Prince George’s arts scene is in for a treat as celebrated choreographer Josh Beamish returns with Proximity, a captivating performance exploring movement and connection in intimate spaces. Known locally for his innovative choreography and unique connection to Prince George, Beamish’s visit is anticipated with great excitement by both local dance enthusiasts and the broader arts community. Adding to the excitement, he’ll also be hosting two exclusive masterclasses (ages 9 – 12 and 13+), giving local dancers the rare opportunity to learn directly from a world-renowned artist.
Josh Beamish’s ties to Prince George run deep. As a young dancer growing up in Kelowna, he made annual trips here to compete in the Prince George Dance Festival, a cherished experience that helped shape his early dance career. More recently, Beamish returned to the festival, sharing his expertise as an adjudicator. This full-circle journey—from young competitor to respected mentor—embodies his long-standing commitment to fostering the arts in communities beyond major metropolitan centers.
Now an internationally recognized figure in the dance world, Beamish has built a formidable career, collaborating with some of the most prestigious ballet companies across the globe. His work has graced stages with the Royal Ballet, the National Ballet of Canada, and New York City Ballet, as well as many other prominent companies. His choreography, known for its precision, creativity, and emotional resonance, has earned him a reputation as a visionary artist able to bridge classical and contemporary dance with fresh, thought-provoking compositions.
For Proximity, Beamish brings with him an extraordinary dancer Renée Sigouin, a powerhouse performer whose journey into contemporary dance has seen her rise to impressive heights. Originally from Saskatchewan, Sigouin relocated to Vancouver in 2008 and, after graduating from the Modus Operandi contemporary dance program in 2012, has built a prolific career working with companies like Out Innerspace Dance Theatre, Company 605, and Joshua Beamish’s own MOVE: THE COMPANY. Her career took an exciting turn as she joined Kidd Pivot, the internationally acclaimed company of renowned Canadian choreographer Crystal Pite. Touring the world with Kidd Pivot, Sigouin has continued to hone her artistry, bringing a refined depth and intensity to every performance.
Proximity is known for its exploration of physical closeness and the invisible lines of connection that exist between people, capturing the ways we interact, react, and reveal our shared humanity. Audiences can expect a performance that is both intimate and expansive, pushing the boundaries of contemporary dance while exploring themes of connection and isolation.
Adding to the excitement, Beamish will host two masterclasses for local dancers, offering them an invaluable opportunity to gain insight into his unique approach to dance. The masterclasses are open to various age levels, allowing participants to learn from Beamish’s expertise and deepen their understanding of technique, movement, and performance. This chance to learn directly from an internationally acclaimed artist is an exceptional opportunity for Prince George dancers to further develop their skills, inspire creativity, and build confidence in their own dance journeys. Registration for the Masterclasses ranges from $25-$30 and can be made by visiting www.studio2880.com.
The upcoming performance and masterclasses highlight Prince George’s role as a vibrant cultural hub that attracts world-class artists. They also demonstrate the importance of festivals and arts programs, like the Prince George Dance Festival, in supporting artists throughout their careers. Beamish’s return, alongside a seasoned collaborator like Sigouin, offers audiences and aspiring dancers alike a chance to witness and participate in world-class contemporary dance.
Through Proximity and his masterclasses, Josh Beamish not only enriches our local arts landscape but also inspires the next generation of dancers, inviting them to dream big and take their own steps toward a future in the performing arts.
Tickets are $40 and can be purchased at www.KnoxCentre.ca or the Box Office at Studio 2880.
Proximity takes place on November 30th at the Prince George Playhouse, show starts at 7:30 PM.
