Greenbelt Dance and Joy

It was a day of freedom and fun for guests of the Greenbelt Rec Center and the Greenbelt Cinema. Based on the concept of "Dancing Joy," instructors taught traditional Middle Eastern Belly dance, and then 1930s-40s "Swing Dance" sponsored by the Rec Center itself.

Then, some 80 people enjoyed a free screening of Dancing Joy at the Greenbelt Cinema, with a panel discussion after of the three primary filmmakers: Director Lan T. Lee, Editor Mie Smith and Producer Kate Tsubata.

This was organized by Lauren Rankel in time for Women's Month; the film is one of the less than one percent of films made with females in the key roles of producer, director, editor and colorist, as well as many of the choreographers and dance artists who are featured in the movie.

The audience response was overwhelming. Tears and smiles were in equal profusion. Many spoke about the detail with which the dance movement, music, wardrobe, locations and camerawork were done. Director Lan T. Lee explained how the symphonic section of music was chosen to match the dancers' traditional tempo and sound. She shared how they had to communicate by dance, because language was often a barrier. Editor Mie Smith explained how she chose to visually "tell the story" of the symphony. Producer Kate Tsubata shared the initial vision and the path of building the film, taking nearly 14 years to complete. Many viewers stayed afterwards to give more personal reflections, and to suggest ways to bring the film to other locations for similar screenings. The day was, as hoped, an experience of the senses, an experience that immersed each participant in a visceral embrace of beauty and human dignity. If you would like to bring a "Dancing Joy Experience" to your location, let us know!

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