Toronto (July 1, 2021) : A memorable Canada Day event, one for the books! Dancing Damsels Inc. presented a wonderful array of performances, interactive activities, and messages for their Facebook | YouTube Live audience on July 1, 2021. This holiday was honoured through exhibiting the Canadian values of multiculturalism, equity, and responsibility. The wide array of dance and music performances from the Mississauga Chinese Arts Organization, Elena La Comadre, Delicious Dance Academy, Lisa Samuel, Tanishka K. and John K., Swara Rao, and the Sruti Laya Fine Arts Academy, captivated the audience with their diverse interpretations of movement and melody.
Anna Samuel, the host for the event, was enthusiastic and engaging, motivating participation during the interactive elements. It was impossible not to answer her prompts, like “Describe what Canada means to you in one word”. Various answers filled the comment section, “Home”, “Respect”, “Peaceful”, “Dignity”, “Nature”, “Inclusion”, and many more characterized our country and painted a multidimensional perspective that Canadians treasure. The quiz near the end of the show tested viewers’ understanding of Canadian trivia with prizes for the winners. The lucky and knowledgeable four were Chitra Moorthy, Dr. Ashly Varghese, Cynthia Chow, and Ananya Das.
This Canada Day was unlike any other. With celebrations around the country being cancelled due to the need for reflection on Canada’s past missteps, Dancing Damsels provided a platform to try and rectify these wrongs. Their acknowledgement of the past with the need to better the future, and the heartwarming messages from Canadian dignitaries of multiple levels from across Canada inspired the call for reflection on our part and justice for our Indigenous neighbours. Dancing Damsels was able to turn what would have been a celebration into a respectful commemoration without abandoning entertainment.
This astounding event was made possible by Heritage Canada (Funder), Marybelle Labao (Creative Lead), Bryan Ashok (Videography, Advertising), Anna Samuel (Emcee), and CMN Network (Technical / Media Support).
Managing Director Mary Ashok welcomed the audience; Director Soni Rajan made the reflection and Director Gita Sankaran gave the vote of thanks.
You can rewatch the event here:
PART 1
PART 2:
