Professional dancer Misheel Ganbold, who graduated in Canada and has showcased her talent through various dance projects and companies, is set to present her choreographed contemporary dance piece, "A Day in Mongolia," in her home country.
Misheel choreographed this piece in 2022. It uniquely portrays the lifestyle and traditions of Mongolians through the medium of contemporary dance. The project is supported by the National Arts Fund of Canada and the Ministry of Culture, Sports, Tourism, and Youth of Mongolia. The performance will premiere on December 18th at the Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet.
Additionally, Misheel is collaborating with Canadian directors and artists to produce a short film as part of the "A Day in Mongolia" project.
Misheel has performed at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics and has worked with renowned Canadian artists such as Laurence Nerbonne, KNLO, Alaclair Ensemble, and internationally acclaimed names like Celine Dion, Apashe, Jean-Michel Blais, and Giza Planit. She shared her story in an exclusive interview for our "People" section.
- Why were you drawn to dance?
- I’ve loved dancing since I was young, but I never told my mother. I played the piano and participated in various sports instead. I even secretly signed up for a dance class. I used to spend hours choreographing in my room, imagining I was performing on stage. It always felt like my true calling.
Even as a child, I knew I was destined for the arts. My father, who sadly passed away when I was very young, was also an artist. So, perhaps my artistic inclination is in my blood.
During high school, I watched a performance by contemporary dancer Nina Wollney, and it left me in awe. That was the moment I realized contemporary dance was my path.
From 2011 to 2015, Misheel studied dance at the Conservatoire de danse in Quebec, Canada. After graduation, she joined prestigious programs such as Springboard Dance Montreal and performed with renowned companies like Batsheva Dance Company and GöteborgsOperans Danskompani.
Can you tell us more about your upcoming performance?
In 2022, I decided to return to Mongolia. During the pandemic, Canada provided financial support for artists, and it made me think a lot about my homeland—how the art community and artists in Mongolia were coping. That’s how this project was born.
When the borders reopened, I immediately came back. Since 2011, I’ve been closely connected with traditional Mongolian dancers, learning about the history and culture of Mongolian art through them. I introduced my project idea to local dancers without mentioning money or holding auditions, simply asking if anyone was interested in joining. Eleven dancers responded enthusiastically, which was amazing. Of course, it also brought the responsibility of paying them out of my own budget.
What challenges did you face while developing this project?
Creating this project independently was challenging at times. Having lived in Canada since I was six, I’ve developed a Western mindset. In Mongolia, connections often seem necessary to get things done. But I’ve stayed true to my values, introducing myself and using every opportunity to move forward.
Another challenge was that many of my dancers belonged to other troupes or ensembles. Sometimes, they’re called away for important performances or rehearsals, and I have to adjust my schedule. As a Mongolian, I understand this dynamic, but it could be hard for foreigners to grasp.
For this project, I’ve worn many hats—choreographer, filmmaker, costume designer, and even lighting technician. But I believe Mongolian women are incredibly capable. My mother and sister, for example, inspire me with their strength and resilience.
This past summer, I had the opportunity to participate in the opening ceremonies of the Paris Olympics.
- I was honored to be part of both the Olympic and Paralympic opening ceremonies. The process started with submitting my application, after which I received an invitation to participate in the selection rounds. The selection process lasted over four months. A fun fact: out of all the participants, I was the only dancer selected from both Canada and Mongolia—quite a unique achievement! The most exciting part was getting the chance to perform in two historic events, which was an incredible experience despite the intense workload. I’m truly grateful to have been part of such a monumental occasion.
"THERE ARE MANY WONDERFUL THINGS IN MONGOLIA"
Why the title “A Day in Mongolia?
Since childhood, my family has displayed Marzan Sharav’s painting ‘A Day in Mongolia’ at home. It’s a simple yet profound piece encapsulating Mongolia’s culture and traditions. I’ve always admired it and wondered what it would be like to express it through dance.
How do you see Mongolia evolving?
Whenever I return to Mongolia, some people immediately point out the challenges—traffic, pollution, and frustration. But I see potential and progress. Development always comes with its difficulties. I view issues like traffic and pollution as temporary. Having spent most of my life abroad, I deeply appreciate the beauty of Mongolia. The scent of the trees and the freshness after rain are things I haven’t experienced in Canada. I’m proud to be Mongolian and to contribute to showcasing its unique beauty to the world.
What’s next for you?
I’m thrilled to present my project on December 18th, and I’m also excited about the documentary we’ve produced. It will premiere next year and be featured at international festivals.
Growing up, I often felt that documentaries about Mongolia lacked depth or perspective. I hope to bridge that gap, offering an authentic portrayal through my film. It highlights the challenges of being a Mongolian artist abroad and celebrates the beauty of our culture.
Thank you for sharing your journey. Good luck or your performance!
Professional dancer Misheel Ganbold, who graduated in Canada and has showcased her talent through various dance projects and companies, is set to present her choreographed contemporary dance piece, "A Day in Mongolia," in her home country.
Misheel choreographed this piece in 2022. It uniquely portrays the lifestyle and traditions of Mongolians through the medium of contemporary dance. The project is supported by the National Arts Fund of Canada and the Ministry of Culture, Sports, Tourism, and Youth of Mongolia. The performance will premiere on December 18th at the Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet.
Additionally, Misheel is collaborating with Canadian directors and artists to produce a short film as part of the "A Day in Mongolia" project.
Misheel has performed at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics and has worked with renowned Canadian artists such as Laurence Nerbonne, KNLO, Alaclair Ensemble, and internationally acclaimed names like Celine Dion, Apashe, Jean-Michel Blais, and Giza Planit. She shared her story in an exclusive interview for our "People" section.
- Why were you drawn to dance?
- I’ve loved dancing since I was young, but I never told my mother. I played the piano and participated in various sports instead. I even secretly signed up for a dance class. I used to spend hours choreographing in my room, imagining I was performing on stage. It always felt like my true calling.
Even as a child, I knew I was destined for the arts. My father, who sadly passed away when I was very young, was also an artist. So, perhaps my artistic inclination is in my blood.
During high school, I watched a performance by contemporary dancer Nina Wollney, and it left me in awe. That was the moment I realized contemporary dance was my path.
From 2011 to 2015, Misheel studied dance at the Conservatoire de danse in Quebec, Canada. After graduation, she joined prestigious programs such as Springboard Dance Montreal and performed with renowned companies like Batsheva Dance Company and GöteborgsOperans Danskompani.
Can you tell us more about your upcoming performance?
In 2022, I decided to return to Mongolia. During the pandemic, Canada provided financial support for artists, and it made me think a lot about my homeland—how the art community and artists in Mongolia were coping. That’s how this project was born.
When the borders reopened, I immediately came back. Since 2011, I’ve been closely connected with traditional Mongolian dancers, learning about the history and culture of Mongolian art through them. I introduced my project idea to local dancers without mentioning money or holding auditions, simply asking if anyone was interested in joining. Eleven dancers responded enthusiastically, which was amazing. Of course, it also brought the responsibility of paying them out of my own budget.
What challenges did you face while developing this project?
Creating this project independently was challenging at times. Having lived in Canada since I was six, I’ve developed a Western mindset. In Mongolia, connections often seem necessary to get things done. But I’ve stayed true to my values, introducing myself and using every opportunity to move forward.
Another challenge was that many of my dancers belonged to other troupes or ensembles. Sometimes, they’re called away for important performances or rehearsals, and I have to adjust my schedule. As a Mongolian, I understand this dynamic, but it could be hard for foreigners to grasp.
For this project, I’ve worn many hats—choreographer, filmmaker, costume designer, and even lighting technician. But I believe Mongolian women are incredibly capable. My mother and sister, for example, inspire me with their strength and resilience.
This past summer, I had the opportunity to participate in the opening ceremonies of the Paris Olympics.
- I was honored to be part of both the Olympic and Paralympic opening ceremonies. The process started with submitting my application, after which I received an invitation to participate in the selection rounds. The selection process lasted over four months. A fun fact: out of all the participants, I was the only dancer selected from both Canada and Mongolia—quite a unique achievement! The most exciting part was getting the chance to perform in two historic events, which was an incredible experience despite the intense workload. I’m truly grateful to have been part of such a monumental occasion.
"THERE ARE MANY WONDERFUL THINGS IN MONGOLIA"
Why the title “A Day in Mongolia?
Since childhood, my family has displayed Marzan Sharav’s painting ‘A Day in Mongolia’ at home. It’s a simple yet profound piece encapsulating Mongolia’s culture and traditions. I’ve always admired it and wondered what it would be like to express it through dance.
How do you see Mongolia evolving?
Whenever I return to Mongolia, some people immediately point out the challenges—traffic, pollution, and frustration. But I see potential and progress. Development always comes with its difficulties. I view issues like traffic and pollution as temporary. Having spent most of my life abroad, I deeply appreciate the beauty of Mongolia. The scent of the trees and the freshness after rain are things I haven’t experienced in Canada. I’m proud to be Mongolian and to contribute to showcasing its unique beauty to the world.
What’s next for you?
I’m thrilled to present my project on December 18th, and I’m also excited about the documentary we’ve produced. It will premiere next year and be featured at international festivals.
Growing up, I often felt that documentaries about Mongolia lacked depth or perspective. I hope to bridge that gap, offering an authentic portrayal through my film. It highlights the challenges of being a Mongolian artist abroad and celebrates the beauty of our culture.
Thank you for sharing your journey. Good luck or your performance!