Self-expression During Isolation Is Vital: Dancing On My Own (Short Film)

'Dancing On My Own' is a short film set during the Covid-19 lockdown, and follows 16-year-old Ana who sparks a unique relationship with 70-year-old Rosa. Despite their differences, Rosa teaches her the importance of self-discovery through dance, and together, they share a unique and special relationship in a time of isolation.

Our aim of this film is to highlight how the Covid-19 lockdown in New Zealand had a significant emotional impact on people's mental wellbeing. We want to explore and illustrate how self-expression can be utilised to allow for positive self-discovery, which allows for a positive shift in mental wellbeing. Because the Covid-19 pandemic has had a major affect across our nation, and worldwide, we aim to share this film with as many individuals as possible, through screenings at various national and international film festivals.

This short film is written and directed by Keria Paterson, and produced by Juliet Mora. 'Dancing On My Own' is our final project within our Television major at AUT. For us, this isn't just a university film; this film is our stepping stone into the wider film industry. As motivated young creatives, we've spent the last 2 years curating and critiquing our craft, and this film will allow us to showcase our talent and skills to the wider film industry.

Our cast and crew also consists of various passionate young creatives and industry professionals. We are thrilled to have Christina Milligan as our Executive Producer, who is a renowned producer within the film industry and a lecturer at AUT. We're also super lucky to have Sarah Robinson as our 1st Assistant Director. Our Cinematographer for the film is Luke Penny, and Location Sound is being lead by Benjamin Annabelle. We're also super excited to have the support of other industry professionals during production, filling our lighting, makeup, wardrobe, and music departments.

Your support is crucial to our success. Whether it be a big or small contribution, your donation is greatly appreciated, and will enable us to produce a truly special film.

Kia kaha.

Keria and Juliet.