Festival of New Dance 2026: CHAMPIONESS

CHAMPIONESS is an electrifying performance that combines boxing with Western contemporary, Street, and Latin dance to explore notions of identity and mental health. SaMel Tanz reflects on the power of solidarity amongst women as they face fears, the constant grind, and navigate life-changing experiences, challenging society's perceptions of winners and losers.www.sameltanz.com CreditsChoreography by SaMel Tanz in collaboration with dancersPerformers: Mel Hart, Lauren Lyn, Aryana Malekzadeh, Indiana Mehta, Sam Schleese, ReneeSmithCostume Design: Tina FushellLighting Designer: Gabriel CropleyOriginal Lighting Design: Arun SrinivasanPhotography: Kendra Epik - Promotional PhotosRehearsal Director: Caddy SupervilleTour Manager: Rajvi Dedhia AcknowledgementsThis performance is supported by the Ontario Arts Council.Creation supported by the Canada Council for the Arts, and the Toronto Arts CouncilSponsors: Schleese Inc., Benson & Kearley, IG Wealth, SSL Group Watch the trailer for CHAMPIONESS here. Stick around after the show for an artist talkback facilitated by Fibre Artist in Residence Amy Bowring. Then, join us for a salsa lesson and afterparty at the Bamboo Room to celebrate the closing of the 2026 Festival of New Dance. New this year! Neighbourhood Dance Works, WritersNL, Arts & Culture Centre, and Anna Templeton Centre are pleased to present Writers, Makers, & Illustrators in Residence programming adjacent to the 2026 Festival of New Dance. Please click here to learn more about the residency and sign up for free response labs. (Photography: Kendra Epik)