soma anima arts (Kinesis Dance Society) is a contemporary dance organization based in so-called Vancouver, on the unceded territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Peoples. Founded in 1986 by Greek-Canadian choreographer Paraskevas Terezakis, the company has built a legacy of bold, socially conscious performance. In 2024, a significant artistic shift took place as Vancouver-based dance artist Rachel Helten assumed leadership, ushering in a new era of compassionate, interdisciplinary creation.
Rachel’s vision is rooted in care, deep listening, and collaborative inquiry. Her work explores the connection between body and spirit, using vulnerability as a catalyst for transformation, healing, and liberation. Under her direction, soma anima arts embraces holistic well-being, artistic risk-taking, and social engagement, centering compassion, presence, and equity in all aspects of creation.
With 39 years of history, soma anima arts balances legacy with evolution. Our programming includes original choreographic works, residencies, public presentations in theatres and alternative spaces, and intergenerational, community-engaged workshops. We serve professional artists, youth, elders, emerging dance makers, all-abilities, and culturally diverse communities.
As a women-led organization, we foster environments where artists and participants can flourish through shared expression. Dance, for us, is a tool for belonging, connection, and resistance. Whether in the studio, on stage, or in community, we create spaces where embodied artmaking becomes a vehicle for reflection, dialogue, and imagining new ways of being in the world—with integrity, depth, and care at the heart of everything we do.