Artist in Residence
Lynda Raino (she/her), whose career spans nearly six decades, is a celebrated Victoria-based dancer and founder of the school Raino Dance. Raino will remount Saying Goodbye to My Brother, a poignant 1988 duet originally created for herself and principal dancer Shawn Costello (1961-1989) in response to the AIDS crisis. Featuring Vancouver dancers Eowynn and Isak Enquist, the remount is part of a cross-disciplinary project STILL WITH US: A Legacy of HIV/AIDS in the Arts and will be co-presented by Dance Victoria and the Victoria Arts Council at the Baumann Centre in November.
Lynda Raino’s dance career began 59 years ago. Of all the works she has created over the decades, those inspired by real people or personal experiences hold the deepest significance for her. Her dance drama Saying Goodbye to My Brother is among her favourites, blending storytelling, physical choreography, compelling music, and authentic life experiences. Raino has cherished her roles as teacher, director of the Victoria-based Raino Dance school, performer, and choreographer. In her senior years, she continues to contribute as a mentor, outside eye, and cheerleader for emerging artists. She considers herself profoundly fortunate to have lived her life in dance—raising her sons, honouring her truth, and creating in her beloved art form.
