Lights Dance Festival

Lights Dance aspires to celebrate dance in its diversity and endless possibilities. The festival began as a way to bridge our love for both screendance and live performances, and is committed to expanding the creative potential for how dance can be experienced. We want to present a new kind of dance spectatorship with a dynamic multimedia presentation that showcases the variety of ways dance moves and excites us.

The 4th Annual Lights Dance Festival will be curated around the concept of Shadows & Songs to consider our humanity in the changing landscape of communication and technology. In the age of expedience and convenience, as we find it difficult to maintain a sense of self and dignity, we hide behind our computer and phone screens, our true emotions tucked away in compartmentalized crevices deep within. Although we are quick to swipe left or right, click ‘send’ or ‘order,’ we are slow to listen, slow to be mindful and be present.

Lights Dance wants to make dance more accessible to all. We are passionate about creating a stronger dance community here in Canada by equipping choreographers, dancers, and filmmakers through education, mentorship, and building a stronger network. It is imperative for us to strengthen the voices and craftsmanship of everyone who desires to tell stories through dance, whatever their background or identity may be.

Lights Dance Audience Choice Award

All films selected for our festival programming are eligible for the Audience Choice Award. The winning short will be announced during the festival.