Kaha:wi Dance Theatre

Kaha:wi Dance Theatre (KDT) is one of Canada’s leading contemporary dance companies, recognized for its seamless fusing of Indigenous and contemporary dance into a compelling signature choreographic vision.  Internationally renowned for artistic excellence, innovation and collaboration, KDT electrifies audiences from Canada and around the globe.

Kaha:wi (Ga-HA-Wee) means “to carry” in the Mohawk language and is a traditional name for Smith’s family.  KDT carries culture through dance, theatre, music and design.  Their vision is to be a dynamic force in contemporary dance in Canada, a centre for creativity, innovation, artistry and Aboriginal expression that reflects, honours and celebrates culture.

KDT was founded by Artistic Director Santee Smith, a leading Canadian choreographer “her highly charged, traditional/contemporary/ballet fusion eats up the stage” (Globe and Mail).  Known for her meaningful, athletic and earth-bound movement language her work is visually stunning, deeply symbolic, spiritually stirring and entertaining. “My work is a response and a reflection of the world in which I live. Through dance I am able to express my dreams, visions and stories, both historical and contemporary.” – Santee Smith

Kaha:wi Dance Theatre’s Artistic Season sees annual performances at Ontario and Torontos’ Harbourfront Centre; national and international touring; one-of-a-kind dance training programs such as Aboriginal Dance Training (ADT) and our March Break Dance Camp for youth.  KDT has been thrilling mature, family and young audiences with its original and powerful productions. Critical acclaimed young audience work, A Story Before Time has reached thousands of students across Canada and the USA.  Since inception, KDT’s repertoire includes Productions recognized as significant contributions to dance in Canada.

Performances

Kaha:wi Dance Theatre Presents The Honouring

A Story Before Time

Kaha:wi Dance Theatre (Six Nations/Toronto): The Mush Hole