Angélique Willkie, Concordia associate professor of contemporary dance, premiered her solo performance Confession Publique last year to much acclaim.
Now that performance is being recognized by the Prix de la danse de Montréal. The organization celebrates the exceptional creative work of individual artists, collectives and companies who performed on the city’s stages in a given season.
Willkie is being awarded the prestigious Prix interprète, which highlights an artist’s dance work from the previous year deserving of special recognition for its artistic approach and interpretation. It also recognizes the artist’s commitment to the dance discipline and community.
“I feel humbled, honoured and aware that the culmination of my career is being recognized. Confession Publique couldn’t have happened without everything that took place before it,” says Willkie.
“This award is also precious acknowledgement from the Montreal dance community, which has adopted me with such generosity and wholeness. It’s a ‘welcome.’”
Willkie received her award during a ceremony held at prize founder Marie Chouinard’s dance studio on November 22. In their comments, jury members highlighted both her masterful performance and her longstanding commitment to the discipline.
“Angélique Willkie possesses a magnetic, focused and astonishing power that leaves you breathless, and she shares it with humility and unshakable confidence. From her words, gestures and songs emanate a fluidity, sensitivity, maturity and unmatched vulnerability,” they wrote.
“Her rich multidisciplinary career, and her commitment as both dramaturge and pedagogue are reflected in her performance.”