Christchurch-based Jolt Dance, founded in 2001 by artistic director Lyn Cotton, now comprises over 200 dancers, all of whom have intellectual disabilities, aged between 8 and 60-plus, and challenges mainstream views of the disability sector.
It’s also the only company in New Zealand to have created a dance teacher training programme for people with intellectual disabilities, through which they teach in 10 different Jolt classes a week, and workshops in mainstream schools, tertiary institutions and resthomes.
Jolt dancer and tutor Lachlan Oakes says they "empower dancers to embrace their differences and be themselves, to own the space."
Their internationally-recognised practice is continuing to gain momentum — recent highlights include a South Korea tour with Seoul-based Light Sound and Friends, where they delivered workshops, collaborated with local artists, and co-created new work through the Mixed Ability Dance Education programme.
Their collabs also span across high schools throughout the country, The World Buskers Festival, the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, and a feature at the Doc Edge Film Festival.
In Queenstown next Friday, they are holding an accessible dance workshop at Remarkables Park’s Te Atamira, from 11am, open to dancers and learners of all abilities — registration is required, by emailing programmes@teatamira.nz — in return for koha.
On Friday night, from 7pm, six of their dancers will perform Whakapapa, which explores identity, culture and ancestral connection through dance, text and film.
Co-created by the performers, and described as "one of the most powerful examples of theatrical self-expression in recent years", each piece offers a deeply personal perspective, celebrating individuality and moving beyond the labels of disability.
Cotton says they are "really excited" to bring Whakapapa to Te Atamira.
"This show means a lot to us.
"It’s been co-created with our dancers, and reflects their stories, voices and artistry.
"We find that people tend to judge others by their disabilities, so we wanted to create a show that tells individual stories.
"It feels like a true reflection of who Jolt is — the creative telling of human stories grounded in individuality, creativity and connection."
Then next Saturday, from 10.30am, they’re also hosting a free workshop for over 60s, using music and movement to foster connection, communication and creativity.
They’ll also visit Wānaka’s Mount Aspiring College, in partnership with Te Atamira and the MINT Trust, ahead of their Queenstown programme.
Te Atamira director Ruth Heath says they are thrilled to bring Jolt to Queenstown, and invite audiences into the "storytelling and energy these dancers carry".
"Whakapapa is both empowering and moving — this is a rare opportunity to experience something unique."
Tickets for Whakapapa cost $25 for adults and $15 for students, available via teatamira.nz
