Lusophone Dance Cinema Tour: Bridging Three Continents
The rhythmic ties between Portuguese-speaking nations are set to take center stage as the “Saracoteio — Dance on Screen” program prepares to showcase 13 innovative dance films across three continents. The joint initiative will bring together the creative talents of Portugal, Mozambique, Brazil, Guinea-Bissau, and Macao in a traveling cinematic showcase.
A Global Tour from Cape Verde to Macao
Curated through a partnership between three major international festivals, the program was whittled down from over 60 submissions. The final selection will debut at the Uabé Festival on Santiago Island, Cape Verde (September 21–25), before moving to Portugal for the 34th Almada Dance Festival (September 25 – October 11). The tour will conclude in December at Macao’s Rollout Dance Film Festival.
Mary Wong, curator of the Rollout Dance Film Festival, emphasized that the selection process sought more than just filmed performances. “We looked for works that use the language of cinematography, where the choreography belongs to both the human body and the camera lens,” Wong told Lusa. The curators prioritized “innovative works” that push the boundaries of the genre.
Beyond Traditional Dance
The 13 selected films offer a diverse look at movement, often blurring the lines between art and environment. Notable selections include a video where choreography is derived from the athleticism of rock climbing and another that explores the intimate connection between a human dancer and a horse.
Among the four works representing Macao, one particularly poignant film is set in Iao Hon, one of the most densely populated neighborhoods on Earth. Built in the 1970s and slated for demolition, the neighborhood provides a gritty, aesthetic backdrop for a performance that reflects the lived reality of Macao’s residents.
Social Commentary and Lasting Connections
Beyond the artistry, the “Saracoteio” program aims to provoke dialogue. Many of the films from Brazil and Mozambique address themes of political instability and social disputes, using movement to comment on contemporary life. “We want the audience to think and to talk,” Wong said.
Ultimately, the program is designed to be more than a screening series; it is a bridge for cultural exchange. In October, dancers from Macao will travel to Portugal to present live works, while the Almada Dance Festival will bring a delegation of performers to Macao in December to further strengthen the bonds within the Lusophone artistic community.
Image: Pexels – Ron Lach
