Merey Ismailova
Artistic Director | Choreographer | Dance Educator | Mentor
Merey Ismailova is an award-winning multidisciplinary artist and choreographer based in Toronto, specializing in the fusion of contemporary dance and physical theatre. As the driving force behind Ismailova Theatre of Dance, she has spent over a decade creating evocative productions that bridge the gap between movement and narrative, including acclaimed works such as The Cuckoo’s Nest (first in the world dance adaptation of the iconic novel by Ken Kesey) and first in North America contemporary ballet Master and Margarita to name a few.
Merey’s artistic foundation is built upon extensive international training, spanning the Ballet Creole Professional Training Program in Toronto to intensives in Montreal, the UK, Spain, Germany and the USA.
A prominent figure in the Toronto arts community, Merey is a twice recipient of the Toronto Arts Foundation and RBC Newcomer Artist Award as well as holding an Honorable Mention at the Grow North Awards by the North York Arts.
Most notably Merey’s recent work won in a nationwide competition by the Canada Council for the Arts.
Beyond the stage, Merey is a dedicated educator and movement coach. She has served as a workshop facilitator for various international festivals and community events.
Merey is also a mentor who created an unparalleled Artist Leadership Training program for the Toronto's young artist leaders of tomorrow.
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