Ying and Yang...

Thoughts from "Ninja"

I've spent a lot of time gazing in mirrors, bound up in spandex and lyric attire... pinned to perfection. The amount of work a dancer must put into ballet is both physically and mentally exhausting. Nonetheless, it is where my true passion of movement began.

Over the years, my thirst for new experiences grew immensely. I found myself indulging in fantasies of martial arts, flips, tricks, and breaking. I journeyed far from the structure and extremities of ballet, and began developing a style that would best express who I am... lethal grace, the technique and elegance of classical ballet infused with the raw and boundless freedom of street dance.

In my journeys, I have travelled many places and met various kinds of artists. I fall in sheer captivation every time I see someone fresh, passionate and willing to embrace their movements. These artists are able to tell definitive, captivating stories, and I have enjoyed being the author to some of their narratives.

The stage has always been my home. When I'm away from its dark floors, elevated heights, and eye-blinding lights, a part of me is missing. I have a deep rooted connection to the stage, and I use it as a vessel for journeys beyond the realm of our existence. It is a place where people can dwell in wonder, and allow themselves to sink to the emotional depths of the water.

I came to Toronto to study in performance arts. During this time, I met a part of me that had been buried in the core of my being. Like the water, it was in constant motion even when it appeared to be calm, still, and serene. I grew to understand that we hold this part inside of us, below the surface, moving as rapid as water. It's strength can carry us through the hardest of times, or drown us in the silence of our sorrow. Acknowledging this, has enabled me to grow, and find balance within myself. Now, all that I want is to have the chance to share this feeling, in every motion that unfolds... and connect with those who feel it too.

Mark your calenders. You do not want to be anywhere by at "The 5th Element" on Wednesday, May 5th, 2010.

Satisfying the Soul...

Thoughts from “Soul Sistah”

My dance career has existed in two worlds. Classical Dance and Street Dance.

Airplanes have taken me and my luggage to two different coasts. The East Coast, and the West Coast.

I sang the same song in both stories when I was at the point where I was trying to “find myself”. The lyrics went something like:

“Where do I fit in?”

“Where will people accept me for me?”

“Am I good enough to be here?”

“This isn’t working out, let me try something else...”

“I think I deserve to be here, but what do others think?”

But through growth, experience, and TONS of reading, I realized that it didn’t matter what city I was in, or what style I was doing. My location and what I was doing was irrelevant, so long as the soul was being satisfied.

Me and jazz have a great time together, but locking really knows how to make me smile. Contemporary and I connect, but popping really knows my soft spots. Ballet was my first relationship, but hip hop has my heart forever. I’m a dancer period, but I gravitate to the street dances more because I have a deeper connection to them. They take me on journeys that are unexplainable. I also learned that when it comes to being on either the east coast or west coast, the location doesn’t matter. My home is purely where my heart is.

This has motivated me to inspire those all over the world. Aid them in finding those very things that make them genuinely happy, and help them discover where they feel at their absolute best! Help them to discover their element.

Through the rumblings of the Earth, I found hope, discovered faith, and found my element.

Through the rumblings of the Earth, I found what touches my soul.

Mark your calendars. You don't want to be anywhere else but at "The 5th Element" on Wednesday May 5th, 2010.

CATALYST Presents 'The 5th Element' "An insatiable journey..."

Thoughts from "Firestarter"

To the glam of Hollywood, to the street hustle of New York, to the artistic landscape of London, England, my dance career has miraculously allowed me to venture the world’s top entertainment cities. I have witnessed some of the most fascinating people, places, and things, while transforming enormously at every single moment.

Upon returning to Toronto last year, many people ask “Why did you come back?” or ‘You must miss LA.” And my answer is always the same. “I came back because I was ready to come HOME.” After searching outside of myself for so long, I realized that the real answers I needed were already inside of me. I had found my element.

For Toronto, I see the most fascinating things. I see possibility. I see incredible opportunity. I see raw talent just waiting to sprout. I see creative excitement. This is what keeps my fire burning. This is what ignites my contagious spark.

The 5th Element represents the insatiable journey that we are on every day. Each one of us has something unique to offer the world. Through this show, we have created a fresh platform for our city’s most extraordinary talent, from emerging to professional, to tell their stories and reveal their dynamic gifts. With no rules but our own, let us build together. Let us find solutions instead of problems. Let us look at our own self-reflection instead of spending precious time mirroring others.

It is my great honor to invite you in joining Catalyst and Special Guests as we entice you with our elements in hopes that you will discover yours. As Catalysts, we dance to inspire change….for ourselves, for each other, for our city, for the world…..

Mark your calendars. You don’t want to be anywhere but at “The 5 Element” on Wednesday, May 5th, 2010.

“From the rumblings of the earth, to the emotional depths of the water, to the burning passion of the fire, to the flying freedom of the air….”

Get Ready.

CATALYST teaching at DANCE-UP-A-SWEAT DANCE ATHON tomorrow! Come out and support a great cause!

Cat Jae and Cat Tash will be teaching tomorrow at the DANCE-UP-A-SWEAT DANCE A-THON

Sunday March 14th
Joy of Dance Studio
CATALYST workshop 2:30-3:10pm

All proceeds going to the Haiti Reflief. Come out, move and shake, and support a great cause!!

CATALYST Quote of the Day

"Making the Unknown KNOWN is the most important thing."

Sneak Peak at CATALYST Photoshoot

CATALYST dances at "Performers Unite for Haiti"

Catalyst was invited to dance for "Performers Unite for Haiti" and was able to share their energy, and love for dance with the crowd in support for a critical cause.  Thanks to Mikey Tsang and all the coordinators and talent who helped put this event together.  

Look out for Catalyst in the coming months as they perform and continue to inspire at other exciting events in the city!!! 

Catalyst Bootcamp Instructor HOK performs with Usher at NBA All Star Performance

CATALYST wishes you all a Happy New Year!!

CATALYST would like to wish you all a Happy New Year and all the best for 2010!! Stay locked as we bring you much more extraordinary performances, shows, bootcamps, workshops, and seminars!

Catalyst choreographs for "The Prodigy" Music Video

 

THe Prodigy, a UK-Based Electronica band, put out a competition to create a music video for their track "Run With The Wolves".  Rattail Films and Director Phillip Sportel invited Catalyst to do the choreography for the video submission showcasing their diverse artistic ability to create a dark, animalistic mood. 

The winner will be announced in February 2010. Thank you to all cast and crew. 

 

CAT JAE in NYC!!!

Cat Jae has just returned from NYC catching up with BDC,  In the Heights, The Groovaloos, and America's Best Dance Crew NYC Castings.  Shouts to the wonderful Chonique Sneed for allowing Jae to be a part of the experience,  Team Sepulveda always reppin worldwide, Steve from Blueprint for getting Canada on the map, and all the talented cast and crew.  

Keep dance alive and let's keep schooling each other on this magical art form.

  

Hot New R&B Artist Jordan Croucher's Music Video for "You Can Have It All"

Fresh off of Women in Dance, Catalyst just finished working with hot new R&B star Jordan Croucher for his new single "You Can Have It All" directed by Cazhmere. With fresh new music produced by KUYA Productions, Jordan is definitely a rising star for everyone to keep their eyes on!!! Shout outs to KUYA, Cazhmere, Hollywood, Bossy Girls, Teisha and everyone at The NE Inc. for making it great day!!

Look out for the video in early 2010!!



Jordan & Bossy Girls (The Stylists)



Choreographers Tash, Hollywood, & Jae


Rolling...


Jae getting the notes in...



Catalyst with KUYA Productions and Teisha

THE RAIN

Artist: K-OS

You say you love me, but then you turn and walk away
All for a love not even born yesterday
I see you on the streets and you just pass me by
You think I got no feelings, think I’m living high
But let me tell ya…
I could be on the TV, I could be in their magazines
But it’s never enough when you felt the touch
Of an angel that’s rocking your soul

Chorus:
When the Rain comes down
You’re never around
But when the sun comes up
You always steal the fire
And Rain comes down on this side of town
But people have no feelings
They just run around
They just…x2

We keep chasing dollars, it’s making me holler
I just don’t know
I don’t need a cheque I need some respect
So people you know
And the war, and the babies crying
And the car and the house and the rings
And the things that don’t mean nothing?

You can try to hate, classify and make you’re rate down
But I’m here to elevate, I’ll be floating in outer space now

Chorus:
When the Rain comes down
Will you be around?
When the sun comes up
Will you always steal my fire?
And Rain comes down on this side of town
But people have no feelings
People… Woo…

CATALYST IS EXPANDING!!!! COMPANY AUDITIONS!!

Due to an upcoming busy 2010 season, Catalyst is seeking more female & male dance artists for its 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 20 yrs and older, possess strong technique in their forte of dance (ballet/contemporary, latin, hip hop, street styles, jazz, and other styles welcome). 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 1 minute.


AUDITION DETAILS:

DATE: Sunday, December 6, 2009
TIME: 4:00-6:00 pm
AUDITION LOCATION: Street Dance Academy
160 Spadina Avenue, Toronto, ON


Please bring headshot and resume!!

To register or for more information, email catalyst@jlcdanceforms.com

Catalyst to perform "The Rain" at Women in Dance Showcase

Catalyst is proud to present their second piece "The Rain".

"The Rain" - The piece is a tribute to the struggle, hurt, and pain anyone has been through either with a friend, family, business, or intimate relationship. Merging styles of street dance, contemporary, and contact improv, the piece represents the struggle and demand for attention, patience, respect and unconditional love in all circumstances in any relationship.

Performance Details:
Date: Friday November 27th and Saturday November 28th
Time: 2pm and 8pm showtimes
Location: Toronto Centre for the Arts
Stage Theatre
5040 Yonge Street
Toronto, Ontario

To purchase tickets: www.ticketmaster.ca or 416-872-1111

For a full listing of all female perfomers at Women in Dance A portion of the show proceeds will be going to Rethink Breast Cancer Charity

Catalyst "The Formula" Reviewed by Dance Critic

Dance critic, Paula Citron was at "Talent Defined" this year and she just released her review of the annnual show. She highlighted a few companies that caught her eye. Catalyst was one of the companies that recieved a fantastic review.

Check out the full article, CATALYST Reviewed

Pink Bedroom Charity Photos

It's time for the Ladies to save the day!!!

CATALYST performing at Pink Bedroom Charity

CLICK on FLYER for info:

Catalyst will be one of the exciting performers at this year's Pre-Pink Bedroom Charity Event to help breast cancer. The event will be taking place poolside at the Sheraton Hotel downtown Toronto. All proceeds of the event will be going to the Princess Margaret Hospital.

Come out and enjoy the last few weeks of the summer with us! Who''s bringing their bikini??!?!

Party for a good cause! Purchase your tickets, gettickets.ca

Catalyst Summer Training Bootcamp

Catalyst Summer Training Bootcamp starts tomorrow!

Every Tuesday in July and August
Studio ElevenTwelve
1112 Dundas Street East (Carlaw and Dundas)

Tuesday July 7th 7:45pm-9:30pm.
Hip Hop Routine to "I'm still FLY" with Janet L. Castillo
Bring a loose jacket for choreography

Sign up for the SUMMER PROMOTIONAL DEAL OF ONLY $80.00 for 8 classes!!

Every Tuesday is a new style ranging from hip hop, street jazz, contemporary, ballet, and more...

Toronto's freshest, most versatile dance company accelerates and pushes your dance skills to levels you never even knew were possible.

"Create your formula" TODAY

CATALYST parties at Dundas Square for Canada Day and Michael Jackson Tribute

Catalyst celebrated our dear country in the heart of Toronto at Dundas Square yesterday.

Catalyst and friends made it through the massive crowd to get on stage, had a short media MJ trivia interview (Sarah MOONWALKED!!), boogied down to the infamous tunes, exchanged serious head nods, and proudly reached for our red and white canadian flags.

It was a good old time to say the least.

Where are we off to next?!

Catalyst Performance of "THE FORMULA" an audience FAVOURITE!!

What do you get when you mix a classical ballerina b-girl, a cool contemporary artist, a wild street jazzer, an old skool sophisticated sista, and a fiery hip-shakin flip?

Answer: "THE FORMULA"

The 5 fine ladies of Catalyst premiered "THE FORMULA" at 'Talent Defined' yesterday and they were a HIT with the audience!!

"Fresh, Disgusting, Ridiculous"

"Lots of ENERGY and looks like it would be so much fun to be a part of this company!"

"That was your FIRST performance together?!? WOW"

"Sexy, Fun, Energetic."

"CATALYST was hands down my favourite performance of the night!"

"DOPE."

Thank you to everyone that came out to watch us, to Tina and Estelle and the crew at City Dance Corps for producing the show, and to DFS Productions for originally composing our music.

Don't miss out on upcoming Catalyst Performances!!! Keep checking back for updates. These diverse and powerful ladies will be movin' and shakin' up the city in no time.


Artistic Directors: Janet L. Castillo and Natasha Powell


Core Catalyst Dancers: Tiffany Mak, Anna Bilotta, Sarah Cruickshank

CATALYST FIRST PERFORMANCE in TORONTO!!

We would like to invite you to CATALYST first dance performance in Toronto at Talent Defined on SATURDAY JUNE 27TH.

Matinee show at 2pm and Evening show at 8pm.

You can purchase tickets at www.talentdefined.com. It is an annual show which features several upcoming and professional dance companies in the city. Support your Toronto Talent!!!

We have been working hard to put our first piece together entitled "The Formula". The pieces introduces the 5 fine Catalyst ladies that represent several layers of what it means to be a woman. Through strength, control, and grace, the piece takes you on a journey and showcases styles in contemporary, hip hop, jazz, ballet, b-girl. The music is originally composed by DFS Productions.

Get your tickets TODAY!!

COMPANY AUDITIONS!! LAST CALL!!!

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!

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.

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!!!

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!!!

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!

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.

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

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.

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

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!!

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 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!!”