April Monthly & Member Feature
Photo by: Lula-Belle Jedynak
Take the plunge
The wait is almost over, Family Room (world premiere) is happening next week! Presented by New Works and The Dance Centre, this poignant dance theatre piece by Marissa Wong explores immigrant life and cultural identity – and the complexities of her Chinese-Canadian upbringing and navigating her parents’ divorce.
The innovative set design transforms the stage into a living room, each piece of furniture symbolizing familial connection and a foundation for interactions told through movement and text. Performed by three versatile dancers, Justin Calvadores, Tamar Tabori, Shana Wolfe, Family Room is a deeply personal and intimate work, which touches on universal themes including frustration, belonging, and love.
Check out the latest Pancouver issue HERE where Marissa shares about Family Room and TFC’s values.
Family Room (world premiere)
April 19 & 20, 2024 | 8pm
@ Scotiabank Dance Centre
*Save 20% on regular price tickets, enter discount code ARTISTFAM at checkout
We talk to Marissa’s parents about their feelings about Family Room, Marissa and TFC.
Left: Irene’s favourite family photo
How did you feel when you first heard about the project of Family Room?
Trepidation and worry about how I would be portrayed. What other people might think of me.
After watching the show last year, what was your initial reaction?
I cried. I didn’t realize how much pain Marissa was in. I felt regret I didn’t know what she needed or how to give it to her.
Can you share an early memory of Marissa performing?
She danced at a Christmas performance at Caulfield, her first dance school.
What aspect of growth did you see in The Falling Company over the last 3 years since Marissa took over?
More mentoring opportunities, a safe space for new dancers.
Right: Les’ favourite family photo
How did you feel when you first heard about the project of Family Room?
I felt that this could be an interesting show and was proud of Marissa for having the guts to have this approach.
After watching the show last year, what was your initial reaction?
I was a little shock of the portrayal of Irene, but then looking back, may have been quite accurate.
Can you share an early memory of Marissa performing?
Yes, I always felt quite involved with her dance career and always had tears watching her at "Balerina school" (inside joke).
What aspect of growth did you see in The Falling Company over the last 3 years since Marissa took over?
I saw a growth in maturity when she got on with The Falling Company.
