My Love Letter to Louise Lecavalier: A Review of 'Stations' at Harbourfront Centre

I grew up watching clips on YouTube of Louise Lecavalier dancing with the incredible La La La Human Steps, a contemporary dance company from Quebec. They were known for their completely fearless physicality, with dancers throwing their bodies in every direction in the most amazing physical feats. La La La Human Steps were especially famous for their signature move—a barrel jump, a fully horizontal, mid-air full body circle jump. Of course, I've attempted to replicate this jump many times and still share clips of their performances with my students to this day.

Beyond her time with La La La Human Steps, Lecavalier is celebrated for her collaborations with David Bowie, notably featured with the same fearless energy in his 'Fame' music video and performing on his Sound+Vision tour. Her remarkable achievements have led her to become one of the select few honored as an Order of Canada choreographer and dancer.

Now at the age of 65, Louise returns to the stage with Stations, showcased in the 2023/2024 Torque season presented by the Harbourfront Centre. This 60-minute solo work, choreographed by Fou Glorieux, is a vivid reflection of her ongoing fiery spirit and signature fearlessness.

In Stations, Louise brings four distinctive pieces to the stage, each marked by its own soundtrack and lighting, inviting a myriad of interpretations. Her mastery of stage presence and focus is exceptional. Watching her perform, I'm amazed by her agility and energy, inspiring especially when considering I am not sure I could do the same now in my 30s.

The movement is constantly shifting in aesthetics. At times she shakes her head vigorously as she shuffles on one foot, while the other is raised at a 90-degree angle, across the stage, never losing eye contact or focus with the audience. At others, she shifts into staccato and repetitive movement sequences. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her. The third segment, where Louise rhythmically grooves to the music, was particularly engaging for me, and I couldn’t help but to smile while watching.

Alain Lortie's lighting design beautifully accentuated Stations, with strong side lighting that not only highlighted Louise's incredible performance but also added depth and further beauty to the entire show. The impactful shifts in color, such as transitioning from stark white to vibrant red, effectively mirrored the shifting moods between the sections of the work. The textured floor lighting design also added beautiful layers to the piece.

Stations strikes a deep chord for those of us who have admired Louise from her electrifying performances with La La La Human Steps, through her collaborations with David Bowie, and as an inspiring solo artist. It is a privilege to witness such a remarkable performer and true artist at work. Louise, your incredible art and enduring performances have left an indelible mark on Canadian dance. Thank you for sharing your extraordinary talent and passion with us all these years!

Stations, presented by the Harbourfront Centre is playing at the Fleck Dance Theatre (207 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 1A7) until November 25th, 2023. Tickets range from $29 to $79. Tickets can be purchased online here.

HarbourfrontCentre.com
Instagram and Facebook: @harbourfrontcentre, Twitter: @HarbourfrontTO

Photo by Andre Cornellier.

Written by Deanne Kearney
DeanneKearney.com @deannekearney