Dance Feast

Image courtesy Body Festiavl 2009.

Today marks the start of the 2009 Body Festival, which is being staged here in Christchurch. Unfortunately the weather is foul – wet and freezing cold – so everyone will be hoping it clears in time for tonight’s launch in Victoria Square, which kicks off with a world record attempt at the largest-ever line dance. Beyond that, the festival programme includes everything from contemporary dance to ballet, Indian classical dance, speed dancing, flamenco, jazz, salsa, tap and a whole host of dance classes that include everything from the Charleston to Maori poi dancing. One of the highlights will be the debut season of the new Christchurch-based contemporary dance company, Southern Lights (pictured), who will perform three new works. www.thebody.co.nz