Kaha:wi was the first full length production of Kaha:wi Dance Theatre, Canada's most acclaimed dance company. The company is led by Artistic Director Santee Smith. A ravishing mix of styles and spirits. The cycle of Life unfolds throughout Kaha:wi: a grandmother dies and a new baby is born. Steeped in traditional Iroquoian based song and dance, the narrative weaves around the lives of three generations of women and the community in which they thrive. Kaha:wi touches audiences on an emotional, physical and spiritual level. Santee Smiths premiere choreographic work, Kaha:wi premiered at the Premiere Dance Theatre at Harbourfront Centre in Toronto in 2004. The choreography, music and design for Kaha:wi explores fundamental philosophies of Iroquoian culture such as honouring the cycle of Life, thanksgiving, sacredness of the natural world, rite ceremonies and duality.

Choreographically, Kaha:wi draws inspiration from Iroquoian social dances such as the Gada:tro:t (Standing Quiver Dance or Stomp Dance), Ehsga:nye: gae:nase: (New Womens Shuffle Dance), Gayowaga:yoh (Old Mocassin Dance) and the Wa enoti:yo (Stick Dance). Musically, Kaha:wi highlights tradition based songs such as the Dawn Song, Gada:tro:t, naming songs and Ato:wi:se (Womens Chant or Moon Songs). This work will be performed in Yokohama, Japan in October 2009. The soundtrack for Kaha:wi is available for purchase. Check our website....or email us. Music: Original contemporary Aboriginal music. Nominated for two Canadian Aboriginal Music Awards 2004. Winner of a Hamilton Music Award (2005). Lighting Design: Ron Snippe Costume/Set Design: Cheryl Lalonde