The Expo has presented music and dance artists rarely seen by the “mainstream” in Toronto. We have had many, many letters of appreciation but perhaps witnessing audiences dancing in the aisles or clapping and shouting as the performers intensify and accelerate the rhythm is our greatest reward. It is this latter group we are proud to have again as guest performer at our opening night. They are Jeng Yi of the Salmunori tradition of Dance and Drum of Korea see www.jengyi.com and also on the Features Page of www.torontoartexpo.com in the 4 minute video. They are famed for their Ribbon Dance, a technique of spinning long ribbons from their headdresses whilst playing the Four Instruments (Salmunori) of Drums, cymbal and gong in addition to dancing. The ribbon technique takes two years to learn and history tells of these drummers advancing into battle with glass shards on the ribbon ends. Jeng Yi is led by Chul Wa (Charles) Hong who has studied in Korea under the great Master Kim Duk Soo who like Sean O’Riarda did for Irish music, resurrected and advanced this art form of Salmunori for Korea. Master Kim has collaborated and performed at WOMAD with Peter Gabriel. You can also get a flavour of the evening that Jeng Yi will bring from Master Kim’s You Tube www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhnGVZIOd9A

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Obsidian Theatre Company: Call for Apprentices 2012-13
 
Obsidian Theatre Company is passionately dedicated to the exploration, development and production of the Black voice.
 
Obsidian Theatre’s Mentor/Apprentice Program provides emerging theatre artists much needed work experience and a deeper understanding of professional practises by working with some of the most sought after theatre practitioners in Canadian theatre, including members of Obsidian Theatre Company.

Funding by the Department of Canadian Heritage allows us to offer paid apprenticeship positions. Placements will occur between Autumn 2012 and Spring 2013.
 
Recent partners for this program include: Shaw Festival, Young People’s Theatre, Soulpepper Theatre Company, Canadian Stage Company, Studio 180 and Tarragon Theatre.
 
Apprenticeships are available in the following fields of interest:
Directing                                           Dramaturgy                         Lighting Design
Production Management                Costume Design                 Set Design
Producing                                         Music Directing                  Technical Direction

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