Ballet in Focus

In today’s Pas de Cast, we’re launching a new episode series where, rather than a specific location or film, we will be exploring how specific genres of dance intersect with cinema and technology. Ballet originated as a combination of choreographic display and social dance, and we have seen this evolve as our capacities to both choreograph and be social expand. Like a Ballet you may see In the theatre, We’re splitting today’s show into acts. In act one, we’ll talk about a range of examples of ballet on screen, from mainstream to experimental. In act two, will focus on how ballet has been and continues to be used as a tool beyond pure entertainment. Highlighted in this Episode: Pas de Deux (1968) Dir. Norman McLaren Prod. National Film Board of Canada @onf_nfb Laurencia (2013) Dir. Ben Estabrook POST BALLET - Waltz of the Snowflakes - on the naval base Chor. Robin Dekkers (they/them) Featuring Post:ballet and Berkeley Ballet Theater studio company Jess and Morgs collaborations with The Scottish Ballet @jessandmorgs Hong Kong Ballet @hongkongballet LA Dance Project & Benjamin Millepied @ladanceproject Features mentioned in this episode: The Red Shoes (1948) An American In Paris (1951) Singin’ in the Rain (1952) Children of Theatre Street (1977) Center Stage (2000) Mao’s Last Dancer (2009) The White Crow (2009) Black Swan (2010) Other Shorts mentioned in this episode: The Stop The Bailey’s Nutcracker (2013) Lil Buck with Icons of Modern Art (2016) BONUS READING: Russia: How Russia uses ballet as propaganda Soviet Broadcasts of Swan Lake are basically a political trope Ballet, propaganda and politics in the Cold War How Ballet Became a Political Football Between East and West Cuba: Defectors land on their feet The Cuban National Ballet: Sixty-six years of glory Cuban National Ballet Company Thrives Thanks to Fidel Castro China: From propaganda ballets to dance for the people -- ANNOUNCEMENTS: Meet the Frameform team in person and see dance on the big screen at the 6th annual Capitol Dance & Cinema Festival in Washington, DC Oct 8 2022. Schedule and details: www.capitoldcfestival.com Social: @capitoldcfestival Watch “The Reality of a Dream” co-presented by Dancinema and Goh Ballet this November 1-December 31 on demand at www.dancinema.co/watch Check out the International Screendance Calendar to browse a variety of opportunities including festivals, workshops, and residencies. This resource is updated regularly and is always open to contributors! – Got a question or suggestion? Email us at [email protected] – Instagram