Don't Wake the Lions explores a struggle and its aftermath. As tensions reach a boiling point, can conflicting perspectives shift to create something new? This rhythmic, grounded, and physical piece, performed with live music, is rooted in contemporary jazz and tap dance. This piece is likened to the tumultuous situations in society, including our recent trials with the pandemic and the chaotic world headlines; these events lead us to conflict. Uncovering what blossoms from the wreckage is what leads us towards great transformation and gives humanity hope. The musicians and the dancers are all characters in the plot. At times at odds, opponents, adversaries, and at times collaborators, teammates, and whatever lies in between. Music and dance will collide. The exchange between dancers and musicians happens live on stage, and the collaboration is unique to each performance. 

Recognize the rumblings of the lion at your core, awakening inside you. 

Length: 1 hour

• December 2021 - Self presented at Sir James Dunn Theatre (Halifax NS)
• January 2023 - Creative residency at Decidedly Jazz Danceworks (Calgary AB)
• July 2024 - Self presentation at Neptune Scotiabank Stage Theatre (Halifax NS)

• Choreography & Artistic Direction: Catherine Hayward
• Music: Tom Richards 
• Dancers (2024): Isaac Abriel, Kathleen Doherty, Michèle King, Stephanie Mitro, Liliona Quarmyne  
• Musicians: Mark Adam, Gabriella Ciurcovich, Tom Richards
• Lighting Design: Jess Lewis 
• Costume Design: Catherine Hayward

• I didn’t move from the edge of my seat watching Don’t Wake the Lions. To see these dancers move with such power and ferocity, while the live band lead them through the work was a truly moving experience.
• What a phenomenal show, I loved every second of it so much!
• (the show) felt so good to experience!