Cameron Fraser-Monroe on Tradition, Innovation, and the Future of Ballet

Artalogue

In today’s episode, join us for an eye-opening chat with Cameron Fraser-Monroe, a trailblazing Canadian dancer and choreographer from the Tla’amin First Nation. From his early start in Ukrainian dance to his prestigious training at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School, Fraser-Monroe’s journey is nothing short of fascinating. We discuss his inspirations in dance and why he chose to prioritize dance over a potential career in mechanical engineering, getting candid about physical and time constraints in dance careers.

Fraser-Monroe has performed with many companies including Dancers of Damelahamid, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, and Atlantic Ballet Theatre of Canada from Mexico to New Zealand. As a choreographer Fraser-Monroe has received commissions from the National Ballet of Canada, Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Whim W’Him Seattle, Ballet Kelowna, the Winnipeg Summer Dance Collective, Artist's Climate Collective, Transformation Cabaret at the Cultch, and both PULSE and Indigenous Day Live! on APTN. For the past five years Fraser-Monroe has served as Artistic Director of the Winnipeg Summer Dance Collective, making dance more accessible in downtown Winnipeg. In 2023/24, he is the Choreographer in Residence at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, their first in 20 years.

Learn more about ballet production with us as Fraser-Monroe takes us through the creation of one of his more recent works, "T'əl: The Wild Man of the Woods”performed by the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. Discover the intricate process from commission to premiere, involving rich imagery, extensive physical research, and the innovative inclusion of a narrator to tell the story in both Ayajuthem and English. Fraser-Monroe tells us more about how this unique choice underscores the importance of authentic oral history within Indigenous storytelling as well as engaging audiences on a deeper level.
Looking ahead, Cameron shares his vision for the future of ballet in Canada, emphasizing the need for greater diversity and originality. He passionately discusses his upcoming projects, including a fundraiser in the Tla'aman Nation and his upcoming artistic endeavours. Cameron’s commitment to meaningful community engagement and his advice for aspiring dancers—to seek inspiration beyond dance—highlight his dedication to creating a more inclusive, innovative and exciting ballet scene.

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Madison Beale, Host
Croocial, Production
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Chapter

1. Dancer and Choreographer Cameron Fraser-Monroe (00:00:00)

2. The Process of Ballet Production (00:14:25)

3. The Future of Ballet in Canada (00:22:44)

4. Future Projects and Community Engagement (00:28:06)