Davi Rodrigues

Brazilian-born Canadian citizen Davi Rodrigues is a contemporary dance choreographer and educator whose 30-year career is defined by a fierce commitment to original artistic practice and the empowerment of the individual dancer. As the Artistic Director of Lamondance in Vancouver, Davi has transformed the organization into a registered charity and a vital pillar of the Canadian arts scene, leading with a philosophy that rejects antiquated "command-and-control" teaching in favor of a proximity-focused, human-centric mentorship.

His pedagogical foundation is rooted in studies of Physical Education at the Universidade Católica de Brasília (UCB), providing a deep, demographic-specific understanding of movement and body mechanics. This technical grounding is reinforced by modern leadership credentials, including a Cultural Safety certification from Len Pierre Consulting and status as a Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator, based on the research of Brené Brown. These tools allow Davi to create high-energy, high-intensity studio environments that remain inclusive, psychologically safe, and grounded in vulnerability and courage.

Davi’s professional history is a testament to his versatility and creative stamina. He performed professionally for five years with Aplauso Cia de Dança (Dir. Junior O’Hara) and dedicated 14 years to Cia Criatividança in Brazil, where he produced eight full-length works. Since relocating to Vancouver in 2008, he has been a vital architect of the local dance landscape, instrumental in developing and expanding contemporary programming across the region. A respected voice in the global dance community, Davi frequently serves as an adjudicator for both local and international dance festivals, bringing a unique perspective on artistic capability to the judging panel.

At the helm of Lamondance, his output has been exceptionally prolific, with 27 full-length creations celebrated for their visceral emotionality. This commitment to storytelling also extends to the literary world; as an active author of dark fantasy fiction, Davi translates his choreographic intensity into professional-level prose, notably with his 2025 novel Black Feather and his upcoming project, Mortals and Saints.

In recognition of his significant impact, Davi was honored with the 17th Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award in 2025. This accolade underscores a career dedicated to excellence, equity, and the belief that a dancer's success is found by supporting their unique capabilities rather than demanding conformity.