cor et mentem...A story about trauma recovery, written and arranged by Artistic Director, Cass Bessette.

“I survived because the fire that burned inside of me burned brighter than the fire around me.”

- Unknown

This will be a multidisciplinary show that tells the story of a young person as they recover from early childhood trauma. Through the captivating mediums of choral music and contemporary dance, audiences are drawn into the intricate narrative of "Cor" and "Mentem" – characters representing the fractured heart and mind of our protagonist – following a harrowing trauma. As the story unfolds, we witness the poignant struggle of these two characters as they navigate their alienation from one another, embarking on a courageous journey towards rediscovery.

Amidst the darkness, cor et mentem... beautifully illustrates the resilience of the human spirit. It is not only a story of survival, but one of triumph. In a world where stories that begin and end in tragedy often dominate, this show offers a refreshing perspective, highlighting the enduring power of healing and a transformative journey towards wholeness.

Featuring dancers: Lane Sayer & Jo Dickau-Duguay

Poetry by: Robert Lowell, Sara Teasdale, and Cass Bessette

THERE ARE TWO SHOW TIMES

For tickets click here.

Please note that one piece in this concert, "furore" (the 5th piece) depicts physical and/or sexual violence, and includes sounds such as grunting, gasping, crying, laughter, a scream, and other noises which may be triggering. OVC is committed to the safety of our audience members, performers and support individuals, and there will be an opportunity to leave for the duration of the piece and rejoin after.

About Jo Dickau-Duguay is an emerging artist from Mohkinstsis. They

are currently in their second year in the Bachelor of Fine Arts

program in dance at the University of Calgary. In their artistic

work, Jo has an interest in creating diverse emotional landscapes

through which they tell stories that many can find relation to.

About Lane Sayer is an emerging artist from Mohkinstsis, currently

pursuing a BA in English from the University of Calgary with a

minor in dance. His areas of interest include contemporary dance

and creative writing, and he hopes to continue exploring

interdisciplinary approaches to the arts.