Yesterday I finally went to a matinee showing of the Sundance Film Select documentary First Position. I’ve been wanting to see this film since seeing the preview during the viewing of the documentary Pina.
The intense journey of six young dancers and their struggles, sacrifies, and triumphs are explored and beautifully portrayed on their road to becoming professional ballet dancers.
The life of a dancer is very much unlike the average, and this documentary gives viewers an inside perspective of this surreal yet phenomenal world. The beauty of ballet is in its effortless execution of movement and fluidity surrounded by a romantic love story. The sweat, tears, and extreme hard work with ballet is usually concealed with glamorous costumes and elaborate set designs. First Position shares a glimpse of exactly what these dancers and their families go through to get to where they want to be. This film reminded me of what training for the Olympics would be like. Dancers are athletes and many don’t realize that.
Long rehearsals, daily classes, special coaches and private lessons, being home schooled, living apart from family to train, dealing with injuries, and the relentless devotion to perfect the art of ballet to simply express their passion for dance.
I felt a whirlwind of emotions watching the film that continued on my drive home. I feel so blessed to be a dancer and my ability to work professionally as a dancer. The discipline, work, and maintenance never ends as long as you desire to dance and perform. The film refueled me to stay on my own journey of creativity and performance no matter how challenging the road ahead may be.
It takes so much work to remain inspired at times. The love of dance and the fierce commitment to training is not something that can be easily explained unless you have experienced some portion of it first hand.
First Position doesn’t need to explain anything, you can see it for yourself. If you get a chance please go see this movie and let me know what you think. It is only being played at select theatres so you may need to do some research. Enjoy your weekend!
Lana says
I read an article on the young artist featured in this documentary who is orginally from Sierre Leone. After reading aboout her life, I was literally in tears. She inspired me so that I now have a picture of her dancing as my screen saver. Not only is she beautiful, but her resilience and strength remind me that no weapons formed will prosper if I only believe and keep moving.
Dawn Michelle says
Thank you for your beautiful comment Lana. Her story was extremely inspiring! She is a breathtaking dancer as well!
Lana says
I will certainly make it a point to see this film. I’m glad you were inspired to continue on your journey. It’s truly a blessing to love what you do and do what you love!
Dawn Michelle says
It is a big blessing to love what you do everyday!