Artistic Director: Alexandra Damiani

Dance Me - Music by Leonard Cohen

Founded in 1972 in Montréal, Ballets Jazz Montréal is renowned for the excellence of their dancers and their collaboration with some of the most unique voices in contemporary dance. All BJM dances bring an element of humanity, fearlessness, and emotion to the intense technical skill that each work requires. Dance Me is a full evening work inspired by the profound artistry of Québécois musician Leonard Cohen (1934-2016). Dance Me - Music by Leonard Cohen —co-choreographed by Andonis Foniadakis, Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, and Ihsan Rustem— combines Cohen’s music with vivid lighting design and videography for an unforgettable experience.

What you'll see on stage:

Dance Me is a full-length multimedia performance that interprets the music and poetry of Leonard Cohen through contemporary ballet. Featuring vignettes by three distinguished choreographers—Andonis Foniadakis, Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, and Ihsan Rustem—the work explores themes of love, loss, longing, and light, unfolding through a series of cinematic scenes. Costuming in classic dark suits and fedoras nods to Cohen’s iconic, understated elegance. Props such as microphones, desk lamps, and suitcases reference his identity as a performer, writer, and traveler—symbols of intimacy, reflection, and transience found throughout his lyrics. Presented without intermission, the performance is set entirely to Cohen’s recorded songs and spoken word, enhanced by shadow play, stark lighting, and projections that echo his poetic and spiritual sensibilities. 

Know before you go:

• Venue: Keller Auditorium

• Please Note: This performance includes flashing lights, fog, water-based haze, and loud music.

If you like:

• Sydney Dance Company

• Leonard Cohen

• Folk Music

• Poetry