Bato yo Libéte Celebrates Haitian History

Vanesa G. R. Montoya. Photo by John Hall

Vanesa G.R. Montoya, a soloist with Les Grands Ballets, took time away from the company’s hectic summer touring schedule to choreograph Bato yo Libéte (Boat to Freedom) for eight of her colleagues. Montoya, however, had to step in to perform her piece because a week before opening, one of her dancers twisted her ankle, and she was the only one who could replace the injured performer at the last minute.

Of African and Spanish origin, Montoya has created a work with a theme is close to her heart. “It’s about Haitian history and about how a nation of slaves became a republic. It’s a journey of a nation in 13 minutes!” she says, slightly out of breath after a run through at the company’s headquarters.

Choreographed for four couples, Bato yo Libéte has a joyful, organic feel that blends classical lines with African ones and is set to the smooth, passionate vocals of Moonlight Benjamin. “I don’t really speak Creole, but you feel the emotion,” Montoya says.

Montoya, already dancing in two of her colleagues’ works, is part of the À Suivre Choreography Workshop 2012, a special summer event put on by dancers from Les Grands Ballets. The evening is a great way to discover high-caliber, fresh, choreographic visions by the performers, who take part in each other’s pieces and do everything from producing to handling PR for the show, which includes 14 shorts exploring such themes as themes as the cycle of life, love and beauty in chaos. ■

The dance showcase runs Aug. 29-31, 7:30 p.m. at the Cinquième Salle (Place des Arts). Each performance is followed by an artist talkback. Tickets are free but must be picked up at 4816 Rivard. Info: (514) 849-8681, www.grandsballets.com.