PEOPLE OF DJD//

There are many people that make up the community at the DJD Dance Centre. From artists, administrators, volunteers and beyond, these walls are pulsing with personality.

RUBIM DE TOLDEO
Musical Director, Bass and Banjo

1.HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING WITH DJD?

My first experience with DJD was playing bass in the Cuban-inspired show, Bulla, back in 2005. Since then I have worked extensively as one of DJD’s musical directors. I have been musical director and composer for 11 DJD shows.

2.HOW IS EACH EXPERIENCE WITH DJD DIFFERENT FROM ONE ANOTHER?

Musically each show deals with different Jazz-influenced musical genres or styles. Sometimes it is very traditional jazz and other times very contemporary and modern. As well, DJD’s music can incorporate World music elements like African, Brazilian, and Cuban styles. Other styles we have utilized are hip-hop, funk, R’n’B, blues, and electronic music influences.   

3.TELL US ABOUT THE MUSICAL STYLINGS FOR LOVESTRUCK. WHAT IS THE INSPIRATION?

Musically, the inspiration for Lovestruck, roughly-speaking, came from 1920 to 40’s jazz, New Orleans, and blues influences. With Lovestruck we have tried to capture the essence of that era and those styles while still pushing the sound of the production forward in time. It was a real challenge to try to retain a classic sound while pushing those barriers with vast modern-sounding soundscapes. With the musical score for Lovestruck I tried to include many diverse sonic influences that would keep the audience engaged, curious, and entertained while not risking distracting from the visual era established by the choreography, set, and costumes.