Sands of time

>> Lucie Grégoire explores memory in Fragile Lumière

by MARITES CARINO

Choreographer/dancer Lucie Grégoire often draws her inspiration from literature, most notably American novelist Paul Auster, as well as her voyages to countries like Spain and Portugal. This time out, Morocco is the land that roused her choreographic talents, and the resulting dance outing is called Fragile Lumière.

 Known more for her solo performances in the early '90s and her smooth movements and transitions, Grégoire's most recent work has been two years in the making. The creation for a trio finally premieres this weekend and continues to mid-February at Agora de la Danse.

 In this delicate work, Grégoire explores the theme of memory, along with dancers Maria Kefirova and Sandra Lapierre, in an environment which echoes the desert sand, wind and light. Here, these three graceful women of different ages, and destinies, converge to the music of Robert Marcel Lepage, while bathed in light by Alain Lortie.

 "In a desert of wind, three women give themselves over to their destiny, between the desire to put down roots and the urge to travel," Grégoire describes the work. "Little by little, each allows herself to be carried away by the pleasure of dance."

 Fragile Lumière isn't only a dance show: the interdisciplinary choreography includes an exposition of new works by artist Francoise Sullivan and a "book creation" by author Denise Desautels and editor Jacques Fournier. On the evening of Thursday, Feb. 3, you'll have the opportunity to meet with these artists, share your thoughts or ask any pressing questions that you may have. And following the performance on Friday, Feb. 4, audience members are invited to participate in "Dessin en direct," where spectators can pick up their sketchbooks and join visual arts students in taking inspiration from the show and transferring it onto paper. :

 

At Agora de la danse, Feb. 3-5 and Feb. 9-12 at 8pm; tickets $12-20, for more info call 525-1500