CATALYST LAST CALL for the performing company is going down so make sure your there to show us what you got!!
MONDAY APRIL 27TH
Time: 8:30PM
Location: 892 COLLEGE STREET (Main intersection is College and Dovercourt)
Don't miss this opportunity to become part of Toronto's most diverse, cutting-edge all female dance company.
SEE YOU THERE!
Apr 24, 2009
Apr 6, 2009
Tomorrow NIGHT Catalyst Audition!
Just a reminder that our second Catalyst Bootcamp Audition for our all-female company is tomorrow night!! Come through and show us what you got!
Monday, April 6th
Time: 8:30pm
Location: Flow Fitness Studio
892 College Street (Main intersection is College and Dovercourt)
Please bring headshot and resume and be prepared to learn routine and possibly do a 1minute solo and improvisation.
SEE YOU THEN! There will be two more for the month of April.
Email catalyst@jlcdanceforms.com to let us know which date you will be attending.
Monday, April 6th
Time: 8:30pm
Location: Flow Fitness Studio
892 College Street (Main intersection is College and Dovercourt)
Please bring headshot and resume and be prepared to learn routine and possibly do a 1minute solo and improvisation.
SEE YOU THEN! There will be two more for the month of April.
Email catalyst@jlcdanceforms.com to let us know which date you will be attending.
Mar 31, 2009
CATALYST AUDITION - Preparing a Solo
Many dancers expressed concerns or worried bout preparing a solo for the Catalyst Audition. And to this, Catalyst response is ‘Why not take a risk? Challenge yourself to do something you don’t usually do.’ Since we are seeking risk-taking females, we added this element of the audition to test how comfortable each dancer was doing this.
There is no right or wrong answer to the solo because it simply showcases YOU and your individual skills. We saw everything from pointe, folkloric, tap, booty poppin, salsa, musical theatre, acro, jazz and more. It was amazing to see everyone present themselves. No one followed anyone else’s style but their own. You get to prepare and create something with no rules but the ones you make up.
How Liberating!
"CREATE YOUR FORMULA"
For many of you, we understand it may not be something your used to. But go ahead and try it! Dance class is great to grasp technique and style of other people’s movement but how about your own? Go through some of your favourite songs that speak to you, get up and start moving around. Do whatever feels good and natural to you. Sure, you may feel ridiculous in the beginning, however, after doing this many times, you’ll start to feel very free and in control of your body. Start building movement phrases and soon you would have created something of your own. (And maybe even something you feel comfortable showing at the Catalyst Audition perhaps?;)
Thank you to all the brave hearts that prepared their solos and stepped up to the challenge. We award you for attending, being present, and taking a risk.
Remember "It's not about whether you win or lose the game, what matters most is that you even SHOWED UP to play."
See the rest of you at the Catalyst Auditions in April. Good Luck!!!
There is no right or wrong answer to the solo because it simply showcases YOU and your individual skills. We saw everything from pointe, folkloric, tap, booty poppin, salsa, musical theatre, acro, jazz and more. It was amazing to see everyone present themselves. No one followed anyone else’s style but their own. You get to prepare and create something with no rules but the ones you make up.
How Liberating!
"CREATE YOUR FORMULA"
For many of you, we understand it may not be something your used to. But go ahead and try it! Dance class is great to grasp technique and style of other people’s movement but how about your own? Go through some of your favourite songs that speak to you, get up and start moving around. Do whatever feels good and natural to you. Sure, you may feel ridiculous in the beginning, however, after doing this many times, you’ll start to feel very free and in control of your body. Start building movement phrases and soon you would have created something of your own. (And maybe even something you feel comfortable showing at the Catalyst Audition perhaps?;)
Thank you to all the brave hearts that prepared their solos and stepped up to the challenge. We award you for attending, being present, and taking a risk.
Remember "It's not about whether you win or lose the game, what matters most is that you even SHOWED UP to play."
See the rest of you at the Catalyst Auditions in April. Good Luck!!!
Mar 28, 2009
CATALYST COMPANY AUDITIONS - Still seeking
Catalyst is still seeking core female dancers for it’s company!! Attend any ONE of the Catalyst Bootcamp sessions in April to show us what you got!
Monday, April 6th
Monday April 20th
Monday, April 27th
Time: All Mondays from 8:30-10:30pm
Location: Flow Fitness Studio
892 College Street (Main intersection is College and Dovercourt)
Please bring headshot and resume and be prepared to learn routine and possibly do a 1 minute solo and improvisation.
All female dancers welcome with a strong preference for a Latin-trained dancer and Dancehall/Reggae or African dancer. We do not need to see you again if you have already attended our first call. Catalyst thanks everyone for their time and effort!!!
Monday, April 6th
Monday April 20th
Monday, April 27th
Time: All Mondays from 8:30-10:30pm
Location: Flow Fitness Studio
892 College Street (Main intersection is College and Dovercourt)
Please bring headshot and resume and be prepared to learn routine and possibly do a 1 minute solo and improvisation.
All female dancers welcome with a strong preference for a Latin-trained dancer and Dancehall/Reggae or African dancer. We do not need to see you again if you have already attended our first call. Catalyst thanks everyone for their time and effort!!!
Mar 23, 2009
Catalyst Vancouver Choreographer 'Heather Laura Gray" collaborates with NYC City Poet
Catalyst Guest Vancouver Choreographer "Heather Laura Gray" united with New York City Poet in a performance at the 2009 Sound Bites Poetry Festival April 12th and 13th 6pm at the Roy Arias Theatre 300 West 43rd Street. Tickets $15.00
This exciting collaboration began after Gray traveled to New York to deliver a DVD of a performance done to Mahogany’s “She”. “In 2006 I produced a 60 cast showcase of spoken word through music and dance. I found “She” on an unlabelled burnt CD from poetCD.com and instantly connected with Mahogany’s content and amazing delivery not knowing the author or the title”.
When Gray went to perform “She” a second time in 2007 she made sure to determine the author. From there the two communicated via email. “Trying to describe what I did was pointless; I knew I had to show Mahogany.” Soon after viewing the DVD Browne commissioned Gray to collaborate on new work for The Sounds Bites Festival 2009.
Both artists come from different city, countries and very different backgrounds but bond through their passion to create journeys for their audiences. “She is an artist with amazing craftsmanship and awareness” said Gray “To hear that she was moved by my work meant I succeeded in connecting to that. I look forward to putting it together now in the same room.”
Catalyst congratulates Heather on her exciting collaboration and for those of you who are in the NYC area, make sure to check it out!
This exciting collaboration began after Gray traveled to New York to deliver a DVD of a performance done to Mahogany’s “She”. “In 2006 I produced a 60 cast showcase of spoken word through music and dance. I found “She” on an unlabelled burnt CD from poetCD.com and instantly connected with Mahogany’s content and amazing delivery not knowing the author or the title”.
When Gray went to perform “She” a second time in 2007 she made sure to determine the author. From there the two communicated via email. “Trying to describe what I did was pointless; I knew I had to show Mahogany.” Soon after viewing the DVD Browne commissioned Gray to collaborate on new work for The Sounds Bites Festival 2009.
Both artists come from different city, countries and very different backgrounds but bond through their passion to create journeys for their audiences. “She is an artist with amazing craftsmanship and awareness” said Gray “To hear that she was moved by my work meant I succeeded in connecting to that. I look forward to putting it together now in the same room.”
Catalyst congratulates Heather on her exciting collaboration and for those of you who are in the NYC area, make sure to check it out!
Thank you Catalyst Auditionees!!!
Thank you to everyone that attended the Catalyst Company Auditions yesterday. You rocked it out!!
We will be holding a few other calls in April for the Company. Dates and Locatios TBA.
We will be holding a few other calls in April for the Company. Dates and Locatios TBA.
Mar 20, 2009
INTRODUCING CATALYST COMPANY PANEL JUDGES!!!
When auditioning for Catalyst this SUNDAY, MARCH 22ND, you are not only auditioning for the Company but it is your chance to shine and be seen by CATALYST Judges. Each brings top-notch knowledge and expertise to the Arts and Entertainment world.
Janet L. Castillo and Natasha Powell: Co-Artistic Directors of CATALYST the Company. Combined credits include Jennifer Lopez, Christina Milian, Rihanna, JoJo, Center Stage 2, Nickleodeon’s Spectacular!, SYTYCD, Making It Big Reality TV Show, The L Word, Canadian and American Idol, MTV and more. Both classically and commercially trained with other 15 years of international experience, Janet and Natasha bring their versatile, fresh, and cutting-edge artistic direction to CATALYST.
Misha Rasaiah:
Graduate of Randolph Academy of the Performing Arts who is currently working with renowned Casting Director ‘Stephanie Gorin.’ She has helped cast and been a dance demonstrator for shows including We Will Rock you, Dirty Dancing, The Sound of Music, Camp Rock, So you think you can Dance, Hairspray, and Priscilla Queen of the Desert. Misha brings her love and wealth of knowledge in the performing arts along with her exceptional casting experience to CATALYST.
Hans Poppe:
Responsible for the creative and art direction behind Catalyst and JLC Danceforms. Currently he is studying Fine Arts at Toronto School of Arts, freelancing for a roster of clients and working on his next series of paintings and limited edition prints. Hans’s creative eye and passion for anything driven by artistic expression is what makes him a essential ingredient to CATALYST.
Sammy Gerongco:
One half of Production duo KUYA PRODUCTIONS, Sammy is known for his outstanding work in R&B, Pop, and Hip Hop. Major credits include first #1 singles for Canadian artist Sean Desman “Get Ready” and “Shook”. He has produced for Nelly’s ‘SUIT’ Album (3x Platinum) and Mase’s ‘Welcome Back’ Album (Gold). He has recently produced for some of today’s biggest artists including AKON, Ginuwine, Nicole Scherzinger of the PussyCat Dolls, Jesse McCartney, Kreesha Turner, and Slim of 112 among others. This year, KUYA is working on Jordan Crouchers’ new album and signing fresh new talent. Sammy brings his musical and artist development expertise to CATALYST.
Good Luck and see you all on Sunday!! Please arrive ON TIME and be prepared to dance and show us what you got!!! Register for Audition at catalyst@jlcdanceforms.com
Janet L. Castillo and Natasha Powell: Co-Artistic Directors of CATALYST the Company. Combined credits include Jennifer Lopez, Christina Milian, Rihanna, JoJo, Center Stage 2, Nickleodeon’s Spectacular!, SYTYCD, Making It Big Reality TV Show, The L Word, Canadian and American Idol, MTV and more. Both classically and commercially trained with other 15 years of international experience, Janet and Natasha bring their versatile, fresh, and cutting-edge artistic direction to CATALYST.
Misha Rasaiah:
Graduate of Randolph Academy of the Performing Arts who is currently working with renowned Casting Director ‘Stephanie Gorin.’ She has helped cast and been a dance demonstrator for shows including We Will Rock you, Dirty Dancing, The Sound of Music, Camp Rock, So you think you can Dance, Hairspray, and Priscilla Queen of the Desert. Misha brings her love and wealth of knowledge in the performing arts along with her exceptional casting experience to CATALYST.
Hans Poppe:
Responsible for the creative and art direction behind Catalyst and JLC Danceforms. Currently he is studying Fine Arts at Toronto School of Arts, freelancing for a roster of clients and working on his next series of paintings and limited edition prints. Hans’s creative eye and passion for anything driven by artistic expression is what makes him a essential ingredient to CATALYST.
Sammy Gerongco:
One half of Production duo KUYA PRODUCTIONS, Sammy is known for his outstanding work in R&B, Pop, and Hip Hop. Major credits include first #1 singles for Canadian artist Sean Desman “Get Ready” and “Shook”. He has produced for Nelly’s ‘SUIT’ Album (3x Platinum) and Mase’s ‘Welcome Back’ Album (Gold). He has recently produced for some of today’s biggest artists including AKON, Ginuwine, Nicole Scherzinger of the PussyCat Dolls, Jesse McCartney, Kreesha Turner, and Slim of 112 among others. This year, KUYA is working on Jordan Crouchers’ new album and signing fresh new talent. Sammy brings his musical and artist development expertise to CATALYST.
Good Luck and see you all on Sunday!! Please arrive ON TIME and be prepared to dance and show us what you got!!! Register for Audition at catalyst@jlcdanceforms.com
Mar 11, 2009
CATALYST CONGRATULATES HOK and QUEST on America's Best Dance Crew!!!
Catalyst had the honour of having HOK as our guest teacher last October. He mentioned to the Bootcampers that he was going to be auditioning for the show and months later, him and his crew 'QUEST' have gained the official title of America's Best Dance Crew!!! Their superhuman power moves, quarky and charming personalities instantly had the crowd on their feet chanting "QUEST CREW!! QUEST CREW!!"
We plan to see more of HOK (and maybe some other Quest members) at an upcoming Catalyst Bootcamp workshop. You will NOT want to miss it!! Not only are they extraordinary perfomers and teachers, but extraordinary PEOPLE. And that, in our books, is definite Catalyst material.
Mar 1, 2009
CATALYST COMPANY AUDITIONS!!
Catalyst is seeking female dance artists for it’s upcoming company, under the direction of Janet L. Castillo (JLo, Christina Milian, JOJO, Kurtis Blow) and Natasha Powell (Nickelodeon’s Spectacular, Center Stage 2, Rihanna)
Seeking: Versatile dancers who are 20yrs and older, possess strong technique in their forte of dance (ballet/contemporary, latin, hip hop, street styles, jazz, other styles). Must be passionate, willing to take risks, and have a raw and unique quality in their performance. Teaching and choreography skills are a definite asset. Performers must be available for 2 rehearsals per week.
Be prepared to learn choreography in different styles, and have a solo routine that is a maximum of 2 minutes. Please bring headshot and resume.
SUNDAY, MARCH 22ND
AUDITION LOCATION: GOTTA DANCE STUDIO 3581B DUNDAS STREET WEST (BLOOR ST. WEST AND DUNDAS ST. WEST)
TIME: 2:00 p.m.
For any other inquiries please contact catalyst@jlcdanceforms.com or call 1.888.210.4542
Seeking: Versatile dancers who are 20yrs and older, possess strong technique in their forte of dance (ballet/contemporary, latin, hip hop, street styles, jazz, other styles). Must be passionate, willing to take risks, and have a raw and unique quality in their performance. Teaching and choreography skills are a definite asset. Performers must be available for 2 rehearsals per week.
Be prepared to learn choreography in different styles, and have a solo routine that is a maximum of 2 minutes. Please bring headshot and resume.
SUNDAY, MARCH 22ND
AUDITION LOCATION: GOTTA DANCE STUDIO 3581B DUNDAS STREET WEST (BLOOR ST. WEST AND DUNDAS ST. WEST)
TIME: 2:00 p.m.
For any other inquiries please contact catalyst@jlcdanceforms.com or call 1.888.210.4542
Feb 27, 2009
CATALYST BOOTCAMP FOLLOW-UP SESSION!
Thank you to everyone that came to the CATALYST BOOTCAMP FOLLOW-UP Session last Sunday, February 22nd. It was great seeing both new and current bootcampers!
Thank you also to our Guest Teacher Dr. Blessyl who taught a workshop "Hiding Behind the Wings: Turn Stage Fright into Stage Excite". Janet's Street Jazz "HALO" and Natasha's "SET IT OFF" Choreography rocked.
Look out for several more Catalyst Bootcamp workshops coming up!!
Thank you also to our Guest Teacher Dr. Blessyl who taught a workshop "Hiding Behind the Wings: Turn Stage Fright into Stage Excite". Janet's Street Jazz "HALO" and Natasha's "SET IT OFF" Choreography rocked.
Look out for several more Catalyst Bootcamp workshops coming up!!
Nov 19, 2008
Catalyst Bootcamp Toronto
Catalyst Bootcamp at the end of DAY 1....
Catalyst Bootcamp at the end of DAY 2...
The SURVIVORS of the Catalyst Bootcamp weekend!! Each and every one of you should be incredibly proud of yourselves.
Catalyst Bootcamp at the end of DAY 2...
The SURVIVORS of the Catalyst Bootcamp weekend!! Each and every one of you should be incredibly proud of yourselves.
Nov 17, 2008
Catalyst Bootcamp Toronto
“I thought the choreo was fab. Felt good on body and fun. Challenging in a good way. "
“Very intimate and lots of space. Everyone really got along.”
"Want to learn more!!”
Nov 15, 2008
Congratulations to our CATALYST SCHOLAR: Sonja Stilnovich
Congratulations to Sonja Stilnovich for being awarded the first CATALYST SCHOLARSHIP. The Catalyst scholarship entitles her to the following:
* One FREE JLC Danceforms workshop
* Consultation and Representation by Chrstylz Entertainment - a young and urban company that provides talent (dancers, models, actors) for various projects.
* Training with Catalyst Dance Company 2009
* Featured as a performer in Catalyst Fall Production 2009 
Sonja's CATALYST EXPERIENCE:
“The Catalyst Boot Camp is one of the best workshops that I have been to in a really long time. What I loved about it was how intimate and interactive it was. The class sizes were small, focused and friendly. Everyone supported and inspired one another through their movement and energy. This boot camp IS inspiration, it IS faith and it is realizing that dreams CAN AND DO come true.”
Sonja was selected because her drive, passion for her craft, well-rounded dancing, and eagerness to learn, was evident throughout the entire bootcamp weekend. Congrats and get ready for what's to come!!!
Nov 12, 2008
Nov 9, 2008
Catalyst Jr workshop with HOK
Originally we were only booking HOK for our Catalyst Bootcamp weekend (for advanced dancers 16 yrs+), but as word got out at the studios that he was coming to Toronto, many young dancers asked "Why can't WE go to Hok's class?!?!" We asked ourselves the same question and didn't come up with a good enough answer. So we organized a workshop with HOK specifically for juniors/intermediates (ages 9-15 yrs).
And what a huge success it turned out to be!!! Thank you to everyone that attended- all the dancers (and their supportive parents). Many were moved, inspired, challenged, and amused by HOK's exceptional teaching and dance abilities. Only the BEST teachers at Catalyst!
THANK YOU goes to All That Dance for the use of their studio and all their dancers that attended. Also to the groups from TDI, Jessica's Dance Innovations, and Chantal's Dance Academy.
Great job everyone! See you at the next CATALYST WORKSHOP.
And what a huge success it turned out to be!!! Thank you to everyone that attended- all the dancers (and their supportive parents). Many were moved, inspired, challenged, and amused by HOK's exceptional teaching and dance abilities. Only the BEST teachers at Catalyst!
THANK YOU goes to All That Dance for the use of their studio and all their dancers that attended. Also to the groups from TDI, Jessica's Dance Innovations, and Chantal's Dance Academy.
Great job everyone! See you at the next CATALYST WORKSHOP.
CONGRATULATIONS to Nia Archer, Serena Pitt, and Lauren Smith for being hand-picked by HOK to receive an exclusive CATALYST BOOTCAMP t-shirt!! Looking Good girls.
Nov 6, 2008
Catalyst Dream Team
We BELIEVE In Dreams.....
......and making them come TRUE.
xoxoxo
Janet, Natasha, Marjorie
......and making them come TRUE.
xoxoxo
Janet, Natasha, Marjorie
CATALYST FACULTY
Extraordinary Performers. Extraordinary PEOPLE.
They've produced and directed a 60 member cast show; survived 10 powerful rounds of a 'Dance or Die' international battle; danced in Nickelodeon and Disney feature films, choreographed for superstars Jennifer Lopez and Christina Milian, and appeared as finalists on hit dance show 'So you think you can Dance.'
Beyond that, they've found some peace of mind, inspired kids in Grenada, professionally played the violin, travelled Europe, and obtained Bachelor Degrees.
Introducing the CATALYST FACULTY....
"You guys know your stuff & your there to help. You don’t let EGO get in the way.”
“You made us do things to help us over-come our insecurities without making us uncomfortable.”
“So enthusiastic...great attitudes, very real and motivating and clearly passionate about what they do.”
“I loved all of the teachers and each of their individual personalities and talents.”
Janet L. Castillo. Extraordinary Catalyst Power: Firestarter
Natasha Powell. Extraordinary Catalyst Power: Motivator
Hokuto Konishi( aka HOK). Extraordinary Catalyst Power: Super Asian rice-loving power
Heather Laura Gray. Extraordinary Catalyst Power: Absorber
They've produced and directed a 60 member cast show; survived 10 powerful rounds of a 'Dance or Die' international battle; danced in Nickelodeon and Disney feature films, choreographed for superstars Jennifer Lopez and Christina Milian, and appeared as finalists on hit dance show 'So you think you can Dance.'
Beyond that, they've found some peace of mind, inspired kids in Grenada, professionally played the violin, travelled Europe, and obtained Bachelor Degrees.
Introducing the CATALYST FACULTY....
"You guys know your stuff & your there to help. You don’t let EGO get in the way.”
“You made us do things to help us over-come our insecurities without making us uncomfortable.”
“So enthusiastic...great attitudes, very real and motivating and clearly passionate about what they do.”
“I loved all of the teachers and each of their individual personalities and talents.”
Janet L. Castillo. Extraordinary Catalyst Power: Firestarter
Natasha Powell. Extraordinary Catalyst Power: Motivator
Hokuto Konishi( aka HOK). Extraordinary Catalyst Power: Super Asian rice-loving power
Heather Laura Gray. Extraordinary Catalyst Power: Absorber
CATALYST BOOTCAMP in TORONTO a SUCCESS!!
On October 18th and 19th, Catalyst Bootcamp launched its first ever dance weekend in Toronto. A success by all to say the least!
Our Mission at Catalyst Bootcamp is to provide an alternate pathway for aspiring dance artists to achieve their ultimate dreams. Through our interactive workhop, our experienced team will activate your mind, body, and soul, so you can achieve optimal results in your professional dance career. We are committed to providing the resources, guidance, and training as you journey into the unknown.
Stay tuned as we will be posting Catalyst video footage, photos, testimonals, and stories from Catalyst Bootcamp in Toronto.
WELCOME TO CATALYST
Our Mission at Catalyst Bootcamp is to provide an alternate pathway for aspiring dance artists to achieve their ultimate dreams. Through our interactive workhop, our experienced team will activate your mind, body, and soul, so you can achieve optimal results in your professional dance career. We are committed to providing the resources, guidance, and training as you journey into the unknown.
Stay tuned as we will be posting Catalyst video footage, photos, testimonals, and stories from Catalyst Bootcamp in Toronto.
WELCOME TO CATALYST
Feb 27, 2007
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