ZTN23 THANK YOU!
The days after hosting an event are a surreal experience. All the preparation and work culminates in an event and then… it’s done.
#ZoukTheNorthk has been a dream in the making for a long time. It’s Laura’s place of birth, and a city Darius lived in part-time for several years. This dream could not have become reality without the support of many – but there are some key people who really made it happen.
First, our DZouk Productions team that took the plunge and followed us to Vancouver: Alyona, Caitlin, Colin, and Shasta. Thank you for bringing the same Canada Zouk Congress magic to the west coast, and thank you Elena, Gregory, Helen, and Phoenix for rounding out our volunteer team.
Second, we were blessed with the support of the local Brazilian Zouk communities. Zouk in Vancouver has been around for a long time (initially spearheaded by Leanne, Felix and Sandro). Over the years, it has grown to encompass many more talented artists and organizers, like Danielle, Linda, Shawn, Kristii, Carla, and Javi that are working hard to try to promote and develop Zouk. Vancouver is very lucky to have each and every one of you be part of its journey, and we are so grateful that you have all been so supportive of Zouk the North. Of course, we can’t forget the support of Vancouver’s sister scene in Calgary that Esther, Tony, and Jane (we missed you!) have grown over the years, and which is now home to Abhi as well. We also are grateful for the support of all the other communities who put their faith in Zouk the North, including Seattle, Honolulu, Portland, San Francisco, and all those who came out in smaller groups (or flying solo) to be part of this experience.
Third, we are thankful for the hard and professional work of our teachers, performers, DJs, judges, and media crew all weekend long: Rodrigo, Italo, Abhi (Wasabhi), George (GQ Sounds), Colin (Colateral), Shasta (Shas-eh), Igor (Fraga), Raffro, Justin (Rx), EEka, Thayna, Lucas, Izabel, Rafael, Lari, Walter, Ana Reis, Pedro Lucas, Carla, Javi, Esther, Tony, Danielle, Shawn, Kristi, Sandro, Sydney, Elena, Elijah, Alyona, and Jeremy. First-year events are always a process of learning and growth – thank you for being part of that with us.
Fourth, we are honoured by the trust our attendees put into this event, and proud of how you all contributed to creating a warm, welcoming environment – including showing up to cheer on our Newcomers in their first competition and helping the event feel like a home away from home for so many.
Last, we are grateful to those who participated in our True North production, students and teachers alike to deliver our creative vision on stage. Big shout out to George (GQ Sounds) for producing the performance song. We are so happy with the reception of the show and the impact of the story.
Of course, we want to always strive to improve. Expect an email in your inbox soon asking for your feedback. Thank you, and we can’t wait to see you at Canada Zouk Congress 2024.
With Love
Darius & Laura