Did you know Thermea Spa Village Whitby is hosting Canada’s first National Sauna Performance Championship? June 17, 18 and 19, Aufgusshow will be taking over the Spa Village. During those three days, 18 show Aufguss will take place in Logga—the largest event sauna in the country—and 20 Aufgussmeister will get to show off their skills to spectators and judges. The ultimate goal? To win and represent Canada on the world stage in Italy.

Out of those 20 Aufgussmeister, 3 are from Winnipeg. Let’s meet them before their big day, so we can cheer even louder when their performance comes.

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Amara Conde

Tell Us About Yourself

I am a musician, dancer and acrobat born in Coyah, Guinea. I began circus training in 2008 with the Guinean troupe Benka Fissa where I studied, among other things, tumbling and breakdancing. I then joined Cavalia by Odysseo where I toured around the world. I started working at Thermea Spa Village Winnipeg as a Ritual Artisan in November 2021 it was my first time practising Aufguss.

What Does the Aufguss Community Mean to You?

The Aufguss community means everything to me. It reminds me of my small community in Africa. And I can’t wait to showcase elements of African tradition in my performance for Aufgusshow.

When to Watch Amara’s Performance: June 19 at 4 p.m.

Quincy Hiebert

Tell Us About Yourself

Born in Winnipeg in 2003, I developed a passion for contemporary dance, music, and performance early on. Training with mentors across Canada, I honed my skills in choreography before seeking a new challenge. In 2023, I discovered Thermea Spa Village and left the dance world to embrace Aufguss, learning towel-waving from an incredible team.

What’s a Unique Artistic Element You Use During Aufguss?

I was immediately drawn to the fan—a rarely used but powerful tool in contemporary dance. While initially met with skepticism, it captivated audiences, both mesmerizing and surprising them with its airflow. Blending contemporary dance with towel work brings a fresh, dynamic edge to my performances. Aufguss has allowed me to develop a unique style while making a meaningful impact on guests seeking relaxation and healing. Knowing I can brighten someone’s day through movement brings me immense joy.

When to Watch Quincy’s Performance: June 17 at 11 a.m.

HOW QUINCY IS PREPARING

Tasha Konkin

Tell Us About Yourself

I have a deep passion for ritual, nature, and the elements. I have been blending heat, aroma, and movement in the sensory experience of Aufguss for just over 2 years now. I love drawing inspiration from herbalism, sound healing, and the spirit of the natural world to bring harmony into the sauna.

How Do You Define the Aufguss Community?

The Aufguss community to me is a group of artists, mastering the elements of air by moving with the towel, working with earth through herbs and essential oils, fire/heat and water/ice. Transforming the space of the sauna into a unique experience special to each artist. To create these moods, evoke a feeling and give people an experience that brings happiness, healing or hope is something that lights me up and makes me enjoy doing what I do in the sauna every day.

When to Watch Tasha’s Performance: June 17 at 6 p.m.