|
|
TOUR 2009 After the success of its North American tour in 2006, the Association la Girandole's board of directors decided to pursue the opportunity of a first European tour for the Zéphyr troupe in collaboration with Folklore Canada International. France was selected as the destination given the strong roots it shares with Canada's French-speaking community. Zéphyr was chosen to participate in one of Europe's best known festivals: Interfolk, in Puy en Velay, for its 45th edition. In addition, Zéphyr was also invited to perform in the city of Marennes in Charente-Maritime. Firstly, between July 15 and 19 Zéphyr took part in a cultural exchange with the Association France-Canada of Charente-Maritime. The French public welcomed Zéphyr most warmly! Not only were there four days of intense activities and amazing discoveries, but Zéphyr also performed a two-hour show for the people of Marennes. This show included the second part of its recent production "Aux rythmes de nos vies", which had been presented numerous times to audiences in Edmonton. The spectators and our artists' host families were enthusiastic about and enchanted by the performance, and Zéphyr was delighted to have given it. Finally, between July 20 and 26 Zéphyr's dancers participated in the 45th edition of Interfolk du Puy en Velay in Haute-Loire, where they were privileged to represent Canada and Alberta's French-speaking population. This festival assembled troupes from Columbia, Paraguay, Reunion Island, Spain, Burundi, Czech Republic, Argentina and Belarus. It was one of the richest cultural experiences that Zéphyr's members have had! Its success on an artistic level as well as on a social level was such that precious bonds were created between the festival's dancers, musicians, volunteers, and other members. Zéphyr's artists were very pleased to share and promote French-Canadian dance and culture with our French cousins across the Atlantic! |