Margie Gillis was born on July 9th, 1953

Margie Gillis: The Pioneering Canadian Dancer and Choreographer

Known for her captivating performances and innovative choreography, Margie Gillis is a renowned Canadian dancer and choreographer who has been mesmerizing audiences for over three decades. With a repertoire of over 100 original works, Gillis has established herself as a pioneer in modern dance, pushing the boundaries of the art form with her unique style and expression.

Early Life and Education

Born on July 9, 1953, in Montreal, Quebec, Gillis comes from a family of athletes and artists. Her parents, Gene and Rhona Wurtele, were both Canadian Olympic skiers, and her brother, Jere Gillis, played professional hockey. Her elder brother, Christopher Gillis, was a professional dancer and choreographer who danced with her since childhood and collaborated on numerous shows. Gillis's sister, Nancy Andersen, was a yoga teacher and personal trainer.

Showing a passion for dance early in life, Gillis began ballet and gymnastic lessons at the age of three. She trained and rehearsed on her own and later continued to learn in classes with teachers such as May O'Donnell, Linda Rabin, Lynda Raino, and Allan Wayne.

Career and Legacy

In 1981, Gillis founded her own company, the Margie Gillis Dance Foundation, with the mission to support and present her artistic work. Her company has toured extensively to Asia, India, Europe, and the Middle East, as well as across North and South America. She was the first performer to take Western modern dance to China in 1979, breaking cultural barriers and introducing a new generation to the art form.

Gillis is a socially committed artist, using her platform to raise awareness and support for various causes. She has been a spokesperson for organizations dedicated to the fight against AIDS, as well as for OXFAM and the Planned Parenthood Foundation.

Awards and Distinctions

• In 1987, Gillis was the first modern dance artist to be awarded the Order of Canada, the country's highest civilian honor.
• She has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout her career, including the National Order of Quebec and the Governor General's Award for Lifetime Artistic Achievement.
• Gillis has been named an Honorary Cultural Ambassador for both the Quebec and Canadian governments.

Teaching and Mentorship

During the summer months, Gillis teaches two one-week dance retreats at HollyHock, a centre on Cortes Island, British Columbia. She shares her expertise and passion for dance with students from around the world, inspiring a new generation of dancers and choreographers.

Lasting Impact

Margie Gillis's contributions to modern dance have been immense, paving the way for future generations of dancers and choreographers. Her commitment to her craft, her passion for social justice, and her tireless advocacy for the arts have made her a beloved figure in Canada and around the world.

Gillis's legacy extends beyond her own performances and choreography, inspiring a new wave of artists to push the boundaries of modern dance and explore new ways of expression. She remains an icon in the world of dance, a true pioneer who continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.