Bodies in Impact | International Student Competition

Dance emerges in response to profound moments in this poetic and allegorical screening of the Cinedans International Student Competition. Themes of growing up, overwhelming anxiety, sleepless nights, loss, existential quests, and our complex relationship with technology inspire young makers to craft dances that propel us forward, offering both reflection and resilience.

The programme is accompanied by a Q&A with the makers.

My name is the sound I use to introduce myself

NL | 2023 | 9’

Director/Choreographer: Albert Rask

A group of young men waltz in pairs, balancing with a glass between their foreheads. In this captivating setting, director Albert Rask crafts a new code of conduct - an allegory reflecting the experience of growing up. A playful yet poignant exploration that reframes the burdens of responsibility, expectations and the rules of adulthood.

Sleepless Until I Die

US | 2024 | 9’ | World Premiere

Director: Chorong Yang, Jiaqi Yu | Choreographer: Chorong Yang

Three people tormented by relentless anxiety and prolonged sleeplessness, slowly lose their human forms. As their condition worsens, they evolve into monsters, doomed to an eternity without rest.

Chiquita Piconera

ES | 2024 | 12’ | Dutch Premiere

Director: Mey Montero | Choreographer: Abel González, Rubén Rojo

After the death of her youngest daughter, Carmen is unable to face her loss, haunted by the constant presence of her ghost. Guided by her eldest daughter, she embarks on a journey through grief, finding expression in the power of flamenco.

A Last Dance

FR | 2024 | 6’ | World Premiere

Director: Rami Al Rabih | Choreographer: Néphélie Peingnez, Leïla Seri Hartel

Néphélie reluctantly agrees to meet Leila one last time to finish their ongoing video dance project. While they dance, the weight of their charged history begins to surface.

Better Not Kill the Groove

CH | 2024 | 7’ | Dutch Premiere

Director: Jonathan Leggett

In search for his identity through scootering and self-development, a young boy explores his relationship to his body and emotions. Composed of footage collected online, the film chronicles the character’s attempts to navigate his existential dismay.

Disconnected

ES | 2024 | 5’ | Dutch Premiere

Director: Roger Bayerri | Choreographer: Kike Granero

Smartphones have undeniably transformed the way we live, impacting nearly every aspect of our daily lives. A crew of young dancers explore the effects of technology through a dynamic interplay between dance and camera.

North Pole

LV | 2024 | 22’ | Dutch Premiere

Director: Roberts Vanags | Choreographer: Karīna Lapšina

Max, a young ice cream vendor with aspirations of becoming a techno musician, is paralyzed by fear just before stepping on stage at a rave club. Forced on an introspective yet visually expressive journey, Max is confronted by his insecurity and the cold presence of Alex, the guardian of loneliness. But when he unexpectedly meets the charming Helen, she is determined to free him from the clutches of self-doubt.