Founded by Olivier Wevers, a former ballet dancer with dreams of choreographing and leading his own company, Whim W’Him has established itself as a space for innovation and creativity in dance. This season’s program features three new works that showcase the diverse talents of its company members and guest choreographers. Among these, Wevers’ “Unconditional” starts the show with a poignant exploration of connection and solitude, setting a reflective tone that carries through the evening.
“Unconditional” is a dance of subtlety and introspection, with the staging—a solitary figure emerging from the foggy gray mist drawing the audience into a world of quiet contemplation. This piece and two other premieres by Robyn Mineko Williams and Cameron Fraser-Monroe illustrate the company’s ongoing commitment to presenting fresh, thought-provoking dance works.
Robyn Mineko Williams’ “Ito” delves into the complexities of human relationships through a minimalist set and emotive choreography, suggesting scenes from its characters’ past, present, and perhaps future lives. Meanwhile, “SCRAP,” the program’s final piece by Canadian choreographer Cameron Fraser-Monroe, shifts the mood with its vibrant fusion of First Nations dance, jazz, and funk, ending the night on a high note with its dynamic energy and crowd-pleasing performance.
For Vashon residents, the arrival of Whim W’Him offers more than just an evening of entertainment. It’s a manifestation of the island’s growing role as a cultural hub in Puget Sound, an opportunity for local audiences to experience avant-garde dance that might typically be reserved for larger city venues. This performance brings world-class contemporary dance closer to home and strengthens the artistic bonds between Vashon Island and Seattle, highlighting the rich cultural exchange that enhances our community life.
The inclusion of Vashon in Whim W’Him’s schedule underscores the importance of supporting local arts venues. By attending performances like Winter ‘25, residents can contribute to a flourishing arts scene on the island, ensuring that Vashon continues to attract diverse artistic talents and remains a vibrant center for cultural engagement.