Over the last few weeks, about 20 dancers have filed a complaint with the Union des artistes (UDA) against star choreographer Steve Bolton, who works on Radio Canada’s ” Les Dieux De La Danse” and TVA’s “La Voix” as well as in musical comedy hits like Foot Loose and Mary Poppins.
Complaints include physical and verbal violence during rehearsals, bursts of anger, and a general attitude of abuse of power. He is also accused of refusing to give breaks to dancers or to let them drink during rehearsals, which are so long and intense that they often cause injuries to dancers. These are just some of the facts identified by the Union of Artists (UDA) in the case against the star choreographer.
More serious allegations of physical abuse from ex-8-Count dancer, Marie-Ève Gingras detail an incident where Bolton repeatedly struck her on the hip when she could not properly execute a dance move during rehearsals.
Native to Montreal, Steve Bolton has taught, danced and judged all over the world. He is the founder and owner of 8-Count Dance Studio located on Brunswick in Dollard des Ormeaux.
These allegations have come to light courtesy of an article by La Presse. To read the full French details, click here.
