Opening Ceremony

The Opening Ceremony of Cinedans FEST '26 will feature a preview of what can be seen and experienced throughout the festival, spotlighting remarkable works by artists who translate urgent realities into movement and image. The evening features a beautiful selection of dance films from around the world - works that provoke, challenge, and captivate. We will also showcase a first look at our curated special programs, alongside exclusive previews of documentaries and new homegrown dance films.

Short films

The following films are part of the programme and will be screened in full: Baleines by director Sylvain Dufayard and choreographers Nicole Mossoux and Patrick Bonté, a meditative exploration of the ocean’s breathtaking beauty. The energetic short documentary Pavilhão by director Victoria Fiore and choreographer Karol Jurga, about the origins of samba. The Rider by director Sebastián Lelio, focusing on Doma India and the age-old relationship between humans and horses. Also featured is the latest film by choreographer and director Emma Evelein, Born Into You, in which she herself shines alongside the incomparable Remy Tilburg.

Bhangra

This year, Cinedans shines a spotlight on India. We’re kicking off the opening with vibrant performances by Amisha Kumra, Amsterdam Bhangra and Bholi brothers.

Amsterdam Bhangra and Dholi Brothers transport you straight to Punjab in North India, immersing you in its vibrant culture and energy. Bhangra itself originated among Punjabi farmers as a joyful, communal celebration of the harvest, and today it continues to embody that same spirit of unity, rhythm, and festivity - as a celebrating opening of the Cinedans FEST ’26!

Join the dancefloor with DJ Misha after the opening screening, spinning black electronic music with South Asian frequencies.