Blending the comical qualities of a Charlie Chaplin with the mime techniques of a Marcel Marceau and the smooth moves of a Michael Jackson, Dianna David’s movement/storytelling act and workshop will surprise and engage all ages: kids, youth, adults and “mature” adults at the Quadra Community Centre on Sunday, Feb. 24 at 2:30 p.m.
The afternoon full of magical fantasy will include two distinct parts: a 45-minute performance as David presents one of her characters, “Meena Myna the Mime Magician,” a charming and dazzling display of her fascinating ability to move like a panther as she controls props and tells story through mime. Then, following a short intermission, David will put on a 60-minute fun workshop which will include mime, dance and contact juggling, no experience required.
This hour is open to any interested audience members. An area of the floor will be cleared space provided for participation or chairs for watching. Lots of interest from young people is expected.
Born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta, this first generation Filipino-Canadian started her performing career at the early age of six years as an incredibly gifted dancer. Fusing her love of dance with her cultural heritage, David has been actively involved for 20 years as a performer, choreographer and artistic director for the dance group The Philippine Barangay Performing Arts Society.
David’s career path has had its share of twists, turns and surprises. Graduating from the University of Alberta in 2000 with a BSc. in Mechanical Engineering, she landed an engineering job in San Francisco, where she encountered the Bay Area’s finest Hip Hop dance groups and theatre companies. In her spare time, she performed in several dance/theatre productions, acted in a full length movie and played the lead role in the stage show, “Rocket Girl” for the Thunderbird Theatre Company of San Francisco.
David decided to pursue her theatrical career in 2003, attending the Clown Conservatory at San Francisco Circus Center under the direction of world renowned Jeff Raz. She then studied physical theatre at the School of Physical Theatre with Ron East in London, England.
David’s message is one of tolerance of differences and acceptance of others. Interested in sharing her love of artistic expression, she started a group called “Expressive Devotion” aimed at reaching out to the youth community by empowering them through dynamic workshops in order to help them find their own artistic vision.
During the 2010 Olympics, David and her creative partner Charity Zapanta produced a festival called “I Heart Van Art,” to bring together other artists and celebrate the city.
David’s talent was noticed and she received a grant to create her present movement/storytelling acts which she has been touring to schools around BC for the last several years.
Thanks to the sponsorship of a generous community member, Quadra Cultural Committee will offer this performance to families “by donation.” Single adult tickets will be $10 at the door. For more information, call 250-285-3560.
