Announcing Our 2026 Artist-in-Residence: Watching the Detectives

Watching the Detectives, One of Us is a Ghost, Groundwork 2026

Today, on International Dance Day, we are proud to announce Watching the Detectives as Untellable Movement Theatre’s 2026 Artist-in-Residence.

Watching the Detectives is the collaborative work of Jaimie Tait and Philip Goodridge, two artists whose shared practice is rooted in a deep commitment to ensemble creation. Their work is grounded in Viewpoints, a movement practice that explores time, space, and relationship, and invites both performers and audiences into a shared experience of discovery.

Anne Bogart and Tina Landau’s Viewpoints methodology has been a central catalyst in their process, offering a structure that is both rigorous and open. Through this work, Jaimie and Philip have developed a collaborative language that prioritizes responsiveness, interpretation, and meaning-making in real time.

Their practice resonates strongly with Untellable’s own approach. There is a shared belief that the work emerges through the room, through the relationships, and through the willingness to remain open to what unfolds.

Watching the Detectives, Cameo, February 2026

The Work: Here/There/Together

As part of their residency, Watching the Detectives will be developing a new project, Here/There/Together (working title).

This work explores the transient nature of connection. As artists, collaborators, and people, we move in and out of each other’s lives. Sometimes relationships become lasting structures. Sometimes they are brief, but no less meaningful. This project sits inside that tension.

The creation process will unfold across distance and time. Jaimie and Philip will spend part of the summer working separately, using shared soundscapes and Viewpoints-based improvisation to generate material in different locations. Their work will diverge and align in unexpected ways. Midway through the process, they will reunite for site-specific exploration, before coming back together in the fall to review, refine, and shape the work into its final form.

The final outcome may take multiple forms. It may exist as a live performance, a film, or a hybrid of both. The form will be guided by the process itself.

Watching the Detectives, The Station Workshop, Untellable’s Movement Theatre Incubator, February 2026

Public Workshops: Viewpoints in Practice

As part of their residency, Watching the Detectives will offer public workshops in Viewpoints in Fall 2026.

These sessions will be open to artists and community members who are interested in exploring movement, composition, and ensemble work in a structured but accessible way. Viewpoints offers a practical entry point into improvisation and creation, and it aligns closely with Untellable’s commitment to making dance and movement practices accessible to a broad range of participants.

More details on dates and registration will be shared in the coming months.

About the Artist Residency Program

Untellable Movement Theatre’s Artist Residency Program is designed to support artists in developing new work while remaining connected to community.

The program offers:

• Time and space for creation

• Mentorship and artistic support

• Opportunities for public engagement

• A framework that prioritizes process

Residencies are intentionally flexible. We support artists in working in ways that make sense for their practice, whether that involves live performance, digital creation, site-specific work, or interdisciplinary approaches.

You can learn more about the program here:
https://www.untellable.ca/artist-residency-program

We are thrilled to support Watching the Detectives over the coming year and to share their work with our community.

It could always be like this.

- Untellable Movement Theatre

Groundwork 2026: A Celebration

Sai Nrityadhee School of Bharatnatyam

Groundwork Dance Festival 2026 has come to a close.

Across one weekend, we shared:

• 23 performances

• 97 performers

• Ages ranging from 7 to 80

• 3 workshops

• 1 panel discussion

But the numbers only tell part of the story.

What unfolded at Groundwork was a space where artists at every stage of their practice could step forward, take risks, and be met with generosity. It was a room where emerging and established voices coexisted, and where the audience showed up with openness and enthusiasm.

Self-Producing Panel

What We Saw

We saw first performances and seasoned artists returning to the stage.
We saw a wide range of cultural forms, movement practices, and creative approaches.
We saw young dancers sharing the stage with elders.
We saw people supporting one another, not just their own work.

“My experience at Groundwork was truly incredible… everything flowed smoothly, allowing us to fully focus on our performance.”

“I loved not knowing who was performing… there were children… while the oldest performer was close to 80.”

Kittiwake Ballet

What We Felt

There was a consistent thread across the weekend: people felt safe to show up fully.

“It felt open, generous, and refreshingly low-pressure… a healthy arts ecology depends on many voices being visible at once.”
— Andrea Tucker

“I felt completely trusted, accepted, and included… I felt safe pushing my creative boundaries.”
— Kelly Jane Bruton

“To be able to immerse myself… without fear that I don’t belong… this has completely inspired me.”
— Jaimie Tait

This is the work.

Togethering Workshop with Robyn Breen

Why It Matters

Groundwork exists because there is a need for space. Space to try. Space to share. Space to witness.

“Opportunities like Groundwork are invaluable… they create a space for artists to express themselves, gain visibility, and connect with the community.”

Watching the Detectives

Looking Ahead

Planning for Groundwork 2027 is already underway.

The goal remains the same: to hold a space that is artist-driven, accessible, and rooted in community.

To everyone who performed, taught, attended, volunteered, and supported this work: thank you.

This only exists because you showed up.

Groundwork is a partnership between Untellable Movement Theatre and Cameo and is artistically directed and produced by Andrya Duff and Lynn Panting.

Groundwork Dance Festival: There Is Room for All

A Different Starting Point

Groundwork is a two-day festival of dance and movement-based performance, produced by Untellable Movement Theatre and Cameo Series.

It’s built on an ethically non-curated model.

Which means artists are not ranked, filtered, or shaped by a single curatorial lens. Instead, they are invited to share space.

This is a deliberate choice.

Because we believe a thriving dance ecology requires many voices, a full range of artists working, questioning, experimenting, and building in real time.

There is room for all.

What the Festival Holds

Groundwork takes place April 11–12 at LSPU Hall.

Across the weekend, audiences can experience:

• Live performances

• Workshops

• Opportunities to connect with artists and each other

A Living Dance Ecology

At its core, Groundwork is about visibility.

By bringing artists and audiences together in one place, the festival offers a snapshot of the movement practices shaping this province right now.

It allows audiences to:

• Experience a wide range of work in one weekend

• Engage with dance in a direct, accessible way

• See process, not just product

And it allows artists to:

• Share work

• Be part of a larger community of practice

• Contribute to a shared cultural moment

Where It Comes From

Groundwork is produced in partnership with Cameo, a quarterly series created in April 2024.

Cameo was designed to offer movement artists something simple and necessary: a place to show work without financial risk or the expectation of a finished product.

Similar to an open mic or a public reading, it centres the act of sharing.

Groundwork expands that idea.

It brings that same ethos into a larger, concentrated gathering—two days of movement, connection, and exchange.

The Work Ahead

At Untellable, we are interested in how dance lives in the world.

Through performances, residencies, and festivals like Groundwork, we are working toward a dance ecology that is sustainable and connected.

This festival is one piece of that work.

Groundwork Dance Festival takes place April 11–12 at LSPU Hall.

Festival passes and individual tickets are available.

We’d love to have you in the room.

Call for Expressions of Interest: Groundwork Dance Festival

Groundwork Dance Festival

Call for Expressions of Interest

Untellable Movement Theatre and Cameo are inviting expressions of interest from dance and movement artists for Groundwork Dance Festival, a new two-day festival taking place April 11–12, 2026 in St. John’s, NL.

Groundwork Dance Festival is an ethically non-curated, participation-based festival rooted in equity of access and trust in artists. Programming is first come, first programmed. We aim to include as many dance and movement artists as possible within the festival structure.

Groundwork offers two performance formats:

• Five-minute works (20 slots available)
  These works can be at any stage of development.

• Longer-format works (up to 6 slots available)
  These works should be further along in development or complete, and may be 10–30 minutes in length. While our initial plan was for 20-minute works, we recognize that artists are at different stages and welcome flexibility within this range.

Untellable’s Guide to Watching Dance

There is no single way to watch.

You are invited to notice what you notice.

Whatever you find is what’s meant for you.

Dance does not require specialized knowledge, technical vocabulary, or a “correct” interpretation. Your experience is enough.

Watching Dance Is Not a Test

You are not expected to understand everything, follow a narrative, or identify specific techniques. Some moments may feel clear; others may feel abstract or unresolved. All of that is part of the experience.

You might find yourself:

• Drawn to a particular performer or image

• Noticing rhythm or breath,

• Observing repetition, or stillness

• Feeling something before you can explain it

• Losing focus and finding it again

All of these responses are valid.

Let Your Attention Be Curious

Rather than asking “What does this mean?”, you might try:

• What am I noticing right now?

• What’s repeating?

• What’s changing?

• How does this make me feel?

• What images or ideas are sticking with me?

There is no pressure to arrive at a conclusion. Dance can be something you sit with, rather than solve.

You Bring Your Own Context

Your life, your memories, your mood that day, all of it comes with you into the space. Two people can watch the same work and have entirely different experiences, and both are true.

After the Performance

You don’t need to articulate your experience perfectly. “I don’t know how I feel about it yet” is a complete and thoughtful response. So is joy, confusion, discomfort, or delight.

If you choose to talk about the work, we encourage curiosity over certainty.

Save the Date: April 11–12, 2026

Something new is taking shape this spring.

Cameo and Untellable Movement Theatre are partnering on a new two-day dance festival, taking place on April 11th and 12th.

Groundwork Dance Festival brings artists and audiences together to share work, gather, learn, and experience dance in a professional and supportive environment.

This project grew out of ongoing conversations about opportunity and about what dancers need in order to show work, build momentum, and be seen.

It’s also about audiences: creating space to encounter dance more often, in more ways, and without needing to already “know” it.

Across two days, the festival will include shared movement experiences, artist-led learning opportunities, and evening performances featuring both short-form and longer works.

More details will be shared soon, including calls for Expressions of Interest for artists interested in participating.

The Little Picture: A Reflection from Kevin Woolridge Shared at our 2025 AGM

Like many artists and arts organizations, Untellable Movement Theatre finds itself in a season of contraction. While moments like this can easily be framed as loss or failure, we are choosing to see them instead as an invitation. An invitation to pay closer attention to what truly sustains the work.

Each year at our AGM, we invite the artists we’ve worked with to speak directly with our board and community about the impact of their experiences, both professionally and personally. Again and again, we’re reminded that it is often the small connections and the moments of care that leave the deepest mark.

We also take time to name what we are grateful for from the year past and to offer wishes for what lies ahead. Some years, our gratitude centres on large-scale projects and our hopes reach toward long-term legacies. Other years, like this one, we are reminded not to overlook the power of the small: steady relationships, meaningful conversations, and the simple fact of continuing to gather, listen, and make work together.

Kevin Woolridge, founding member and chair, perfectly encapsulates this in his opening address.

Welcome Address by Kevin Woolridge (Chair)

“It is easy when thinking of art to get lost in the philosophy and the big picture. Why do we create? Why do we share? Why do we seek it out? We talk about empathy and connection. We talk about looking inwards and outwards. We talk about our place in the world, and the meaning of it all.

But tonight, I’d like to share a gentle reminder, even in this time of uncertainty and change, to not forget about the little picture and the little reasons. Sometimes we just need a moment of beauty. Sometimes we just need to smile, or laugh, or cry. Or to take an opportunity to breathe and enjoy a second of peace and quiet. Sometimes we need to be able to forget, so that when we are ready, we can remember again. Refreshed and open.

It’s a small little thing that I think is at the core of everything we do in the arts. It is easily overlooked but is absolutely essential. I wish for all of us moving forward this year that we remember that.”

— Kevin Woolridge
Chair, Untellable Movement Theatre

As we navigate this quieter season, Untellable remains committed to creating space for movement, collaboration, and care. The little picture, the human moments that connect us, will continue to guide everything we do.

Close Up: New Work in Progress

Close Up: New Work in Progress Sunday, December 14 at 2 PM
Barbara Barrett Theatre

Close Up debuts at the Barbara Barrett Theatre with a fresh lineup of new creations from local choreographers. An evolution of Andrya Duff’s Cameo series, this platform offers artists the space to share works-in-progress, experiment publicly, and open up their creative process to audiences.

This edition features new work by:

• Andrya Duff (with an original sound score by Chris Cole)

• Robyn Breen

• Watching the Detectives (Philip Goodridge and Jaimie Tait, directed by Lynn Panting: part of Untellable Movement Theatre’s Incubator Series)

Performances by Philip Goodridge, Vanessa Cardoso-Whelan, Sophie Lawson, Missy Morris, Robyn Noftall, Jaimie Tait, and Andrea Tucker

Tickets: $10 (sliding scale available)
Venue: Arts & Culture Centre – Barbara Barrett Theatre
Box Office: 709-729-3900 | sjboxoffice@artsandculturecentre.com
Show Time: 2:00 p.m.
Length: 1 hour
Recommended Audience: All Ages

More information:
https://www.artsandculturecentre.com/stjohns/Online/default.asp

Catching Up with Andrya Duff and Cameo

Cameo West

We’re catching up with Andrya Duff, Untellable’s 2025 Artist-in-Residence, as she and her remarkable project, Cameo, head out to the West Coast.

Thanks to a residency with Rotary Arts Centre in Corner Brook, Andrya will offer CAMEO’s signature performance opportunity plus workshops with Robyn Breen and Missy Morris.

Artist-in-Residence

Andrya was our singular choice for this year’s residency because of the deep alignment between Cameo’s values and our own. Cameo’s barrier-free, welcoming approach to dance and movement is both inclusive and inventive, inviting participants of all abilities to explore creative expression in a supportive, non-judgmental space.

What is Cameo?

Cameo is a quarterly series that prioritizes movement-based work. Since beginning in April 2024, Cameo has brought together over 17 local creators and 30 local dancers across 14 genres. Similar to an open mic for comedians and musicians or a public reading for playwrights, Cameo gives movement creators an ongoing opportunity to showcase ideas without the burden of financial risk or pressure to perform a completed project. This series centres the artists and welcomes audiences to engage with movement-based work at every stage of creation.

Untellable has been proud to support Andrya and Cameo through studio space, mentorship, and honorariums, helping sustain the program’s growth and reach.

This past season has been exceptional. Cameo was featured in the Festival of New Dance, produced by Neighbourhood Dance Works, and is now expanding to the Rotary Arts Centre in Corner Brook.

Andrya shared:

“I’m madly in love with all those who have shown this series so much care — performers, creators, audiences, photographers, ushers, stage manager, techs, and administrators. With this resource, I can give a little more to those who have graced me with a dream realized. Thank you.”

As Cameo continues to evolve, we’re inspired by how Andrya’s leadership and vision are reshaping what community dance can look like across Newfoundland and Labrador. Her work reminds us that movement is for everyone — and that when we create with care, everyone belongs in the story.

What Untellable Means to Us

Eli and the Death Curse, Untellable 2023

Our work lives in the space between art forms: between dance and theatre, between what is seen and what is felt. But it’s our artists who give that space meaning. Their courage, curiosity, and care shape every story we tell.

We asked some of our collaborators to share what Untellable has meant to them: how movement, mentorship, and community have influenced their journeys. Their words remind us why we do what we do and how powerful it can be when artists are given the freedom to explore, fail, and grow together.

Owen Carter and Andrea Duff in rehearsal for Eli and the Death Curse, 2023. Owen served as a swing for the production, helping to maintain continuity and protect the piece throughout the rehearsal and performance process. Owen is a Mayflies Digital artist, a writer for Mayflies VR, and is part of Untellable’s Movement Theatre Incubator with their play Puppy Teeth.

Artist Reflections

Owen Carter, Performer, Writer

“What is so distinct about Untellable Movement Theatre is the way they are able to provide support and break down barriers for emerging movement artists and bridge the gap between movement and theatre.

I had never thought of myself as a mover until I began working with Untellable. Their guidance allowed me to discover story through movement, to feel what it means to embody narrative…. Without Untellable’s support as an early-career artist, I wouldn’t be here, backstage at the National Theatre School, preparing for a movement-heavy piece that reflects the training and confidence I gained through them.

All of the tools Untellable gave me as a performer and writer have led me to where I am in my career now, and continue to inspire what comes next.”

Philip Goodridge and Jaimie Tait performing an excerpt from The Station at Cameo Festival of New Dance 2025. The Station is a devised movement theatre work developed through Untellable’s Movement Theatre Incubator. Phil wrote and performed in Eli and the Death Curse 2023, produced by Untellable.

Artist Reflections

Philip Goodridge, Performer, Writer, Producer

“Untellable produces incredibly varied and thoughtful work while reaching across our community to support creators across disciplines, mediums, and skill levels. The reach is broad, but the focus is clear: supporting new ways to tell stories.

Untellable’s focus on creation and storytelling is crucial to our community development and identity. This company is a very precious thing and this kind of work is at the heart of any great community.”

Mark White on location in La Manche during the filming of Mayflies VR. Mark was one of Untellable’s founding board members and has been deeply involved across multiple projects, including Mayflies Digital, Mayflies VR, and the Movement Theatre Incubator.

Artist Reflections

Mark White, Architect & Independent Theatre Artist

“Untellable creates a ‘give-give’ atmosphere: supportive, encouraging, receptive, and challenging. I’ve been allowed to explore my craft through new works by emerging playwrights and have been tasked with experimenting and being vulnerable in safe, kind spaces.

When I think of scripts and ideas I have in development, there’s no other company I’d rather bring on board. Untellable embodies what makes theatre and performance so rich, its ethos of show, don’t tell has become a staple mantra in my own practice.”

Loves Labour’s Lost, SBTS 2025

Jaimie Tait worked as the Assistant Director of this production through the Movement Theatre Incubator and is currently in development as creator and performer of The Station, part of the Movement Theatre Incubator

Artist Reflections

Jaimie Tait, Independent Theatre Artist

“Untellable is the only truly multidisciplinary company in Newfoundland creating and reimagining work through theatre, dance, and movement in unconventional spaces.

Being welcomed back into the creative process after nineteen years away has been a dream come true. Untellable’s mentorship gave me confidence, a renewed sense of artistic purpose, and the chance to lead. The community is open, inclusive… artists of all kinds are encouraged to explore and take risks.

Untellable has made it possible for me to return to performing and directing with joy, curiosity, and a sense of belonging.”

Shakespeare and Movement: Q&A with Shakespeare By The Sea’s, Sharon King-Campbell

Loves Labour’s Lost, SBTS 2025

Sharon King-Campbell is a celebrated theatre artist and the Artistic Director of Shakespeare by the Sea. This season, Sharon spearheaded a partnership with Untellable Movement Theatre through the Incubator program, introducing company-wide movement literacy workshops and supporting the hiring of Assistant Director Jaimie Tait on Love’s Labour’s Lost, directed by Lynn Panting.

Sharon King-Campbell, Artistic Director, Shakespeare by the Sea

In this Q&A, we speak with Sharon about her vision for the company, the role of movement in classical and contemporary performance, and why this kind of development work is so vital to Shakespeare by the Sea.

Q: Tell us about Shakespeare by the Sea and your role with the company.

Shakespeare by the Sea Festival is the longest-running outdoor theatre festival in the region. We have a focus on the works of William Shakespeare, of course, but we also develop and produce new works. We serve a vital role in the theatre ecosystem, in that we team up artists across generations and at all stages of development. Our vision is that everyone - yes, everyone! - have the opportunity to engage with and enjoy the work we do. As Artistic Director, my job is to dream big, come up with a plan for each season, and then work as part of a team to make it all happen.

Q: Why movement? Why now?

Theatre is inherently movement-driven. The primary, least-optional component of theatrical performance is the body/bodies of the performer/s. So some basis in movement, some shared vocabulary in that area, is important to the work that we do. And I think we are still feeling the effects of the pandemic, both artistically and socially, in that we have moved a lot of our time and consciousness into a digital space where we are quite literally disembodied. So prioritizing movement work has never been more important. We have to re-embody our own selves before we can embody our characters.

Q: How does movement intersect with Shakespeare’s text for you?

Historically, Shakespeare's plays were performed in conditions that would be considered extremely hostile today: chattering audiences, sales and trade happening in the same space, loud heckling... all of that would have been normal, and the actors would have had to use every tool in their toolkit to capture and retain whatever attention they could get. Shakespeare's characters, especially in his comedies, were founded on archetypes from Commedia dell'Arte, which is a style of improvised clowning based on commonly-known postures, voices, and costumes, and it's reasonable to think that in many cases, the actors working on the premiere productions would have used that style of movement freely. So there's that connection, and now, in the 21st century, it's hard to imagine performing Shakespeare without substantial movement, even if it isn't drawn from the same sources. The Big, Over The Top characters remain, and they need to move to come to life.

Q: What excites you most about the Movement Theatre Incubator program?

When Lynn and I were dreaming up our partnership for this summer, she used the phrase "movement literacy," and I think that's great. This program spreads and improves movement literacy. The idea of going into a process knowing that there is a shared vocabulary and a shared understanding of the importance of movement - that's very exciting. I love to watch work that begins with movement - that's not my exact bag as an artist, but I always enjoy it as a spectator - and I do know how important movement, or "body-first" work, has been to me as a performer, and how easily it integrates into any theatre-making process. Once you've incorporated that work, it starts to become impossible to imagine doing any theatrical work without a strong movement component.

Q: Why does this kind of development work matter for a company like yours?

Because of our position in this industry as a gateway, we have always prioritized professional development, especially for performers. Movement is a fundamental component of performance, and it seemed like the ideal fit to offer it as PD alongside voice and text work. For me, those are the 3 pillars of theatrical performance.

Introducing Our 2025 Artist-in-Residence: Andrya Duff

Untellable Movement Theatre is proud to announce Andrya Duff as our 2025 Artist-in-Residence. A dynamic, multi-disciplinary performer and creator, Andrya brings a rich tapestry of experience to our community, seamlessly blending movement, theatre, and collaborative innovation.​

About Andrya Duff

Andrya's artistic journey spans a diverse array of performances and collaborations. Her notable credits include choreography and dance for The Baroness Von Sketch Show, participation in Fictional Dance Party by Geoffrey Pugen, and performances in Several Interventions Over the Course of Two Hours by Ryan McNamara at Harbourfront Centre. She has also contributed to productions like The Children’s Crusade (Luminato), Tricycle (Circus Orange), The Stronger Variations (Theatre Rusticle), The Proust Project (Canstage), Eli and The Death Curse (Untellable Movement Theatre), Bad New Days (Summerworks), The Heart Play (Pike Productions), Grace (Poverty Cove Theatre Company, ACC), and The Fire Kedgys’ Howl (Neighbourhood Dance Works presented by the National Arts Centre and Lawrence O’Brien Arts Centre).

Beyond her individual work, Andrya is a co-founder of Grand Trine Presents, a multi-disciplinary collaboration exploring astrological archetypes through various artistic mediums. She is also a member of the Ballast Collective, which fuses movement, music, and innovative MIDI-sensor technology to create immersive performances.​

Spotlight on CAMEO

Central to Andrya's residency is the development of CAMEO, a quarterly performance series that prioritizes movement-based work. Launched in April 2024, CAMEO has already showcased over 17 local creators and 30 dancers across 14 genres. Designed as an open platform, similar to an open mic for comedians or a public reading for playwrights, CAMEO offers movement artists a space to present their ideas without the pressure of delivering a finished product.​

Key features of the CAMEO series include:​

• Seasonal Sunday afternoon performances.

• Ten performance slots per event, each lasting a maximum of five minutes.

• Affordable $5 tickets to encourage community engagement.

• No formal application process; interested artists can simply email cameoseries@gmail.com to participate.

Upcoming CAMEO dates for 2025 include performances in July 6 and September.

Andrya expresses deep gratitude to Lynn Panting and the Untellable Movement Theatre Board for supporting CAMEO through the residency program. She also extends heartfelt thanks to the performers, creators, audiences, and behind-the-scenes contributors who have brought this series to life.​

Welcome to the Incubator: Jaimie Tait Joins Untellable Movement Theatre

Untellable Movement Theatre is thrilled to welcome Jaimie Tait to our Movement Theatre Incubator program!

This summer, Jaimie will be working alongside Untellable’s Artistic Director Lynn Panting as the Assistant Director on Love’s Labour’s Lost with Shakespeare by the Sea. Through this hands-on mentorship, Jaimie will explore how movement and ensemble-building practices can be woven into the very fabric of theatre-making. Her work with Lynn will focus on creating dynamic physical storytelling, fostering collaborative processes, and building strong ensemble relationships from the ground up.

Jaimie brings a rich and varied background to the Incubator. After graduating from the prestigious acting program at Studio 58, she began her career in theatre focusing on performance, writing, and the creation of new work. In the second chapter of her career, Jaimie transitioned into stage management, where she has spent the past two decades supporting productions with her deep expertise and steady leadership.

Her recent stage management credits include Oderin at the Arts and Culture Centre, The Wild Rovers for Terra Bruce Productions, Tosca for Opera on the Avalon, Offensive to Some for Persistence Theatre, Betroffenheit with Kidd Pivot, and Chelsea Hotel: The Songs of Leonard Cohen for The Firehall Arts Centre.

Now, Jaimie is re-emerging into the creative side of theatre, and we are honoured to support her next steps. Originally from Vancouver, BC, Jaimie moved to Newfoundland ten years ago and proudly calls St. John’s her home.

We are excited for the artistry, curiosity, and collaborative spirit Jaimie brings to Untellable and look forward to seeing the impact of her work on Love’s Labour’s Lost and beyond!

Movement Theatre Incubator: Shakespeare by the Sea

We are proud to announce our collaboration with Shakespeare by the Sea for their 2025 season. Through Untellable’s Incubator program, we will be offering company classes to all SBTS performers, designed to strengthen physical storytelling, ensemble-building, and embodied performance.

Led by Lynn Panting, these classes will weave movement into the heart of the rehearsal process. Performers will explore how physicality deepens character, fosters connection, and fuels creativity on stage. The sessions are built to support artists throughout the season, nurturing confidence, collaboration, and a bold approach to storytelling.

At Untellable, we believe dance and movement are essential tools for the stage, inviting performers and audiences alike to experience theatre not just with the mind, but with the body. Our partnership with Shakespeare by the Sea reflects a shared commitment to innovative training practices and the development of dynamic theatre.

Today, and every day, we celebrate the power of dance to bring stories—and people—together.

Celebrating Movement: International Dance Day and Our 2025 Programming Update

Andrya Duff, Mayflies Performance Series, 2024

On this International Dance Day, Untellable Movement Theatre is proud to celebrate the artists, projects, and partnerships that are moving us into an exciting new chapter. Dance lives at the heart of everything we do — as a way to connect, to tell stories, and to imagine new possibilities.

We are delighted to share some exciting updates from our 2025 season:

We are thrilled to celebrate the release of Mayflies Digital Dances from our 2024 artist-in-residence: Keely Whitelaw as well as work from Vanessa Cardoso-Whelan, and Rhys Alexander Phillips. Their powerful explorations of movement and media continue to push the boundaries of how dance lives and breathes in digital spaces.

Looking ahead, we are excited to announce the upcoming release of Mayflies VR in 2025. Supported through Year of the Arts funding, Mayflies VR is a 360-degree virtual reality dance experience that brings poetry, movement, and new media together in a fully immersive environment. We can't wait to share this groundbreaking project with audiences near and far.

This year also marks the launch of a new partnership with Shakespeare by the Sea. Through our Incubator program, Untellable is offering company classes to all SBTS performers, providing training in physical storytelling, ensemble-building, and embodied performance. These sessions are designed to support the development of bold, connected, and creative theatre.

We are equally proud to announce that Jamie Tait has been selected as a participant in the Movement Theatre Incubator. Jamie’s participation marks an exciting next step in the growth of emerging movement artists in our community.

Finally, we are thrilled to welcome Andrea Duff and Cameo as Untellable’s 2025 Artist-in-Residence.

At Untellable Movement Theatre, we remain committed to nurturing artists, supporting experimentation, and creating unforgettable movement-based experiences. Stay tuned for more updates — and thank you for being part of our community.

Untellable’s Movement Theatre Incubator Program

Movement Theatre Incubator: Puppy Teeth, 2024, Written by Owen Carter, Dramaturgy by Sharon King Campbell, Movement Dramaturgy by Lynn Panting, Performed by Jeremy Nolan and Mark White

Untellable’s Movement Theatre Incubator Program

As digital performance grows, it creates opportunities for live performance to emphasize its unique strengths, particularly the power of the body. While digital media gets a big tick for accessibility and reach, live performance offers an irreplaceable, visceral experience where the physical presence of performers create a profound connection with the audience.

Untellable Movement Theatre's Incubator aims to showcase the power of the body, enhance physical literacy, and inspire playwrights to incorporate movement as a fundamental element in their scripts.

The Incubator Program is dedicated to fostering innovative movement-based storytelling. We are passionate about collaborating with playwrights to help shape language for movement within their texts, creating a seamless blend of narrative and physical expression.

What We Offer

In-Kind Movement Dramaturgy: Our Incubator Program provides invaluable support in the form of in-kind movement dramaturgy. Our experts work closely with playwrights and directors to develop and refine movement language, ensuring that every gesture, posture, and physical interaction enhances the storytelling.

Vibrant Workshop Environment: We offer a dynamic and supportive environment for play workshops. Here, artists can experiment, take risks, and explore new ideas without constraints. Our workshops are designed to be a collaborative space where movement is not just encouraged but is a central focus of the creative process.

Why Movement Matters

In live theatre, the body is an essential storytelling tool. It conveys emotions, builds worlds, and connects with the audience on a visceral level. By making movement a cornerstone of our Incubator Program, we aim to:

• Enhance Storytelling: Movement can express what words cannot. It adds layers of meaning and emotional depth, making the narrative richer and more engaging.

• Create Immersive Experiences: Movement draws audiences into the world of the play, making them feel like active participants rather than passive observers.

• Celebrate Physicality: In a time when digital screens dominate, live performance celebrates the beauty and power of the human body in motion.

For Artists

Whether you are refining a long-term project or developing a new piece, our Incubator Program is designed to nurture your artistic growth and inspire groundbreaking performance art. We invite playwrights, directors, and choreographers to join us in this journey of exploration and innovation. Together, we can push the boundaries of what live theatre can achieve and celebrate the unique power of movement.

For more information about our Incubator Program and how to apply, please visit our website or contact us directly. We look forward to moving with you!

Learn more!

Four Parts

Four Parts, 2021

photo credit: Ritche Perez

Four Parts

Untellable Movement Theatre’s project, Four Parts, is an immersive, sensory-rich experience that merges movement and music in a unique, in-the-round performance. This collaboration with the Strong Harbour Strings Collective, produced in partnership with Neighbourhood Dance Works and supported by the Arts and Culture Centres’ Arts Connector Program, is a testament to our commitment to innovative, accessible art.

Four Parts, 2021

photo credit: Ritche Perez

The Concept

Set to Jessie Montgomery’s evocative score, Strum, Four Parts is performed with the audience positioned at the center, creating a 360-degree viewing experience. Four players and four movers interpret the four parts of the score, harmonizing and caterwauling in a glorious fever dream. The unique staging allows the viewer to observe the performance from the inside out, fully immersed in the interplay of music and movement.

Four Parts, 2021

photo credit: Ritche Perez

The Performance

The performance itself is a dance of musicians and movers, each bringing their own interpretation to Montgomery’s vibrant composition. The performers include:

Movers

• Violin 1: Hilary Walsh

• Violin 2: Vanessa Cardoso Whelan

• Viola: Tanya Lasby

• Cello: Josh Murphy

Players

• Violin 1: Carole Bestvater

• Violin 2: Rory Graham

• Viola: Maria Cherwick

• Cello: Nathan Cook

The collaboration is directed by Lynn Panting, with videography by Ritche Perez, sound mix by Brian Kenny, and technical support from Karl Simmons.

For more information about Jessie Montgomery and her work, visit jessiemontgomery.com.

Four Parts, 2021

photo credit: Ritche Perez

Innovative Presentation

From February 18 to March 4, 2021, a 360-degree version of Four Parts, optimized for cellphones, was presented by the Newfoundland and Labrador Arts and Culture Centres at no charge. This format allowed viewers to experience the performance in a truly immersive way, bringing the energy and emotion of the live performance to a digital audience.

A non-360-degree version of the performance hit the film festival circuit in 2021 and 2022. Four Parts was an official selection for the 2021 Nickel Independent Film Festival, the 2021 FIN Atlantic International Film Festival, the 2021 St. John’s International Women’s Film Festival, and the 2022 Dumbo Film Festival.

Four Parts, 2021

photo credit: Ritche Perez

Reflections

Four Parts supports Untellable Movement Theatre's grassroots mission by releasing a 360-degree version optimized for cell phones, making the performance accessible to a broader audience and democratizing the experience of professional dance and music. This mobile-friendly format allows viewers to engage with the art form from the comfort of their own spaces, breaking down barriers to access. Simultaneously, by creating a non-360-degree version for the film festival circuit, Four Parts upholds and elevates professional practice. This version, showcased at prestigious festivals like the Nickel Independent Film Festival and FIN Atlantic International Film Festival, underscores our commitment to high-quality production values and artistic excellence, ensuring our work is recognized and celebrated on a larger stage.

Reflections on a Groundbreaking Year: Untellable’s 2024 Journey

Lynn Panting Dance, Mayflies Performance Series 2024

As 2024 comes to a close, we find ourselves reflecting on a year filled with innovation, collaboration, and impactful storytelling. From our flagship programs to new residency initiatives, Untellable has remained steadfast in its mission to push the boundaries of movement-based performance. Here are some highlights from this transformative year:

Ballast Collective, Mayflies Performance Series 2024

Mayflies Performance Series 2024

Partnering with Provincial Historic Sites, we hosted free lunchtime pop-up performances that were as engaging as they were accessible. Highlights included collaborations between aerialist Keely Whitelaw and musician Greg Bruce, the captivating artistry of Lynn Panting Dance, and the dynamic work of the Ballast Collective. These barrier-free events allowed audiences to experience world-class artistry in historic and meaningful spaces.

Amy Chafe, Mayflies Digital 2024

Mayflies Digital 2024

Expanding the reach of our live performances, we celebrated the release of digital dances through Mayflies Digital. Beginning in November, audiences could experience new movement pieces on Instagram and YouTube. This initiative allowed Untellable to connect with global audiences, ensuring that our commitment to storytelling through movement extended far beyond traditional venues.

Keely Whitelaw and Greg Bruce, Mayflies Performance Series 2024

Artist Residency 2024: Keely Whitelaw

Our Artist Residency program shone brightly this year with aerialist and doctoral candidate, Keely Whitelaw. Keely’s work explored translating her aerial and climbing expertise to horizontal, site-specific contexts—particularly the rugged beauty of Newfoundland’s coastline.

Amy Chafe

Digital Artist Residency 2024: Amy Chafe

This year marked the pilot of our Digital Artist Residency program, welcoming Newfoundland artist Amy Chafe. Amy collaborated with photographer Arnab Chaudhuri and artist Julia Carr to create three innovative digital works.

Owen Carter and Sharon King Campbell, Movement Theatre Incubator 2024

Movement Theatre Incubator

Untellable’s Movement Theatre Incubator launched this year. The program supported Puppy Teeth, written by Owen Carter, with dramaturgy by Sharon King-Campbell and movement dramaturgy by Lynn Panting. The project culminated in an electrifying presentation at the LSPU Hall. Performed by Jeremy Nolan and Mark White, this work exemplified the creative synergy the incubator fosters.

Looking Ahead

As we step into 2025, Untellable is thrilled to announce upcoming projects, including Caravan, Mayflies VR, and a new adaptation of Peter and the Wolf. These initiatives promise to further explore the possibilities of movement theatre, blending traditional performance, site-specific performance, and cutting-edge technology to create immersive, boundary-pushing experiences.

A Year to Remember

Through these programs and initiatives, Untellable Movement Theatre has deepened its commitment to embodied storytelling in unconventional spaces. From historic sites to digital platforms, 2024 was a testament to the power of movement to connect, inspire, and transform.

We are deeply grateful to our artists, collaborators, and audiences who made this year unforgettable. Here’s to continuing the journey together in 2025.

An Orange in December: A Celebration of Newfoundland and Labrador Tradition

In Newfoundland and Labrador, the tradition of finding an orange in your Christmas stocking is a cherished memory for many. This seemingly simple gift, once a rare and precious treat, carries with it the warmth of nostalgia and the comfort of home. Untellable Movement Theatre's 2021 project, "An Orange in December," beautifully captures this sentiment, merging tradition with innovation to create a virtual Christmas card for those at home and those missing home.

A Fresh Take on a Classic

At the heart of "An Orange in December" is a new arrangement of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Overture, masterfully reimagined for the mandolin by Dave Panting, with production by Geoff Panting. The Nutcracker, a staple of Christmas celebrations worldwide, is given a fresh, local flavour through Panting's arrangement, bridging the gap between classical music and Newfoundland’s folk traditions. The sweet, resonant tones of the mandolin evoke a sense of warmth and familiarity, making the Nutcracker Overture feel as though it has always belonged in the homes of Newfoundland and Labrador.

This unique musical arrangement sets the stage for a heartwarming dance performance by Ada Andrews. Her performance, filmed within the historic walls of Winterholme, adds an element of timelessness to the project, creating a poignant reminder of the joys of Christmases past and the hope for those to come.

The cinematography by Chris Hibbs captures the beauty of Winterholme, the intimacy of Andrews' performance, and the rich textures of the costumes provided by the ACC Costume Bank.

Digital Dance

Untellable started its “digital dance” journey out of necessity in 2020. It’s a methodology that we now embrace. One of the benefits of digital dance is that it is an archive. We have the opportunity to look back at past performances with fresh eyes.

Much has changed since the filming of this project— yet, it resonates. We hope that this piece finds an audience of returning viewers and new sets of eyes each year.

A Gift to the Community

Directed by Lynn Panting, "An Orange in December" is a gift to the community. In a time when many were unable to be with their loved ones, this virtual Christmas card served as a reminder of home, heritage, and the enduring spirit of the holidays.

As the holiday season approaches, "An Orange in December" invites audiences to reflect on the simple joys of the holidays, the importance of tradition, and the ways in which art can connect us. This beautiful collaboration is a celebration of the past, a nod to the present, and a hopeful look towards the future—wrapped up in the sweet memory of an orange in December.

We hope you enjoy it for years to come!

Support the Art of Connection: Untellable Movement Theatre’s 2024 Donation Campaign

Elizabeth Gagnon, Mayflies 2020

Support the Art of Connection

Untellable Movement Theatre believes in the power of movement to inspire, connect, and transform. Our performances are immersive experiences that invite our audience to explore new ways of seeing themselves and others. Now, with your help, we can take this mission even further.

Our Donation Campaign is focused on strengthening our ability to reach and inspire even more people. This campaign is about more than funding our programming; it’s about fostering a vibrant, inclusive arts community where everyone feels welcome to engage, express, and be moved.

Every donation supports:

• Innovative Art Making: Your contribution enables us to create new works that push boundaries, address important stories, and bring artists and audiences together in meaningful ways.

• Accessible Arts Experiences: We believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience the joy of movement and performance. Donations help us keep our ticket prices affordable, offer free community events, and fund accessibility initiatives to make our shows welcoming for all.

• Community Engagement: With your support, we can continue to grow programs that bring dance and storytelling to community spaces.

Every dollar counts, and every contribution brings us closer to a world where art and community thrive together. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or new to our work, your gift will have a lasting impact, helping us to inspire more people and bring more powerful stories to life.

Join us in our mission to create art that builds empathy, fosters connection, and celebrates the stories that make us human. Visit our donation page to make a gift today. Let’s move forward together.