TRACES Dance Ensemble is a unique contemporary dance company based in Waterford, Ireland. Their work challenges perceptions about dance and disability by creating and presenting work that communicates potent messages of empowerment and identity. Key to the creative processes are the dancers own reflections, their personal challenges and their roles as advocates for human rights and inclusion of people who have Down syndrome. TRACES dancers contribute to all decision-making and are confident in voicing opinions. They are generous collaborators, hard working, brave and open to challenges. The tangible atmosphere of trust and respect nurtured within the group is communicated to their audiences.
Traces Dance Ensemble was born from an event in the Helix, Dublin, for the 10th World Down Syndrome Congress August 2009.
This event, a collaborative Dance project involving various groups from around the country, was the highlight social event of the Congress. During this event the Waterford Branch members, under the the direction of Libby Seward, preformed “Living our Dreams” to rave reviews.
This event was very well received and had the audience on their feet applauding.
TRACES Dance Ensemble “Living Our Dreams” from Libby Seward on Vimeo.
Soon after Traces Ensemble & Junior Traces was founded and have continued to wow audiences with their interpretive dance. They have travelled to various Dance festivals throughout Ireland.
In 2012 Traces Dance Ensemble with the generous support of the Arts Council of Ireland, Down Syndrome Ireland and the Waterford Branch of Down Syndrome Ireland, Waterford County Council, Waterford City Council and Garter Lane Arts Centre, Waterford created “I See You See Me”
“‘I See You See Me” conveys with sensitivity and tenderness the relationships between the dancers. Emotions and personal stories are expressed with physical eloquence in a seamless dialogue with the filmmaker. This intimate and engaging short dance film is a testament to the high artistic values embraced by TRACES dancers and artistic team.
Please watch our film…
This Film including a short documentary on The Making of “I See You See Me” is available for purchase. Please contact Garter Lane Box Office to secure a copy. TheVD costs €10
Libby Seward travelled to the 12th World Down Syndrome Congress in South Africa to showcase this film and it was very well received.
Traces Ensemble are always looking for new members age 15 +
and Junior Traces ages 8- 14
Please contact us if you are interested.
We in the Waterford Branch want to thank Libby Seward for her continuing commitment to our members.