Blog: Film festivals

The Cyprus Dance Film Festival is the most important film festival for filmmakers and dancers in Cyprus.

Our purpose is to celebrate the art of dance films, the joy of dance and the passion for music and filmmaking. We bring the dance filmmaking art to the big screen and top that with a unique after event dance party.

We value your work and promote your dance film all over the year on our social media with a rapidly growing number of followers. We give you space on our platform for background information regarding your work and your regular news.

You and your team members are welcome to join the glamorous red carpet event and award ceremony taking place at the Rialto Theater in Limassol on the 5th of November 2023.

Our festival is organized by “Cult Experiences”, which helps dancers, choreographers, producers, directors, actors, screenwriters, musicians and many other artists showcasing their voice.

What we consider a Dance Film:

A dance film, also known as a screen dance, dance-based film, is a genre of film that focuses primarily on dance as its central theme or storytelling element. Dance films typically feature choreographed dance sequences as a prominent aspect of the narrative or as the primary form of artistic expression. These films often combine elements of dance, music, and visual storytelling to create a unique cinematic experience.

In a dance film, the plot may revolve around a specific dance style or form, the journey of a dancer or dance group, or the exploration of dance as a means of personal or cultural expression. The narrative structure can vary, ranging from straightforward stories to abstract or experimental formats that emphasize the physicality and visual aesthetics of dance.

Dance films can encompass various dance styles, including ballet, contemporary dance, hip-hop, jazz, tap, and cultural or traditional forms of dance. They can be fictional narratives or documentaries that showcase real-life dancers, dance companies, or dance competitions.

Judging criteria Dance Film:
- Music
- Script / Scenario / Idea
- Dance Skills
- Choreography
- Directing
- Performances / Acting
- Cinematography
- Production Design
- Costume Design
- Editing
- Hair & Makeup
- Creativity
- Originality
- Emotion

What do we consider A Dance Photograph?

Dance photography is a genre of photography that focuses on capturing the artistry, movement, and physicality of dancers. It involves photographing dancers during their performances, rehearsals, or in specially arranged photo shoots. The aim is to freeze a moment of motion and convey the grace, athleticism, and expression of the dancer through the medium of photography.

Dance photography requires a good understanding of both photography techniques and the nuances of dance. It involves capturing dynamic poses, jumps, leaps, turns, and fluid movements that dancers perform. Photographers often work closely with dancers and choreographers to create visually striking images that showcase the beauty and energy of dance.

Dance photography can be seen in various contexts, including promotional materials for dance companies, dance magazines, online publications, and personal artistic projects. It not only documents the performances but also serves as a form of artistic expression, capturing the emotion, storytelling, and the spirit of dance through the lens of a camera.

Judging criteria Photography:
- Composition
- Photographic Technique
- Visual Storytelling
- Theme
- Aesthetics
- Impact
- Dancer's Performance
- Production Design
- Styling
- Hair & Makeup
- Representation of Movement
- Creativity
- Originality
- Emotion