Screen Dreams

Many good things have been coming about! I am happy to say that things are moving along with my first curatorial endeavor, "Movies By Movers," an evening of short dance films by NC dancers, choreographers and filmmakers. I am excited that I have begun to receive submissions for the event already, and many more people have expressed their intent to submit. As we move closer to the date of the event, November 21st, I begin to fantasize about what this little showing might grow into. A small festival of dance film, perhaps? A quarterly series? A traveling event? I have begun to search for venues across the state that may want to show this evening of dance films in the spring. I dream about being able to celebrate dance on film, by showing new, experimental, innovative films by dance filmmakers like myself, and also show some of my inspirations...Kiss Me Kate, Singin' in the Rain, films by Maya Deren and old school music videos, like Thriller. I dream of presenting seminars on the history of dance on film, and workshops where people get to experiment with movement on digital media. I dream also, of streaming live over the internet, happenings of general ridiculousness...random dances in fun places, and impromptu pedestrian participation. I relish the possibilities!

Last evening, Brett invited me to the Charlotte Filmmakers Meet-up. I was first of all, happy to notice how well-attended the monthly event was. There were plenty of people...directors, actors, producers, shooters, sound people, and more. Generally, the evening is supposed to be a networking event, where everyone has a chance to introduce themselves, and talk with those who might be interested in the work they do, or interested to collaborate. However, yesterday the evening was dedicated to showing the work of a few Charlotte-based artists, as well as discussion with a fellow NC School of the Arts grad, about his current projects (I did not know him personally while I was there). Though we did not have the opportunity to meet any new film buddies, I am excited to go to the meet-up again next month.

Lastly in the world of the screen, I have finally begun to submit my documentary, "Art for the Living," to film festivals around the country. I am apprehensive about what will happen with the film, as I am certain that it looks like a first doc project by an inexperienced documentary filmmaker. However, I have to stay positive, and hope that someone will want to show the film. Of course, going through this process makes me want to make another doc. I am hungry to learn how to make a compelling, technically sound documentary. Creating beauty on the fly is so much different than our meticulously planned dance films. But I think the art of catching fleeting moments, or letting a story unfold will certainly inform my approach to dance films.

What can I say? I have been hungry for so many things lately. I just want to be able to make whatever I put my mind to. Yesterday, I was asked what part of the many things I do is my favorite. I honestly couldn't pick. I can't have one without the others. And I love them all.

Tomorrow, I go to Charleston to perform with Laura on Thursday for her monthly concert series. I am super excited!!

~Cara