Wairarapa Dancer Amelia Butcher Brings Avenoir Home for Finale

Amelia Butcher, a talented dancer and choreographer from Carterton, is set to conclude her successful tour of the contemporary dance show Avenoir on October 10, 2023, at the Wairarapa Events Centre. This performance marks the final stop in a series of shows that have captivated audiences across the North Island, including cities like Palmerston North, Wellington, Auckland, and Rotorua.

With a strong commitment to her craft, Butcher, who is only 24 years old, has already produced five shows over the past three years under her creative brand, Jenire. This brand, inspired by the names of her grandmothers, seeks to transform passion into movement and foster a deep connection between performers and their audience.

Avenoir: A Unique Concept in Dance

The show Avenoir explores the intriguing notion of experiencing life in reverse, allowing the audience to contemplate the memories—both positive and negative—that precede each moment. Butcher not only choreographed and directed the show but also performed alongside eight other dancers, showcasing her versatility and dedication.

Reflecting on her journey, Butcher stated, “It will be nice to come home.” Her connection to Carterton runs deep, having previously trained in various dance styles such as jazz, tap, hip hop, and ballet. She holds a Diploma in Commercial Dance and a Bachelor in Creativity from the Te Auaha institute in Wellington.

This year, Butcher benefited from the inaugural Carterton Events Centre Artist Residency, where she developed the Avenoir project. With only seven weeks to prepare before the first performance, the group dedicated countless hours to rehearsals, showcasing their commitment to excellence.

A Bright Future Ahead

In addition to her performance work, Butcher juggles teaching commitments across Wairarapa and Wellington, along with providing private dance tutoring throughout the North Island. As the final performance approaches, she is already contemplating her next project. She draws inspiration from language and the meanings behind intriguing words, eager to elevate her work further.

Butcher expressed her desire for future performances to represent a “step up” from her previous achievements, whether through new locations or by offering more dance workshops in local schools.

Tickets for Avenoir are priced at $25 and are available for purchase on the events centre’s website. With an impressive track record and a clear vision for the future, Butcher is poised to continue making significant contributions to the world of contemporary dance.