IMZ Academy 2025: Live Multi-Camera Directing of Dance Performances

Register for the IMZ Academy Workshop at Dance House Helsinki from 10-14 June, and learn the art of capturing dance performances from award-winning directors.

This workshop, tailored to directors, filmmakers, and production teams, offers a rare chance to master essential skills in visualising, scripting, and directing ballet and contemporary dance with both multi-camera and single-camera setups, supported by expert critique and guidance.

Guided by renowned experts in the field–Peter Maniura, Myriam Hoyer, Thomas Freundlich, and Valtteri Raekallio–participants will gain hands-on experience filming at Tanssin Talo (Dance House) in Helsinki. Participants will work closely with the dance company Raekallio Corp, filming a short dance piece with the artists.

This five-day workshop is designed for professionals eager to refine their skills in capturing ballet and contemporary dance on screen. Whether new to multi-camera filming, an experienced director expanding expertise, or a single-camera filmmaker transitioning to multi-camera work, participants will gain structured, practical training. The course also benefits digital team members in ballet and music organisations, as well as broadcast media professionals looking to enhance their production skills.

Covering best practices for visualising, scripting, and directing dance performances, the workshop explores essential directing skills, gallery techniques, and camera scripting to craft compelling sequences. Participants will also gain insight into key equipment, including camera types and lenses commonly used in dance filming.

Emphasising hands-on experience, the workshop allows participants to put their skills into practice, receive expert feedback, and refine their approach. By the end, they will have a solid foundation in directing dance for the screen, ready to translate performances into cinematic storytelling.

DATES
30 April + 7 May 2025, Online Preparation Module
10-14 June 2025, on-site in Helsinki (Finland) at Tanssin Talo