“Visibility: Self Reflections” films to premiere April 2024
Dance Camera West’s (DCW) “Visibility: Self Reflections” project has launched. This unique program gives Kern County residents a chance to see five new films from local artists that tell the stories of people living in the Central Valleys through choreographic iterations captured on film.
DCW is a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles that uses cinema to amplify the reach and impact of dance. The production teams for this project are experienced California filmmakers, choreographers, and community members. They are committed to creating impactful and meaningful content that empowers and amplifies voices often marginalized in the arts and society, specifically those living in the Central Valleys
The production teams paid for their work with the help of the KDA Creative Corps grant. The “Visibility: Self Reflections” film project lasted 11 months and included three phases: Prepare, Produce and Present.
During the Prepare phase, a 25-member community choir learned the vocals and choreography of California choreographer Sandy Silva’s Migration Dance Film Project under Lindsay Sharp’s direction. They performed as a processional at the film premiere.
DCW invited established California filmmakers and choreographers to work with residents to create personal stories through movement and film. The stories addressed issues that affect members of the LBGTQ+, African American, Unhoused, and Domestic Labor communities. Filmmakers Joy Isabella Brown, Irishia Hubbard, Jon Leanos, Marlene Millar, Lane Michael Stanley, Madison Olandt, Vanessa Sanchez and Sandy Silva met with residents to craft and capture personal stories through dance and film. These stories were about Bakersfield residents Andrew 3D Dance Fever Jones, Eric Earthworm Pennella, Tim, and the California Domestic Worker Coalition.
The Produce phase included choreography, script writing, rehearsals, set design and filming on location in Kern County. It featured interviews, dance choreography and documentary footage of their everyday lives.
The Present phase began with an event on Saturday, April 13, that featured a processional and public screening at the city’s Second Saturday celebration at The Brickyard on 18th Street and N Street, as well as film screenings in various businesses downtown.
It will conclude with a closing music and dance procession during the EarthDay661 Festival at Yokuts Park on Sunday, April 21st. EarthDay 661 is a free community event for the entire family. There will be booths, family activities, live music and more for attendees.
The KDA Creative Corps grant enabled DCW to produce films and train individuals in choreography and cinematography with the help of local organizations. These films highlight the resilience and strength of these artists. DCW believes these films will inspire viewers to recognize and support underrepresented artists and their communities, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society.
About the Artist/Organization: Dance Camera West
Dance Camera West is a non-profit based in Los Angeles that supports the production and distribution of dance films. Through educational events and an annual film festival, DCW seeks to broaden dance’s reach to a broader audience.
