GERMAINE ACOGNY: THE ESSENCE OF DANCE

This vibrant documentary, presented at the festival as a joint project of the Institut français d’Autriche and the German Embassy, is a French-German co-production honoring the life and work of French-Senegalese dancer and choreographer Germaine Acogny, often referred to as the “mother of African contemporary dance.”

Director Becker weaves together present-day interviews with striking archival footage to create a compelling cinematic portrait brimming with inspiring energy and creativity. Now 81 years old, Acogny herself puts it this way: “When you dance, you should not see your body, but your soul.” The film offers a detailed look at her work as both performer and teacher and is a sensory delight—whether or not audiences are already familiar with modern dance. (NY)