BAM Returns to Live, In-Person Performance with the New York Premiere of INFLUENCES

Influences is a unique work of choreographed movement on ice that explores human interconnectivity and the relationship between a group and its individuals. The engagement marks Le Patin Libre's BAM debut.

Observations on leadership, power, individualism, love, bullying, and rivalry are revealed throughout this thrilling rhythmic work, which heightens the relationship between performers and spectators by seating the audience directly on the ice. This arrangement offers an intense and intimate look at the piece's intersection of virtuosity, velocity, and artistry.

For more information visit: https://www.bam.org/

LeFrak Center at Lakeside, Prospect Park (171 East Dr., Brooklyn)

Apr 6-10 at 8pm; Apr 10-11 at 2pm

Tickets: single, $45, pair, $90

Ages: 5+

About the company:

Le Patin Libre (French for "Free Skate") is a contemporary ice skating company that uses ice, skates, and glide as mediums of storytelling. Founded in 2005, Le Patin Libre is a premier international touring company under the artistic vision of Alexandre Hamel, activating skating rinks globally as a place where diverse audiences can gather and discover a new art form. Committed to designing inclusive events, the company uses ice skating as an entry point to the arts as well as a way to create unforgettable experiences for audiences of all ages. What began as spontaneous demonstrations on frozen ponds, Le Patin Libre was created by former high-level figure skaters with the intention of transforming their athleticism into a means of free expression and an elevated theatrical art form. In addition to extensive touring throughout North America and France, the company has previously performed at Sadlers Wells, Dance Umbrella Festival London, and Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

About the artists:

Alexandre Hamel

Founder / artistic director / choreographer / skating-artist

Alexandre Hamel was first trained as a traditional figure skater. He competed on the international circuit, has appeared on the Canadian championships podium, and earned various champion titles. He also skated professionally for Disney On Ice. Hamel founded Le Patin Libre in 2005, desiring to use his passion for skating outside the constraints of competition and commercial programs. He oversees the company while staying as involved as always with performance and creation. He is committed to the importance of sharing contemporary performing arts with larger audiences. Le Patin Libre engages in cultural mediation and education efforts, as well as creating accessible community projects. Hamel is also an award-winning documentary filmmaker.

Pascale Jodoin

Co-director / choreographer / skating-artist

Pascale Jodoin's technique and free-spirited approach evolves beyond the rigidity imposed by her traditional figure skating training. She joined Le Patin Libre in 2009 after seeing a performance, auditioning, participating in workshops offered by the founding artists, and dancing in underground ice parties organized by the collective. Beyond Jodoin's role as a creator and a performer, she manages a large part of the company's activities. Prior to Le Patin Libre, she ran a small jewelry business and was a circus performer in Montreal.

Jasmin Boivin

Composer / musical director / choreographer / skating-artist

Jasmin Boivin is the only skating-artist of the company who was not previously a figure skater and he first joined the company as a technician. Boivin is a classical cellist and an electro-acoustic composer, who composes many of the soundtracks for the company's performances. In 2011, during a creative residency with the company, he started to develop his own ice-dancing style, combining his skills as an amateur hockey player and his interest in social and urban dances. He's now fully integrated to the performance and creation team while acting as musical director.

Samory Ba

Choreographer / skating-artist

Samory Ba is the only member of our company who is not Canadian. He was born in France, near Paris, and trained there as a traditional figure skater. After performing for various ice shows, including Holiday On Ice, he quit this industry and a well-paid position to join the Le Patin Libre collective when it was still in its early stages. Ba is a crucial to choreographing and conceptualizing works for the team. He also is responsible for organizing and managing the company's European tours.

Taylor Dilley

Choreographer / skating-artist

Taylor Dilley was trained as an ice dancer and competed nationally in Canada. He has worked professionally as an ice-dance partner with amateur woman figure skaters. Dilley joined Le Patin Libre in 2011 after he travelled to France where the collective was involved in a creative residency. In his youth, he was also a junior Kung-Fu world champion and his passion for martial arts influences his skating style and choreography. Dilley he also serves as the company's logistics manager.

To post a comment, you must register and login.