an opportunity to show off her plumage in an Afro-Peruvian dance. She is accompanied by a cajĂłn, a six-sided box-shaped percussion instrument played by slapping the faces.

This year’s production also features flamenco guitarist Harry Grimwood-Knight. The six-year old protĂ©gĂ©, son of guitar teacher Peter Knight, will play a sensual rumba.

“Even though he’s only six, he plays like an adult and he’s been invited to a number of flamenco festivals. He’s played for three years and practices about 90 minutes every day.”

Returning is master of ceremonies Timothy Anderson who has hosted the event since 2001.

“He’s such an engaging person. He’s fun and connects with the audience. He’s a talented singer, actor and writer and our audiences really enjoy him.”

While Tirs has only danced this gig for three years, she notes the mood generates a childlike anticipation.

“It’s a great event ‘cause it allows you to get into the Christmas spirit. It’s very family oriented and it will leave you excited for Christmas or Hanukkah – whatever your tradition is.”