Compagnie La Otra Orilla

Compagnie La Otra Orilla is a Canadian nonprofit organization based in Montreal, Quebec, dedicated to the advancement of flamenco through multidisciplinary choreographic creation, education, and artistic collaboration. Registered under the business number 851653584RR0001, the organization seeks to foster a sensory dialogue across various artistic disciplines by exploring flamenco in innovative and culturally rich contexts.

History and Mission

Founded in 2006 by Quebec choreographer and dancer Myriam Allard and Franco-Tunisian director and singer Hedi Graja, Compagnie La Otra Orilla (meaning "the other shore" in Spanish) has developed a unique artistic voice that reinvigorates the flamenco tradition by blending it with contemporary and diverse cultural influences. The company's mission is to create, produce, and present works that deepen the understanding of flamenco while also opening it to new interpretations and audiences beyond its traditional boundaries.

Artistic Focus and Activities

Compagnie La Otra Orilla specializes in multidisciplinary choreographic creation that integrates dance, music, and theatrical elements related to flamenco. The organization builds collaborative opportunities among artists from different disciplines to produce hybrid cultural expressions that reflect both the ancient roots and contemporary evolutions of flamenco[1][2][5].

In addition to performance creation, the company offers flamenco classes, artist residencies, and organizes events aimed at fostering artistic exchange and community engagement. Its creative studio in Montreal’s Saint-Henri district serves as a vibrant space for dreaming, creating, learning, hosting, and gathering, open to artists and audiences alike[3][5].

Educational and Cultural Impact

Compagnie La Otra Orilla’s work extends beyond performance to educational outreach, promoting the understanding and appreciation of flamenco in Canada. The organization’s programs contribute to the advancement of education in the arts, theater, film, and drama, highlighting flamenco's relevance in contemporary cultural discourse[2].

The organization is recognized as a registered charitable entity by the Canada Revenue Agency, emphasizing its role in fostering cultural enrichment and artistic education in the Canadian arts landscape[4].

Compagnie La Otra Orilla stands out as a dynamic force in Canadian cultural life, bridging traditional flamenco with modern artistic expressions while providing a platform for international and local artists to collaborate and innovate.