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Holy Body Tattoo makes monumental return with Godspeed

Storied Vancouver dance troupe Holy Body Tattoo has teamed up with Montreal mavericks Godspeed You Black Emperor.
Holy Body Tattoo is known for their physically-punishing, punk-inspired routines. (Chris Randle/Holy Body Tattoo)

Holy Body Tattoo built a reputation for gruelling, punk-inspired routines in the 1990s, anchoring their craft in Vancouver's much-maligned Downtown Eastside. But for the last decade, the small, independent dance company was on hiatus. 

Now an exciting collaboration with Montreal's Godspeed You! Black Emperor — the Polaris Prize winning band that famously blasted the award — has brought the troupe back into the spotlight.

Holy Body Tattoo is re-staging their 2005 work Monumental.  It originally featured recorded music by Godspeed You! Black Emperor -- but for this production, the band will perform their part live.

Today, Holy Body Tattoo founder Dana Gingras joins Shad to discuss the re-staged work, how East Hastings shaped their style, and how the irreverent band will transform their already standout choreography. 

WEB EXTRA | Watch the trailer for Monumental, which will soon take place at Vancouver's Push Festival.