The Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre presents as its next 2023-24 SPOTLIGHT Dance Series performance, X (DIX) by Côte Dansé, on Wednesday, March 27.

Inspired by the myth of Odysseus, X (DIX) portrays the challenges of venturing far but always desiring to return home. Guillaume Côté, principal dancer and choreographic associate at The National Ballet of Canada, blends classical ballet vocabulary with contemporary forms to bring this legendary tale on stage.

X (DIX) explores Homer’s idea of the “inner compass” and that “home” may only be a state of mind. Symbolizing completeness, finality, and perfection, the number ten (“dix”) is associated with the beginning of the cycle of life and the inevitable transformations it entails. Conceived during the transformative time of the pandemic, this performance reflects a time when travellers were summoned home, and the very concept of “home” gained new importance.

A gifted ensemble of Toronto dance artists, including Natasha Poon Woo, Martha Hart, Kelly Shaw, Willem Sadler and Evan Webb, share a minimalist stage setting amplified by the surging and sculptural sounds of American experimental band Son Lux, best known for scoring the 2023 Best Picture Oscar-winning film Everything Everywhere All at Once.

Guillaume Côté’s choreography contours space with resonant geometries and intense human connections. Contemporary lines and forms with a sleek edge and refined athleticism make his work incredibly stirring.

“We are thrilled to bring this world-class dance company to our community for the first time,” says VDPAC Artistic Director Erin Kennedy.

Internationally acclaimed choreographer Guillaume Côté, a native of Lac-Saint-Jean, Québec, is hailed as one of the finest male dancers in the world. As principal dancer of the National Ballet of Canada, he has danced major classical roles and worked closely with dance icons such as Roland Petit, John Neumeier, William Forsythe, and Crystal Pite. He has received numerous awards and recognitions, including the médaille de l’Assemblée nationale du Québec. He was also awarded Chevalier de l’Ordre national du Québec, the highest distinction by the Quebec government.

“I am absolutely thrilled that Côté Danse is heading to Vernon for our first west coast tour, featuring our captivating work X (DIX),” says Côté. “With an incredible cast and this physical contemporary dance work, we cannot wait to share this production with the audience, all accompanied by the electronic music of Son Lux. This tour is a dream realized, and we are beyond excited to showcase Côté Danse in the stunning province of British Columbia.”

Côté Danse was founded by Côté with a mission to create and present original dance works and experiences. Collaborating with diverse designers, artists and partners, the company aims to foster a new generation of dance and theatregoers.

Carrying forward Côté Danse’s commitment to performance excellence, X (DIX) has been performed all across the country over the last year. The show premiered at the Festival des Arts de Saint-Sauveur and then went on to be performed in 13 cities including New York City and Toronto. This year, it embarks on a tour across BC and Ontario, making a performance in Vernon as part of this Canadian tour.