Testimonies
Florence Winter Bowdige
Program 16
(Photo: Morgane Guillou)
"Being part of the Big Bang means being free. Free to be yourself, free to express, free to make, free to move. Free to make connections, free to try, free to fail and free to push the boundaries. If you think of an idea, you will be encouraged to push it, to believe in it. You are taught to believe in your Art, believe in the people around you and realise that what we create is magic, special, beautiful. Every conversation is a source of inspiration, every guest opens a new thought. The studio, a space filled with sweat, power, dedication and love for movement. Stephanie, with the attentive support of her partner Stephane, has created a bespoke and precious programme for international artists. A programme led with care, energy, belief, strength and hope. The programme was a big moment for me, I feel whole again, I feel my body, I feel myself."
Iris Perriniaux
Program 16
(Photo: Morgane Guillou)
"I chose BIG BANG to deepen my technique and explore new dance styles that could expand my own artistic language. Stéphanie and the guest teachers create a supportive, encouraging environment where I felt safe to take risks, experiment, and receive guidance throughout my solo research. What stayed with me most is the feeling of being in a true creative bubble, surrounded by artists from many different backgrounds—an experience that naturally enriches and broadens everyone’s work."
Elina Saryazdi
Program 16
(Photo: Morgane Guillou)
"As an international artist coming to Canada, Big Bang gave me tools not only to expand my choreographic and physical practise but also to acclimatise to the dance scene in Montréal. Many guest artists are invited to teach on the program, each one bringing their own unique style and experience, allowing the participants to experience well-rounded and diverse training. Stéphanie teaches consistently on the course, creating a great sense of continuity and progress. During the solo process, the artists are supported by Stéphanie and others, not only for creation but also to write accompanying statements, get in-process feedback and arrange photography and videography of the work. This was incredibly useful not only within the 12 weeks but for the future, for example, for solo residency applications. I would highly recommend this program to any emerging artist and have come out feeling more capable and confident that I have the tools I need to take the next steps in my dance career."
Élodie Blanchard
Program 16
(Photo: Anika Ste Marie)
"What motivated me to join BIG BANG was the desire to step outside my comfort zone. I felt it was a real opportunity to challenge myself and rethink my approach to creation. On a technical level, the program brought great versatility through the discovery of new styles, allowing me to expand my physical vocabulary and explore approaches I might not have encountered otherwise. Artistically, BIG BANG deeply nourished me through the many guest artists involved. Their perspectives, methods, and sensibilities broadened my outlook and enriched my own creative process. What surprised me most was the generosity of sharing among the dancers, within an atmosphere of respect, openness, and collaboration that truly shaped my experience."
Danae Serinet Barrera
Program 15
(Photo: Bashir Al Mahayni)
"Life sometimes offers beautiful surprises during moments of doubt, transition, and questioning. After nearly five years away from Montréal, living and dancing in Europe, returning through Big Bang became something unexpected and deeply meaningful. Stéphanie, the program, the guest artists, and the incredible people who—like me—took part in this journey all contributed, in their own way, to helping me fall back in love with dance, with Montréal, with winter, and with myself. Big Bang invited me to dive into both my light and shadow, allowing me to grow further as an artist, a dancer, and as a woman, daughter, sister, and friend."
Ines Chiha
Programs 12, 13 and 15
(Photo: Vanessa Fortin)
"My experience with BIG BANG was essential to my artistic growth. I explored new approaches to movement while gaining a clearer understanding of my strengths and areas for development. Exchanges with teachers and fellow artists broadened my view of different practices and aesthetics, sharpening my critical eye and deepening my attention to movement and writing. BIG BANG also unexpectedly reconnected me with pleasure in my practice, strengthening my artistic identity and inner motivation. I highly recommend the program to anyone wishing to grow in their movement and dance practice within a supportive and nurturing environment."
Noan Joffraud
Program 15
(Photo: Sébastien Chion)
"BIG BANG allowed me to rediscover myself as an artist, to reconnect, and to trust myself again. I found a supportive and caring environment where I felt safe to share my vulnerability—something essential to my growth. I leave the program feeling stronger and more confident."
Clara Barbieux
Program 14
(Photo: Benjamin Rapp)
"I decided to join BIG BANG to build a new movement foundation and to (re)find myself as an artist—why do we do all of this in the first place? Creating my solo brought real clarity and helped me find answers along the way. Technically, BIG BANG felt like a dream: so many worlds and possibilities opened up that it was almost overwhelming—in the best way. It’s also a program where, at some point, each of us meets our own vulnerability, and that creates a powerful sense of cohesion and solidarity. It isn’t always easy, but it’s inspiring, necessary, and truly a journey worth living. I recommend BIG BANG 300%—and if I could, I would do it again."
Shirley Gibbs
Program 14
(Photo: Morgan Guillou)
"Big Bang reconnected me with the essence of art and reminded me of the power of community when we create together. It’s not only a place to train and grow, but a space of sharing—filled with love, care, and meaningful exchange. What makes Big Bang so special is the diversity of people: we’re all movement artists, yet each with our own approach. That mix creates a research-driven environment that challenges you, pushes your ideas further, and invites you out of your comfort zone. Big Bang also brought incredible artists into my life—people I’m truly grateful to have today."
Flore Magnier
Program 14
(Photo: Morgan Guillou)
"BIG BANG was, for me, a chance to shape my artistic identity through dance. It was a unique experience to explore countless approaches to movement within a diverse, international, and deeply supportive group. A timeless, close-knit safe space that made the journey rich on every level. BIG BANG felt like a waking dream: dancing all week for months, with nothing else to worry about. Its greatest strength? Being guided by guest artists with multiple visions and approaches—people who fed my freedom and expanded what I believed was possible."
Kristopher Griffin
Program 14
(Photo: Benjamin Rapp)
"Taking part in the BIG BANG program was an incredibly enriching experience. I explored a wide range of dance styles, stepped outside my comfort zone, and developed greater ease in my body. The program gave me concrete tools to structure my work and spark creativity—especially through the creation of a solo, which was a major challenge for me. Beyond the technical and artistic growth, BIG BANG expanded my perspective and offered me a new way of approaching movement. I highly recommend it to any artist who wants to deepen their practice, gain versatility, and discover new possibilities. The guidance, the diversity of teachers, and the program’s energy make it a truly unique and formative experience."
Sofya Kovalskaya
Programs 13 and 14
(Photo: Morgan Guillou)
"BIG BANG profoundly transformed my perception of art—and, in many ways, my life. In a world that moves so fast, the program offered a rare space to slow down, question myself, and clarify what I truly want to express, both as an artist and as a person. BIG BANG taught me that there is no “right” or “wrong” in art—only the courage to trust yourself, listen to your intuition, and take risks. I explored a wide range of approaches, sometimes with a sense of vertigo, but always with deep inspiration. Above all, I discovered an essential value: community—a sense of belonging, collective support, and human warmth that I had never truly experienced in my classical ballet journey."
Christophe Bétournay
Programs 12 and 13
(Photo: Vanessa Fortin)
"Coming from a circus background, I joined BIG BANG to train intensively in dance and develop my own physical vocabulary—and that’s exactly what the program gave me. What I didn’t expect, though, was how powerful the solo-creation process would be. BIG BANG is an incredible opportunity to be supported through a true artistic residency approach. Stéphanie helped me understand that the focus is creation, not performance. I leave the program with much more trust in my body and physical abilities, and with a renewed perspective on the world of live performance."
Nicolas Sylvestre
Programs 10 and 13
(Photo: Vanessa Fortin)
"I chose to join BIG BANG because I wanted to keep pursuing my passion for art, grow professionally, and be supported by a community of artists and teachers from many different backgrounds. Throughout the program, I felt truly seen and heard—and I gained confidence, perspective, and a real sense of cultural richness. I felt like I belonged. As a circus and multidisciplinary artist, BIG BANG was deeply rewarding. Being in constant contact with other artists who shared similar aspirations and needs helped me trust the artistic value of my approach and my work."
Lorenzo Serafino
Programs 10 and 13
(Photo: Helena Vallès)
"BIG BANG truly lives up to its name. Coming from a circus background, the training allowed me to discover new movement approaches and expand how I use my body. In just a few months, I developed a new way of moving that now perfectly complements my circus work. I recommend BIG BANG to anyone who wants to give themselves time to explore and deepen their movement practice, supported by a unique approach and strong pedagogical guidance—all within a healthy, supportive environment."
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Angeline Bourgeault
Program 12
(Photo: Vanessa Fortin)
"BIG BANG was transformative for me in many ways. It gave me the space to expand my creative and decision-making skills in the familiar and the new and experience the collective creativity of a driven and thoughtful group of artists. I witnessed inspiring art-making from my peers and teachers and benefitted from their feedback on my work in a safe, encouraging environment. In the end I am leaving BIG BANG with a deepened perspective on movement/performance art and the confidence to create and try new things."
Sarah Roy
Program 12
(Photo: David Wong)
"For me, BIG BANG was a series of precious, meaningful moments of exchange, where both the artist and the human being were truly at the center. It’s a space full of artistic encounters, where you can feel a real community forming—rooted in kindness and a strong sense of togetherness. The program gave me the chance to discover new styles through an approach that is both demanding and supportive of exploration. I genuinely felt I had the space to let my creative imagination roam freely, held by constant encouragement and care. I leave deeply moved by these encounters, and energized by everything that now feels possible."
Emma Wallace
Program 12
(Photo: David Wong)
"After moving to Montreal, BIG BANG served as the perfect introduction to the vibrant dance community. Stéphanie's unwavering support was instrumental in my journey, guiding and encouraging me every step of the way. BIG BANG provided me with the freedom to explore my artistic desires, allowed me to make meaningful connections with countless professional artists, and make some lifelong friends. BIG BANG was truly a transformative experience, fostering both personal and artistic growth."
Ana Perret-Halsouet
Program 12
(Photo: Vanessa Fortin)
"I joined the Big Bang program to bring more focus to the way I create and to better understand myself as an artist. I was also drawn to the diversity of disciplines and participants (circus, theatre, streetdance, and more). I was pleasantly surprised by how much support the group offered—something Stéphanie really encourages—and by the number of guest artists who helped us connect with Montréal’s dance community. I recommend Big Bang to anyone who wants to feel more grounded and confident in their artistic projects."
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Chloé Jouffre
Program 12
(Photo: Vanessa Fotin)
"BIG BANG has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life so far. I never imagined I would grow this much—both artistically and personally. The healthy, supportive environment played a huge role in the confidence I built, especially through a creative process that can feel vulnerable at times. Being surrounded by artists with very different backgrounds, and guided by guest artists with unique approaches, was deeply inspiring. At BIG BANG, I found my artistic identity, and I’m proud of the work-in-progress I was able to share. Stéphanie’s steady, attentive support was truly invaluable throughout the program."
Daeva Miles
Program 12
(Photo: David Wong)
"I initially decided to participate in the Big Bang Program because I knew it would provide the perfect bridge between my post graduate training and my career as a freelance artist. Not only did the program offer a wide range of techniques, but it also gave me the opportunity to create work, something I found very daunting at the time. The support from my fellow dancers as well as the teachers were so helpful during this process and I felt I was really able to step out of my comfort zone. The program was way more collaborative than I had expected and we were presented with several opportunities to work together on choreography as well as partner work. It was nice to be surrounded by artists of all backgrounds (circus, theatre, dance, etc), as everyone had such a unique approach to the work. I felt inspired by this and it helped me also find new possibilities within my own movement language. If you’re interested in becoming a more well-rounded artist, and establishing more connections within Montréal, I would highly recommend Big Bang."
Camille Robert
Program 12
(Photo: David Wong)
"I wanted to join Big Bang because I felt the need to search for my individuality and my own choreographic voice—to truly discover myself as an artist. Through the technique classes and creation labs, I feel I now have the tools to keep developing the research I began during the program. What I didn’t expect was to be immersed in an environment that was at once so stimulating, safe, and also beautifully unsettling—in the best way. I was inspired by the unique spark in every artist around me. Big Bang is a meaningful journey—toward others, and toward yourself."
Alexa Bender
Program 11
(Photo: David Wong)
"Big Bang is a beautiful program that offers many resources and training for artists to explore freely as they work towards developing their artistic vision. I was eager to join and exchange with a group of international artists to move and develop a solo piece alongside one another, sharing in the creative process of making and re-making, undoing and dissecting themes that come up over the weeks. These 4 months allowed me the space to step back from the pressure to perform, to enjoy the act of taking class for pure pleasure and in the creation labs for my curiosity to run free. The cross training of disciplines was wonderful as a contemporary dancer to enhance my skills in urban styles and acro/circus training. It has given me new life as an artist that seeks to engage across disciplines. Stephanie and the team offer meaningful support and thought-provoking questions to open up the process for greater possibility. Ultimately this time allowed me to learn more about what matters and resonates with me as an artist and I am very thankful for the opportunity!"
Lena Roth
Program 11
(Photo: Vanessa Fortin)
"Driven by a desire for renewal, I decided to come to Montréal to join the program. Big Bang gave me exactly what I was looking for: learning to let go, taking time for myself, creating, meeting people, sharing, and daring more. I was able to deepen my contemporary technique through a variety of movement approaches, and also discover styles I would never have explored on my own—like mime or urban dance. I recommend Big Bang to curious movement lovers who want to dive into an artistic whirlwind and experience a truly unique personal exploration."
Danae Zeller Silva
Program 11
(Photo: Vanessa Fortin)
"Big Bang deeply impacted me through the richness of the styles and movement worlds we explored. The program helped me find my place in the city, build connections, and learn from inspiring artists and teachers. It was an experience that felt both energizing and deeply comforting—for my body and my mind. I truly recommend Big Bang: it’s a precious space to connect with Montréal’s dance community, while being warmly supported as you create your own piece."
Aicha Benchaâboune
Program 9
(Photo: Helena Vales)
"Stéphanie is an incredible teacher and artist. She supported me closely while still giving me the space to discover myself as an artist. Being surrounded by passionate dancers from different backgrounds—and guided by a mentor as engaged and active in the community as Stéphanie—was truly liberating, and helped me grow a lot. The program’s multidisciplinary approach also allowed me to experience a completely different side of dance and adopt a new perspective compared to what I had known before. Finally, the choreographic creation component was a real challenge for me, and I never expected I would be able to create a full piece."
Ciro Melgaço
Program 9
(Photo: Helena Vales)
"Big Bang introduced me to so many artists—both my creative partners and the teachers and guest professionals—each of them driven by openness and a deep sense of connection, in the studio and beyond. I grew a lot throughout the program and experienced many “firsts”: discovering new techniques, creating my own work, expressing myself in another language, and meeting artists from all over the world. This environment gave me the confidence and momentum I needed for what comes next. I couldn’t have asked for better guidance than Stéphanie—an outstanding artist and teacher who is attentive, committed, and deeply human. The program is thoughtfully designed and held in a beautiful studio, and it truly nurtures artists’ vitality and creativity throughout their creative process."
Laura Perron
Program 6
(Photo: Ombeline Vautelet)
"After nearly ten years focused mainly on teaching, I began to feel a growing emptiness—I was giving a lot without always receiving much in return. Joining BIG BANG had a simple intention: to find myself again. The program offered me far more than a few tools for my performer’s path; it allowed me to become a student again—and, through that, a better teacher. Stéphanie is an exemplary educator and a true source of inspiration for her students. Her courage, grounded in transparency and real vulnerability, creates a healthy, warm, and deeply human atmosphere in every class."
Lamont
Program 6
(Photo: Ombeline Vautelet)
"The intensity of the training is a key part of what makes it so valuable. Week after week, I felt my body becoming more available and responsive to each movement proposal. By setting technical goals from the start, I was able to track my progress clearly and realize how much a consistent practice expands the body’s possibilities—in mobility, strength, endurance, and precision. The artistic exchanges, both with the artists in the program and with the teachers, were incredibly rich. The openness and respect for differences deeply supported the emergence of my own artistic identity. I experience my time in the program as a foundational, defining step in my artistic development."
