Vision

Dance//Novella researches and develops groundbreaking dance theater productions to push the boundaries of how it can exist within a contemporary society. We aim to creatively reflect, reimagine and uplift the human experience by embracing theatre as a tool that can illuminate the multifarious values of humanity. We strive to craft bold narratives and concepts that amplify and empower both the audience and the performers. Our primary emphasis lies in fostering collaboration, not just within the realm of dance, but also through cross-disciplinary and cross-cultural partnerships. We are committed to making art that reflects our current social state while emboldening how we can move dance further from the negative effects of colonialism. D//N is dedicated to the continuous education of ourselves, our collaborators, and our audiences as we strive to reimagine dance theatre as an art form that is accessible and inspiring for everyone.

©iiiiportraits

History

In January 2019, Dance//Novella was founded by Brandon Lee Alley and Racheal Prince. Their journey began with the debut of "Imprinted" at 12 Minutes Max Vancouver in September 2019. Subsequently, Dance//Novella embarked on a creative path, producing original works for notable institutions such as Alberta Ballet School, Lamondance Company and Arts Umbrella PrEp. These early collaborations were pivotal in shaping the company's artistic growth.

In 2020, D//N received a commission from Men In Dance to craft a compelling 10-minute film, which received acclaim during its premiere. This success led to their invitation back to the festival for the 2021/22 season. Early in 2021, they developed "This and That" for Ballet BC's inaugural event, "Take form."

During the 2021/22 season, Dance//Novella achieved the honor of being an Artist in Residence with Ballet BC, Dance Victoria, and The Shadbolt Centre for the Arts. These residencies provided fertile ground for the research and development of their work, "When The Walls Come Down," which subsequently graced prominent stages such as the Vancouver International Dance Festival, Sound Off, and the Chutzpah! Festival.

In 2021, Dance//Novella relocated to North Vancouver, BC. In 2019, 2021 and 2022 we presented our choreography at the BlueShore Financial Centre for the Performing Arts as resident choreographers for Lamondance. In 2023 we developed a partnership with The Polygon Gallery and offered 2 weeks of open rehearsal and 3 free performances to the public. During that same year, we self-presented our two new works, “STANCE” and “The Sound of Disappearing” with the help of the City of Vancouver at the Annex theatre in Vancouver.

Recently, with the continued support of the Polygon Gallery and The Dance Centre BC, D//N created a new work titled “Night is the Mother” during their second residency in the Seaspan Pavilion. Crafted collaboratively with six professional and five emerging dance artists, the work delves into the abstract and interpersonal dimensions of dreaming, challenging performers to embody contrasting worlds—one bleak and dystopian, the other fantastical and nostalgic—while themes of survival, fear, and community intertwine. This immersive experience prompts both audience and performer to reflect on their intricate relationships with self and society. The piece premiered to sold out shows at both the Polygon Gallery and The Dance Centre BC in April 2024.

As directors of Dance//Novella, Brandon and Racheal believe in the transformative power of dance and art to effect change, offering fresh perspectives and viewpoints to society. While not always easy to digest, art and dance can permeate and enrich communities. Dance//Novella strives to connect with diverse audiences and create unforgettable experiences for all.