Varley Art Gallery of Markham partners with choreographer Zoe Kwan to present immersive dance show in Exhibition Space

MARKHAM, ON – December 16, 2025 – The Varley Art Gallery of Markham (the Varley) announces the premiere of Fractals of Possibilities, an immersive dance performance produced and choreographed by Zoe Kwan. Running from January 16 to 18, 2026 in the Varley’s exhibition space, this show is a harmonious fusion of the rich, spiritual tapestry of Chinese Martial Arts and the power of western-contemporary dance forms.

"The Varley Art Gallery supports innovative artistic voices and creating accessible cultural experiences for our community,” says Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “Fractals of Possibility is an imaginative and thought-provoking production that highlights both the depth of local talent and the cultural diversity that defines Markham.”

Fractals of Possibility explores the complexities of cause and effect, revealing how every action creates ripple effects that extend far beyond what the audience can immediately see. Drawing from Chinese Martial Arts principles such as flow, adaptation, continuity, and discipline, the piece physicalizes the sensation of navigating unfolding consequences in an ever-changing world. As the audience moves throughout the exhibition space with performers, the choreography illuminates how challenges, when reframed, can become catalysts for growth, transformation, and renewed awareness.

Zoe Kwan, a rising choreographer, dance artist, and producer from Markham, leads the creation of Fractals of Possibility. With a practice rooted in Western contemporary dance forms and Qi-Gong, Zoe has an impressive portfolio that includes work with artists like Michael Caldwell and Colleen Snell, as well as performances at festivals such as Fall For Dance North and Festival Quartiers Danses. Her previous production, Eternal Echoes (2024), created in partnership with the Varley, enjoyed two sold-out runs and strong community engagement. She has been recognized both locally and internationally, earning her the Lipson Family Endowment Award for the most promising emerging choreographer, among other accolades.

"Fractals of Possibility asks us to consider how the choices we make—big or small—shape the world around us,” says Zoe Kwan. “I’m incredibly grateful to be returning to the Varley Art Gallery with a piece that expands our exploration of movement, connection, and community. This year’s production brings together returning collaborators and new voices, deepening our creative dialogue and expanding the possibilities of what immersive performance can be.”

Fractals of Possibility is produced through Projects by Zoe Kwan, a multidisciplinary collective dedicated to creating immersive performances that transform everyday spaces into platforms for cultural conversation and community connection. Following the success of Eternal Echoes, this year’s production introduces several exciting developments, including custom handcrafted props created by a dedicated props artisan, the use of a brand-new performance space inside the exhibition galleries, and new collaborations with organizations along Main Street Unionville. Tickets are available now on Eventbrite, with a sliding scale pricing system to ensure accessibility for all members of the community.

About Fractals of Possibility:

• Dates: 
  • Friday, January 16, 2026, at 6:30 PM
  • Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 6:30 PM
  • Sunday, January 18, 2026, at 5:30 PM
• Location: Varley Art Gallery of Markham, 216 Main Street Unionville, Markham, ON
• Admission: Tickets available on Eventbrite with sliding scale pricing.
• Producer and Choreographer: Zoe Kwan
• Dancers/Collaborators: Amy Yeung, Aryana Malekzadeh, Julia Mak, Norey Lau, Shona Kiyama
• Stage Manager: Jenna Borsato
• Technical Director/Lighting Designer: Sam Alonzo
• Production Assistants/First Responders: Aaryan Dalal & Vino Jeyakanthan
• Marketing/Outreach Coordinator: Kageana Arul
• Outside Eyes: Bri Clarke
• Composer: Alex Purcell amongst others
• Partners: Varley Art Gallery of Markham, Arts Unionville Dance, OG Catering, Smash Kitchen, NextDoor Restaurant
• Funder: Canada Council for the Arts

Learn more about the Varley’s upcoming workshops and public events at VarleyArtGallery.ca.

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Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti's Office:
mayorscarpitti@markham.ca.

All other media inquiries / interview requests for the City of Markham:  
media@markham.ca. 

About Markham: Markham, an award-winning municipality with over 370,000 residents and the largest of nine communities in York Region, is home to over 650 corporate head offices and more than 1,500 high tech and life science companies. Markham is a leader in attracting foreign direct investment with more than 234 foreign companies located in the City. Founded in the 1790s, today Markham is Canada’s most diverse community and enjoys a rich heritage, outstanding community planning and services, and a vibrant local economy.

About the Varley Art Gallery of Markham: The Varley Art Gallery of Markham is a vital cultural hub for artists and diverse communities, creating meaningful conversations about Canadian art and society. The Varley inspires local and regional audiences to engage with art through outstanding exhibitions and rich public and educational programs relevant to the communities we serve. We support artists from York region and seek to broaden access to the arts for diverse artists and cultural groups. We also share and celebrate the life and work of F. H. Varley– a founding member of the Group of Seven –and other artists who have shaped artistic practice in Canada. The Varley Art Gallery of Markham is located at 216 Main Street Unionville. 

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