
RUBBERBAND
Second Chances
Photo by Marie-Noële Pilon
Artist Pitch
Dance
National Arts Center
Tuesday, December 2
11:00 a.m
Since 2002, Victor Quijada and RUBBERBAND have not only redefined the codes of breaking within an institutional context and enlivened the Quebec dance scene, but have opened the way for new creators fascinated by this dance form. Armed with a technique he conceived for dancers, the RUBBERBAND Method – a vocabulary combining the energy of hip-hop, the refinement of classical ballet, and the angular quality of contemporary dance – and some 40 creations and collaborations in Canada and abroad, Quijada has always continued to evolve and innovate throughout his prolific career. The RUBBERBAND Method is also taught throughout the world, as well as in RUBBERBAND’s Intensive workshops for professional dancers.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, the child of Mexican parents, Victor first danced in the b-boying circles and hip-hop clubs of his native city before performing with Rudy Perez, THARP!, Ballets Tech and Les Grands Ballets Canadiens. Besides his stage productions, Victor has been involved in a dozen dance films, as director, choreographer, or dramaturge. Among other recognitions, Victor Quijada received the award for Cultural Diversity at the Prix de la danse de Montréal (2017), and has been named Fellow of the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation (2024).
Founded in Montreal in 2002, RUBBERBAND quickly made its mark with bold, innovative choreography blending urban and contemporary dance. Under the direction of Victor Quijada and co-director Anne Plamondon, the company has created a series of acclaimed works, including Vic’s Mix, Ever So Slightly, Reckless Underdog, and Second Chances. RUBBERBAND has also produced award-winning dance films such as Gravity of Center and Ever So Slightly, earning international recognition. With performances spanning North America, Europe, Mexico, and Japan, the company remains a leader in Canadian dance, celebrated for its singular movement language and bold artistic vision.