MONTREAL, Quebec – Ken Roy, Montreal, Quebec passed away on January 28, 2012 surrounded by his family and closest friends, after a courageous year long battle with cancer.
Kenneth David Alexander Roy was born in New Glasgow, NS, March 24, 1963 the son of Elva Roy and the late Jack Roy.
After graduating from New Glasgow High School Ken went on to study at Dalhousie University’s Theatre Department. Ken became one of Canada’s premier contemporary dancers performing in over 30 productions and six films. He worked with many of our country’s finest choreographers. Ken started his career with Le Groupe de la Place Royale in Ottawa under the direction of artistic director Peter Boneham. He later joined his mentor Jean-Pierre Perreault in Montreal, for whom he danced for over ten years. Ken performed throughout Canada, Scotland, Europe and Australia. In addition to performing Ken was involved in the direction of a number of productions. Ken taught contemporary dance for almost 20 years, the last seven years at Concordia University.
Ken tackled his illness with courage, dignity and determination. He remained a powerful force until his death. He never lost his sense of humour nor his fondness for Chopin, Montreal’s famous Orange Julep, or trash TV.
Ken is survived by his partner Louis-Elyan Martin, Montreal; his mother Elva, Kings Head, NS; brothers: John (Maxine), Perth Australia; Terry, Edmonton; Richard, Calgary; Rob (Liz Van den Eynden), Kings Head, NS; and sisters, Linda Fox, Toronto and Katie (Sandy) MacDonald, Black Point, NS; and his seven nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his father Jack.
Ken’s family will be forever grateful to his close friends in Montreal who we came to know as our own family over this past year. Your friendship and support of Ken through his illness was incredibly important to him, and brought a sense of comfort to our family. The importance of this is not possible to fully express. We are also grateful to all members of the dance community in Montreal and beyond who provided their support to Ken and to those who opened their homes for us during our weekly visits.
A service in Ken’s honour will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday February 11, 2012 at Glasgow Square Theatre, New Glasgow.
A visitation with family and friends will immediately follow, until 4 p.m. A Tribute to Ken’s career is being organized by members of the Montreal dance community and will be held this spring in Montreal.
Family flowers only. Donations may be made in Ken’s name to the Canadian Cancer Society or to a worthwhile performing arts initiative.