Ballets Jazz Montréal’s “Dance Me”: A Choreographic Ode to Leonard Cohen’s Legacy
Les Ballets Jazz Montréal’s *Dance Me*, a groundbreaking production set to the music of Canadian icon Leonard Cohen, exemplifies the profound synergy between dance, and songwriting. Conceived by former artistic director Louis Robitaille, the piece premiered in 2017 as part of Montreal’s 375th-anniversary celebrations, long before Cohen’s passing in 2016 at age 82. Though the singer-songwriter did not live to see the full realization of the project, his artistic vision permeates the performance, which has since toured globally and been featured on PBS.
Collaborative Artistry and Emotional Depth
The production brings together three internationally acclaimed choreographers—Andonis Foniadakis, Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, and Ihsan Rustem—each offering a distinct interpretation of Cohen’s songs. The company’s 50-year history, marked by innovation and technical prowess, ensures a cohesive yet multifaceted tribute. Alexandra Damiani, who became artistic director in 2021 after a decade with the company, emphasizes the challenge of translating Cohen’s “brutally honest, emotional content” into movement. “When it’s done well, it’s magic,” she says, noting that the dance allows audiences to “hear the song differently.”
Cohen’s approval of the project, including the inclusion of over a dozen of his works, underscores the mutual respect between the artist and the choreographers. The show’s 2017 debut, however, was overshadowed by the composer’s death, which occurred just a year prior. Despite this, the production has continued to evolve, reflecting the enduring relevance of Cohen’s music in contemporary performance art.
Global Impact and Critical Acclaim
Since its premiere, *Dance Me* has traversed three continents, cementing its status as a cross-cultural phenomenon. The PBS documentary on the production highlights its ability to bridge genres, blending Cohen’s poetic lyricism with the physicality of jazz-infused dance. The show’s 2024 presentation in San Diego, organized by the La Jolla Music Society, marked its continued reach, demonstrating the timeless appeal of Cohen’s work through a new lens.
As Ballets Jazz Montréal celebrates its 50th anniversary, *Dance Me* remains a testament to the power of collaboration. By reimagining Cohen’s music through movement, the production not only honors his legacy but also invites audiences to experience his artistry in an entirely new dimension.
Worth a look