Untellable’s Artist in Residence 2024: Keely Whitelaw

Untellable Movement Theatre’s Residency Program provides space, mentorship, and artist fees to movement artists.

Artist Residency 2024 Keely Whitelaw

Keely is an aerialist who took a back route into artistic movement through a life of sport. To make sense of the untellable meaning she finds above the ground, she is engaged in doctoral research of kinesthetic consciousness to find pockets of expression in technically restrained movement.

During the residency, Keely worked to translate her aerial and climbing sensibilities to more horizontal and site-specific planes. She also worked with various film techniques hoping to come closer to touching what it is to move with this raucous coast.

Mayflies Performance Series 2024

Keely Whitelaw:

Residency Reflections

Grounding

One of the underlying goals of this residency was to make myself more comfortable on the ground, without an apparatus to hide on top of. What is it to bring my sedimented movement patterns to the ground, to find new edges of possibility and expression in them when their anchorage points were flipped? Teasing this apart gave me some workable prompts for movement, but also made me aware of my need for better musical understanding. I wanted to develop a better understanding of overarching musical structures, so that the music could become a different sort of apparatus to move with rather than something I was reacting to at each moment. I wanted to learn how to predict when sections are ending, and shift the quality of movement with that, rather than just looking for individual moments to accent. This is a quality I really admire in Hilary, which is why I chose to work so closely with her on this. We did a lot of what I’m sure is very basic dance work, which focussed more on rhythm of moving rather than particular choreographed steps, working with entire songs to really get a feel for the structuring movement of the tune. I tend to get wrapped up in details but also let songs run into one another, so I lose track of when I am. In my aerial training, I am always attending to the micro rhythms and coordinations that allow tricks to happen, and making sure that each movement is allowing me to remain safe and supported. It’s easy to focus on these technicalities and forget to bring attention to the underlying rhythms and flows of movement and movement with music, but this ultimately makes it difficult to suss out what it means to move more authentically in the air. 

Mayflies Performance Series 2024

Embracing Vulnerability

I was lucky to have an opportunity in the middle of this residency to perform for the Untellable Mayflies Commissariat House Series, where Greg Bruce and I presented Ostinato (which is semi-improvised aerial hoop and solo saxophone with electronics). Watching the footage from our previous performance, all I could see was how much our sections didn’t line up. Sure, there was a relation between the movement and music in the ornamentation and rhythms of individual movements, but I would shift into a new sequence with no relation to his musical sections. This became the focus of our work together this summer, and the work I did with Hilary was integral in how I communicated my needs with Greg and learned new methods to listen and count with the small degree of attention left over from actually doing the aerial of it all. 

I also really wanted it to feel like a more cohesive set, so that not only was each piece more musical on my part, but that there was a more tangible flow between pieces and that I remained connected to the music even when I wasn’t on the apparatus. I made myself do the *very scary thing* of walking a lap around my rig before coming into contact with the hoop. I would have felt much too exposed to do this ground introduction were it not for the work I had been doing in Lynn’s studio. I wouldn’t call it dance, but it was certainly intentional movement that served to delineate the space I was about to try to fill. This is what I take Untellable’s movement theater to mean. I’ve always struggled with the language of storytelling and expression, because it always seems to entail a particular narrative, as if that movement was a translation of something that could just as easily be put in words. But of course, I do what I do because it can’t be put into words. So this walking introduction gave me the opportunity to set the stage: introduce the space, my relation to Greg and his music, to my apparatus and the apparatus that holds it up (lest that tall rig becomes an elephant in the room). 

But likely the most touching moment of the whole performance came at the very end of the second duet after a fast spinning section. I lay down on the ground and allowed my breath to return to a more natural state. This is not something that can be controlled by will alone, anyone that has run a mere 20 meters to catch up with someone knows this. It needs time. But as a performing mover, there is a pressure to appear perfectly in control at all times, which of course masks the essential physicality of this form of expression. So this became a moment to allow the humanness to override the performativity. Only once my breath stabilized did I allow myself to move any other part of my body. And even then, only my hand. Was it a dance? Or was it just wiggling out the stiffness after such a strenuous one armed section? Are these different? This was the moment that every single experienced mover in the audience commented on, so it was certainly something. 

Mayflies Performance Series 2024

Recognizing a Shift

It was Lynn’s comment that made me realize that all the work on repertoire and timing wasn’t the only shift. Sure, I had new ways to think about working with the music, setting the stage, letting more of my whole self appear on stage. But these were all skills. She commented on my quality of movement throughout all of it, which can only arise from skills in motion. To paraphrase: instead of moving from my extremities, I was moving from my center, which made it appear much more raw and primal. This shift was not made apparent because I better aligned my sections with the music, or because my technique was more refined, or because I allowed myself to simply walk and breathe. It came from all of the work of moving simply with music, of paying attention to where movement came from, how I shifted my weight and from trusting that shifting center so that my extremities could follow more supply. This was possible because I chose to use material that was relatively simple, to leave out the intricate sequences I usually perform in lieu of movements that highlighted the curvatures made possible by the spin itself. Which, isn’t so different from setting the state by walking, by allowing my breath to be the focal point, insofar as the performance was mostly creating spins and letting myself be carried along by them. Which was exactly how Hilary and I talked about choreographing ground sequences, to decide where to move next by exaggerating weight shifts and letting myself be dragged along by them. And, is exactly the feeling I’ve said is most dear to me in aerial for many moons! Yet, I was only able to allow it to shine through as the central theme with this dedicated time in the studio, moving for the sake of moving.

Untellable Movement Theatre: Artist Residency Program

Alex Fehr, 2022 Artist in Residence 

Untellable Movement Theatre: Artist Residency Program

Untellable Movement Theatre is proud to offer a residency program dedicated exclusively to movement artists. Our Artist Residency Program, launched in 2022 has hosted three artists in residence Alex Fehr, Kai Bryan, and Keely Whitelaw.

The Evolution of Our Residency Program

The transition to a more comprehensive Artist Residency Program was a response to the feedback we received from our community of artists. The Starting Point Mentorship Program served as a foundational stepping stone for emerging artists, providing valuable guidance and mentorship. However, as we listened to the voices of our community, it became clear that artists needed more—specifically, a space to explore, experiment, and grow without the immediate pressure of producing a final product.

This shift allowed us to prioritize the process over the product, giving artists the freedom to dive deeply into their creative practice. Untellable Movement Theatre’s Artist Residency Program now offers a unique opportunity for movement artists to engage in an open-ended exploration of their craft, with access to studio space, mentorship, and the resources needed to fully immerse themselves in their work.

What We Offer

Studio Space: Residents have access to a professional studio where they can freely develop and refine their artistic vision. This space is not just a place to work—it's a sanctuary for creativity, providing the time and environment necessary for deep artistic exploration.

Artist and Collaborator Fees: In addition to a residency fee we provide $1,000 for artistic support, which can be used to collaborate with additional dancers, artistic collaborators, mentors, or outside experts.

Mentorship: The program includes personalized guidance from experienced mentors who are passionate about supporting your creative journey. Our mentors are here to help you navigate challenges, offer insights, and encourage you to push the boundaries of your practice.

Technical and Administrative Support: We provide the resources needed to manage and realize your project, allowing you to focus on your creative process. Whether it’s technical assistance or administrative help, our team is dedicated to supporting your success.

Our Mandate

Untellable’s Residency Program is committed to:

• Accessible Dance: Supporting projects that make dance and movement theatre accessible to a diverse range of audiences.

• Broad Appeal: Encouraging works that resonate with a wide spectrum of viewers, from seasoned dance enthusiasts to those new to the art form.

• Site-Specific Performances: Promoting performances in unconventional spaces, challenging traditional notions of where dance can take place.

• Digital Dance: Exploring the intersection of movement and digital media, pushing the boundaries of how dance is experienced.

• Community Connection: Fostering deep engagement with the community through outreach and collaborative activities.

The Impact of Our Residency

Kai Bryan, Artist in Residence 2023

photo credit: Scott Humber

Our Artist Residency Program has had a profound impact on the artists who have participated. As Kai Bryan, our Artist in Residence in 2023, expressed:

“So much of our lives as creatives are dictated by strict rules and deliverables to funders, programmers, etc. The freedom and joy I experienced in this open creative process as a result of the trust Untellable placed in me and my work was valuable beyond words, and without a doubt led to some of the most rewarding and valuable explorations I have experienced in the studio in a long time.”

Kai’s experience underscores the essence of our program: trust in the artist’s process and the provision of space for genuine creative exploration.

Keely Whitelaw, Artist in Residence 2024

Join Us

If you are a movement artist looking for an opportunity to dive deeply into your practice, we invite you to explore our Artist Residency Program. Whether you’re just starting out or are an established artist, our program is designed to support your creative journey in a meaningful way.

Q and A with Amy Chafe, Untellable’s 2024 Digital Artist in Residence

Photo credit: Greg Locke

Amy Chafe is an independent Newfoundland artist who is fascinated by all types of movement. With a background in partner dance, she has in recent years expanded her view to include a multitude of new partners, such as fabrics, silks, ropes and even stone.

She has an insatiable desire to find new ways to flow and fly, and to connect with the world through movement. Her dream is to continue creating and inspire others to be fearless in their pursuit of joy.

Photo credit: Scott Humber

Q: Can you describe your creative process?

A: My creative process always begins with some type of inspiration. It could be a song, a movement, a location, a costume, or just a moment or feeling, but it is always something that sticks in my brain and I find myself returning to over and over. The more I let it simmer, the more it takes shape. I like to spend time with an idea and let it evolve slowly. I find I work best if I don’t set limits and instead allow my thoughts to spiral in different directions each time I pick up the idea. Gradually I collect other thoughts and concepts that fit, and those pieces get added to the puzzle. I try not to decide where it ends, and instead just continue building, allowing myself to listen to my intuition and swap out pieces when I find another that fits better. An idea is never finished or complete, it can always be picked up again at a later date, and because of this I find it easier to let go of the need to make it perfect. Instead I let anything I create change with me, and embody it as best I can in that moment.

Photo credit: Scott Humber

Q: What themes or concepts are you currently exploring? 

A: I am currently exploring the idea of using locations as inspiration for movement. Not just the physical location, but all of the tiny details, the time of day, the light, the angles, the textures. How does my position or orientation within the space affect how I feel about it? What types of feelings or moods does a space inspire me to feel? How can I represent those feelings in my own movements? Can I create and capture those movements in such a way that I can inspire another to feel the same? And then finally, is there a way to translate all of this to a different plane of movement without feeling disconnected?

Photo credit: Scott Humber

Q: How do you integrate movement and technology in your work, and what challenges or breakthroughs have you encountered in blending these elements?

A: Technology has created so many new possibilities for the capturing of movement. I have especially enjoyed working with drone photographers this past year. Drones let us find sweeping views and changing perspectives that are impossible to perceive in person. They let us capture perfect angles with precision. The flowing sweeping views of a drone add an extra layer of complexity and beauty to a scene. The flying of a drone and knowing that perfect perspective is an art unto itself. 

Beyond this, simply having the ability to record and edit video opens up a level of exploration and living in the moment that is very hard to achieve in live performance. It is okay to experiment and fail. The freedom of being able to make mistakes and move instinctively instead of being completely bound by a choreography or a watching audience, creates moments of true magic. The resulting piece has a level of freedom and wildness that we cannot witness in person.

Photo credit: Scott Humber

Q: How has your residency at Untellable influenced or expanded your artistic vision?

A: Untellable has given me the opportunity to dig deep into a project. To let it slowly simmer, building momentum without losing focus, and finally growing into a crescendo. It has given me purpose for a project in a way that I have never had before. The motivation and drive that I have gained through knowing that my artistic vision is supported and desired has given me an unbelievable level of inspiration and confidence. It has awakened a curiosity in myself, a desire to see how far I can go, and to discover what I can create next.

Photo credit: Greg Locke

Untellable Movement Theatre Launches Pilot Digital Artist in Residence Program

Untellable Movement Theatre is thrilled to introduce an exciting new chapter in our commitment to artistic innovation: the Digital Artist in Residence program. This pilot initiative is designed to provide exceptional support for artists working at the intersection of technology and performance.

Embracing Digital Performance

As the landscape of performance art continues to evolve, the digital realm has become an increasingly vital space for creative exploration. Recognizing this, Untellable Movement Theatre has developed the Digital Artist in Residence program to empower artists who are pushing the boundaries of what performance can be in the digital age. This program is not just about creating digital works; it’s about reimagining how art can be experienced, shared, and interacted with in a world that is increasingly shaped by technology.

Untellable Movement Theatre is dedicated to supporting the evolution of contemporary performance art, and the Digital Artist in Residence program is a natural extension of this mission. By nurturing creative exploration in the digital realm, we aim to contribute to the ongoing dialogue about what performance art can become in the present. This program represents an exciting opportunity for artists to experiment, innovate, and redefine the possibilities of their medium.

Welcoming Our 2024 Digital Artist in Residence: Amy Chafe

photo credit: Terry Day

We are delighted to announce that Amy Chafe has accepted our invitation to be the 2024 Digital Artist in Residence. Amy was one of the original Mayflies Digital Artists in 2020 and contributed a stunning piece to Mayflies Digital in 2023.

Amy Chafe is an independent Newfoundland artist who is fascinated by all types of movement. With a background in partner dance, she has in recent years expanded her view to include a multitude of new partners, such as fabrics, silks, ropes and even stone.

She has an insatiable desire to find new ways to flow and fly, and to connect with the world through movement. Her dream is to continue creating and inspire others to be fearless in their pursuit of joy.

It Could Always Be Like This: Embracing a Generous and Kind Art-Making Process at Untellable Movement Theatre

Eli and the Death Curse in rehearsal, 2023

It Could Always Be Like This

“At one point in rehearsal I remember saying something to Lynn Panting around the lines of how great everything was going, or how much I was enjoying it all. And she responded with "Kev, it could always be like this." The "this" that she was talking about was exactly what I experienced. A process full of generosity, openness, fearlessness, safety, and care. A process of art making that cared as much about the making as about the product. A process that created a family. I hope that Untellable Movement Theatre has many legacies, but if I had to choose just one, I wish that the seeds of "it could always be like this" is sown deeply into everyone this company works with, and that it is passed on and nurtured and grown throughout all the makers that it touches, until "it could always be like this" becomes "it's always like this." So here's to that spirit of generous and kind art making, with many hopes for its continuation.”

-Kevin Woolridge, Chair Untellable Movement Theatre

A Nurturing Environment for Creative Work

A nurturing creative environment is the cornerstone of meaningful and impactful art-making. We understand that the conditions in which art is created impacts the quality and authenticity of the work in the room and the final product. Further, room conditions can have lasting impact for artists long after a project’s end. Here's why fostering a nurturing creative environment is so crucial:

Encouraging Risk-Taking and Innovation

In an environment where artists feel safe and supported, they are more likely to take creative risks and push the boundaries of their art. Fear of failure or judgment can stifle creativity, leading to safe, conventional choices. A nurturing environment, however, encourages experimentation and innovation, allowing artists to explore new ideas and approaches. This leads to more dynamic and groundbreaking performances that challenge and captivate audiences.

Enhancing Emotional Expression

Art is deeply connected to emotion, and the ability to express these emotions honestly and openly is essential for powerful performances. A supportive environment helps artists feel comfortable and confident in sharing their vulnerabilities and personal experiences. This emotional authenticity resonates with audiences, creating a deeper connection and more impactful storytelling.

Building Strong Collaborations

Collaboration is at the heart of our practice. A nurturing environment fosters a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among artists, leading to stronger and more cohesive collaborations. When artists feel valued and heard, they are more willing to contribute their ideas and talents, resulting in a richer and more diverse creative process. This collective effort enhances the overall quality of the production.

Promoting Personal and Professional Growth

A supportive creative environment not only benefits the art but also the artists themselves. It provides a space for personal and professional growth, allowing artists to develop their skills, confidence, and artistic voices. Mentorship, constructive feedback, and encouragement are key components of this growth, helping artists reach their full potential and continue evolving in their craft.

Creating Lasting Impact

The effects of a nurturing creative environment extend beyond the immediate production. Artists who experience such an environment are likely to carry its values into their future work and collaborations. This perpetuates a culture of kindness, generosity, and support within the broader arts community. The positive experiences and lessons learned become part of a larger legacy that influences and inspires others.

Our Commitment

At Untellable Movement Theatre, we are deeply committed to creating and maintaining a nurturing creative environment. We prioritize the well-being and development of artists, ensuring that they have the support and resources they need to thrive. Our approach is rooted in the belief that the process of making art should be as fulfilling and inspiring as the art itself.

It could always be like this.

Untellable Movement Theatre’s First Project: Mayflies Digital 2020

Mayflies Digital 2020

In the fall of 2020, Untellable Movement Theatre embarked on its inaugural project, “Mayflies Digital 2020”, a series that encapsulated our mission: making professional dance as accessible as possible.

Inspired by Al Pittman’s poetic work, ‘Dance of the Mayflies,’ this project brought together the talent and dedication of numerous performers to create a unique digital dance experience.

Louise Moyes, Mayflies Digital 2020

The Concept

“Mayflies Digital 2020” was a series of 50 one-minute digital dances, each released on Instagram starting October 5, 2020. The brevity of these pieces was intentional, making them a digestible and easily consumed introduction to dance.

The metaphor of the mayfly—a creature with a fleeting life—perfectly mirrored the ephemeral nature of each dance. Here for a moment and then gone, these dances leave an impression without requiring a ticket.

Erina Tanaka, Mayflies Digital 2020

Accessibility Through Digital Media

By choosing Instagram as our platform, we aimed to reach a broad audience, breaking down the barriers that often surround professional dance. Each weekday, a new dance was released, inviting viewers to experience the art form in a way that fit seamlessly into their daily lives. This approach not only democratized access to dance but also demonstrated how art can adapt and thrive in the digital age.

Catherine Wright, Mayflies Digital 2020

The Performers

The success of “Mayflies Digital 2020” was made possible by the incredible performers who brought each one-minute piece to life. Mayflies Artists included:

• Amy Chafe

• Natalie Hobbs

• Hilary Walsh

• Mark White

• Leslie Pierce

• Kevin Woolridge

• Lynn Panting

• Claire Garland

• Jamie Skidmore

• Kristen Murray

• Sarah Predham

• Louise Moyes

• Dakshita Jagota

• Rohan Dhupar

• Keely Whitelaw

• Meghan McCabe

• Nabila Qureshi

• Vanessa Matthews

• Philip McDermott

• Jenn Edwards

• Karen McBride

• Elaine Dunphy

• Susan Crocker

• Colin Furlong

• Vanessa Cardoso Whelan

• Samantha Ellis

• Devanshi Jagota

• Robyn Breen

• Kate Whelan

• Tendai Mudunge

• Robyn Sirkin

• Hannah Kirby

• Victoria Wells-Smith

• Drew Berry

• Heather Rumancik

• Elizabeth Gagnon

• Charlotte Fowlow

• Erina Tanaka

• Colton West

• Jayne Batstone

• Bonnie Lennox

• Catherine Wright

• Josh Murphy

• Alten Wilmot

• Dylan Brentwood

• Manon Avoine

• Abby LeDrew

• Rebecca Kirby

Josh Murphy, Mayflies Digital 2020

A Special Presentation

To culminate this groundbreaking project, a video compilation of all the Mayfly solos was presented on ArtsNL’s YouTube Channel on December 8th, 2020. This special presentation was made possible by ArtsNL’s ‘Arts in the Time of COVID’ fund, recognizing the importance of keeping the arts alive and accessible during challenging times.

Karen McBride, Mayflies Digital 2020

Reflections

Mayflies Digital 2020 is a testament to Untellable Movement Theatre’s commitment to innovation, accessibility, and the transformative power of movement.

In 2022 Mayflies was expanded into a performance series in partnership with Provincial Historic sites.

In 2024 we host our first digital artist in residence and will present our 100th digital Mayflies dance!

What is Movement Theatre?

Eli and the Death Curse, 2023, presented in partnership with RCAT

photo credit Chris Hibbs

What is Movement Theatre?

What exactly is movement theatre, anyway? As a genre that blends various performance techniques, movement theatre can sometimes be challenging to define.

Defining Movement Theatre

Movement theatre is a genre that seamlessly integrates physical movement with traditional theatrical elements to tell stories, convey emotions, and explore themes. Unlike conventional theatre, which primarily relies on dialogue and scripted actions, movement theatre emphasizes the physicality of performance. It uses the body as the primary vehicle for expression, often incorporating dance, mime, gesture, and improvisation.

The body is not decorative in movement theatre, it is essential.

The Roots of Movement Theatre

The origins of movement theatre can be traced back to various influences, including dance theatre, physical theatre, and experimental performance art. Pioneers such as Jacques Lecoq and Jerzy Grotowski played significant roles in developing techniques that prioritize the body's expressive potential. These influences have helped shape movement theatre into a dynamic and ever-evolving genre transcending traditional boundaries.

The Core Elements of Movement Theatre (for us)

• Physical Expression: At its heart, movement theatre prioritizes the use of the body to communicate ideas and emotions. This can range from highly stylized and choreographed sequences to more naturalistic and improvised movements.

• Visual Storytelling: Movement theatre often relies on visual elements to convey its narrative. This includes the use of props, costumes, lighting, and setting to create an immersive experience for the audience.

• Emotional Resonance: By focusing on physicality, movement theatre can tap into the raw, visceral aspects of human experience. It has the power to evoke strong emotional responses and create a deep connection between performers and audiences.

The Impact of Movement Theatre

Movement theatre's unique blend of elements offers several distinct advantages and impacts:

• Inclusivity: Because it can rely less on spoken language, movement theatre can be more inclusive and accessible to diverse audiences, including those who may not speak the language of the performance.

• Innovative Storytelling: The flexibility of movement theatre allows for innovative approaches to storytelling. It encourages experimentation and pushes the boundaries of what theatre can be.

• Enhanced Engagement: The physicality and visual nature of movement theatre often result in highly engaging performances. Audiences are drawn into the action, making for a more immersive and memorable experience.

Movement Theatre at Untellable Movement Theatre

At Untellable Movement Theatre, we embrace the genre's potential to create compelling and thought-provoking performances. Our approach involves:

• Collaboration: We work with a diverse group of artists, including dancers, actors, and musicians, to create multi-faceted performances that highlight the strengths of each contributor.

• Exploration: We continually explore new techniques and methods to push the boundaries of movement theatre. This spirit of exploration allows us to keep our work fresh and innovative.

• Connection: We believe in the power of movement to connect people on a deeper level. Our performances aim to resonate emotionally with audiences, creating a shared experience that transcends words.

Why Movement and Not Dance?

2024 Artist in Residence, Keely Whitelaw, performs with Greg Bruce for the 2024 Mayflies Performance Series

Why Movement?

We often get asked, "Why movement and not just dance?" As a company deeply rooted in the art of dance, this question is both natural and insightful. Dance is undeniably a core part of our organization. We work with incredible dance professionals who bring their expertise and passion to our programming. However, our commitment to movement goes beyond the traditional boundaries of dance, and here's why.

The Power of Movement

Movement encompasses the full spectrum of human expression. Dance has a stricter definition and can connotate rigid and colonial limits. By embracing movement in its entirety, we create space for a more inclusive and diverse range of expressions. This inclusivity is at the heart of our philosophy and allows us to cast a larger net, inviting more people to connect with and participate in our work.

Inclusivity and Accessibility

Dance can sometimes feel exclusive or intimidating, particularly to those who do not identify as dancers or who may feel self-conscious about their abilities. Movement, on the other hand, is something everyone engages in daily, often without even realizing it. By focusing on movement, we open the door to individuals of all backgrounds, abilities, and experiences. This approach makes our work more accessible and encourages broader participation, fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and valued.

Expanding Creative Boundaries

Incorporating a wide range of movement practices allows us to push creative boundaries and explore new artistic territories. Movement provides endless possibilities for storytelling and expression. This flexibility enables our artists to experiment and innovate, blending dance with elements of theater, improvisation, and even everyday actions. The result is a rich tapestry of performance that transcends conventional dance and offers audiences something truly unique and compelling.

Enhancing Emotional Connection

Movement has an innate ability to convey emotions and tell stories in a way that words alone often cannot. It taps into the primal and universal aspects of human experience, allowing us to communicate on a deeper level. By utilizing movement, we can create powerful, visceral performances that resonate with audiences on an emotional level. This connection is fundamental to our mission of telling untold stories and making the invisible visible.

Collaboration and Community

Our emphasis on movement also fosters collaboration among a diverse group of artists. Dancers, actors, musicians, aerialists, circus professionals and athletes alike can come together to create something extraordinary. This collaborative spirit not only enriches our work but also strengthens the sense of community within our company and with our audience. Movement becomes a shared and expansive language that bridges gaps and unites us in our creative endeavours.

What’s in a Name?

Hilary Walsh, Four Parts, 2021, photo credit Ritche Perez

How Untellable Movement Theatre Got Its Name

The irony of writing about how “Untellable” got its name is not lost on us!

The Birth of a Vision

When we founded Untellable Movement Theatre, we envisioned a space where stories were told not just through words but through every fiber of the performers' beings. We wanted to create a place where movement was the primary language and not simply tagged on or decorative.

The Brainstorming Process

We tossed around various ideas, some focusing on the physicality of movement, others on the emotional impact of storytelling. We considered names that were playful, dramatic, and even enigmatic. But none seemed to quite capture the essence of what we were trying to achieve.

The Lightbulb Moment

How do you describe something ineffable? It’s beyond language, it’s untellable.

UNTELLABLE

Embracing the Name

With "Untellable" as the cornerstone, the name Untellable Movement Theatre was born. It reflects our commitment to exploring storytelling through movement in both dance and theatre spaces. It signifies our belief that some stories are too profound, too complex, and too beautiful to be contained within the confines of traditional narrative structures.

Living Up to the Name

The name Untellable Movement Theatre serves as a constant reminder of our mission: to explore the untellable, to move beyond the limitations of conventional storytelling. It's a name that inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries and to remain true to the essence of what makes our work unique.

As we move forward, we carry the spirit of the untellable with us, always seeking to discover new ways to tell stories that words alone cannot express.

Discover our Programming:

• Our Repertoire

• Mayflies Digital

• Mayflies Performance Series

• Artist in Residence Program

• Movement Theatre Incubator

Our Story

logo design by Lynn Panting

Untellable Movement Theatre was born in 2020 with a bold vision: to make professional dance and movement theatre performances accessible to everyone. Founded by dance sector veteran, Lynn Panting, and supported by a dedicated founding board of directors—Kevin Woolridge, Leslie Pierce, Hilary Walsh, and Mark White—our journey began with a commitment to breaking down barriers and bringing the transformative power of movement to diverse audiences.

From the very start, we have been driven by a passion for collaboration and community. Our partnerships with esteemed organizations such as Neighbourhood Dance Works, The Arts and Culture Centres of Newfoundland and Labrador, Strong Harbour String Collective, Provincial Historic Sites, Resource Centre for the Arts Theatre Company, Dance NL, Hold Fast Contemporary Arts Festival, and Business & Arts NL have been integral to our mission. Together, we have created a platform where art thrives and connections flourish.

Untellable Movement Theatre isn't just about performances; it's about creating experiences that resonate deeply with people from all walks of life. Each performance is a journey, an exploration of human emotion and experience, told through the universal language of movement. Our dedication to making dance accessible ensures that these stories are shared widely, touching hearts and minds across Newfoundland and Labrador and beyond.

As we continue to grow, we remain committed to our founding principles. We strive to innovate, to inspire, and to make a meaningful impact on the cultural landscape. Our story is one of passion, partnership, and the enduring belief that meaningful performances have the power to change lives.

Join us as we continue to explore the untellable, to celebrate the beauty of movement, and to make professional dance and movement theatre a shared treasure for all.