Danseur - Film Fundraiser

The New Zealand School of Dance, the Royal Academy of Dance host the NZ première of the highly acclaimed film that tackles serious issues of bullying and negative stereotypes of males in dance, DANSEUR screens for the first time in New Zealand on Wednesday 3 October at Wellington’s Embassy Theatre. Following the screening attendees will have the opportunity for an exclusive Q&A with the film’s director Scott Gormley (USA) and a panel of industry professionals.

New York-based filmmaker Scott Gormley’s documentary explores issues experienced by young men in ballet and follows several male dancers, some gay, some straight, and portrays with frank honesty their relationship with those stereotypes associated with men in dance. The film examines how boys overcome the barriers of social bias, and tells this story through the eyes of artists from some of America’s major ballet companies, as well as young aspiring male dancers.

“I’ve spent the last two years creating a documentary about the struggles that young men face when they choose to dance ballet….while directing and producing Danseur, I’ve seen over and over again the clear-cut lines we draw on society around what boys “should” and “shouldn’t” do.” Scott Gormley – The Advocate.com

It’s too often the case that young boys stop dancing because of bullying, not because they have lost their passion for dance. The NZSD and RAD actively support the pursuit of dance as a career for boys. The School is flying filmmaker, Scott Gormley to NZ from New York to host the NZ Première to discuss this global issue on local ground.

The Royal Academy of Dance and Project B feel privileged to co-host this important event. “As a global organisation supporting young people to learn and have opportunities to grow creatively through dance, the RAD has for some time been acutely aware of the stigma associated with boys learning dance. Hence, the introduction of Project B – an initiative to highlight the energy, athleticism and commitment that dance demands – and it is these very qualities that can attract boys to dance. The way in which the movie DANSEUR highlights the struggles that some boys go through to realise their dream to dance, is an important social message that the RAD and NZSD are proud to present.” Bronwyn Williams, National Director NZ Royal Academy of Dance

The New Zealand School of Dance and RAD hope that this premiere will initiate an important dialogue around these issues and feel proud to support young people pursuing their dreams. The release of this film is of utmost importance not only to boys who dance but also for anyone who faces obstacles whilst pursuing their passion to forge a career.

Danseur – Film Fundraiser
3 October 2018, 6.30pm
At the Embassy Theatre - 10 Kent Terrace, Wellington

Tickets available: www.nzschoolofdance.ac.nz/events/danseur

VIEW THE TRAILER HERE...