Cover Fifth Wall Fest 2022 invites Galaw.Co to perform at the preview of its 3rd edition of Fifth Wall Fest
Fifth Wall Fest 2022 invites Galaw.Co to perform at the preview of its 3rd edition of Fifth Wall Fest
1 / 1
The country's first and only festival dedicated to the art of dance film, Fifth Wall Fest, returns this week for its much-anticipated hybrid edition
When life, as we know it, drastically changed with the opening of the online realm at the height of the pandemic in 2020, the performing arts scene was one of the affected industries. Theatres closed, live performances suspended, and artist-dancers displaced. But from the bleakness of the period shone a one-of-its-kind digital-first festival for dance, emitting a hopeful light that we will be onstage once again.
Fifth Wall Fest, the brainchild of Madge Reyes (a Steps Dance Studio alumna, former Ballet Philippines soloist, and Asian Cultural Council Fellow), aims to provide dance and film enthusiasts with an elevated way to experience and appreciate these two art forms. "We offer a space for the visibility and education of works that choreograph in and around the camera, while simultaneously opening the dialogue for movement beyond the screen," according to its statement. For the past two editions since its inception in 2020, it has presented over 100 films from many participating countries across the globe to a young and engaging community of kindred spirits in the Philippines.
Above Madge Reyes
Madge Reyes
1 / 1
Now staying true to its mission and vision, Fifth Wall Fest mounts its third edition in a hybrid setup—installation exhibits, performances, film screenings (both online and in-theatre), and online workshops, among others. "We channel our artistry by telling stories of those within our orbit, in the process, manifesting the phenomenon of moving beyond the fifth wall and engaging a community of like-minded individuals—from witness to audience to mover to celebration," the statement continues.
The 10-day festival kicked off last week at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati, with a preview of the joint exhibition of photographs made by Koji Arboleda and Renzo Navarro. This exhibition is now on view until the 16th at Tarzeer Pictures.
Check out Koji Arboleda and Renzo Navarro's photo exhibit about the art of body movements in dance at Tarzeer Pictures
1 / 2
The guests were also given a musicale treat with a live orchestra and contemporary ballet performance from the AMP Big Band and Steps Dance Studio, before and after the exclusive screening of Happy Days are Here Again (1974) by Cirio H Santiago. Happy Days is a momentous documentary film produced by Sampaguita Pictures, LVN Pictures, and Premiere Productions where some of the biggest stars of the Golden Age of Philippine Cinema reminisced the early years of the film entertainment scene in the country, its biggest stars, grandest films, and iconic songs and dances.
Above A screenshot of one of the old films discussed in the documentary film "Happy Days are Here Again"
A screenshot of one of the old films discussed in the documentary film "Happy Days are Here Again"
1 / 1
Throughout this week, here are some of the fun events at Fifth Wall Fest that you can enjoy online and onsite:
- Café Müller - Presented in partnership with the German Embassy Manila and the Pina Bausch Foundation, Café Müller is one of the most famous works choreographed by the revolutionary modern dance figure, Pina Bausch. This film is a recording of its performance in August 1985, featuring Pina Bausch herself in Wuppertal, Germany. (UP Fine Arts Gallery / Oct 7 to 16)
- Agnes Locsin Retrospective - Introducing a special retrospective of dance performances showcasing the choreographic legacy of National Artist for Dance, Agnes Locsin. The core of her artistic excellence is grounded on precise technique, extensive research on ancestral roots, and sharp critique of social realities. (UP Fine Arts Gallery / Oct 7 to 16)
- Hoppla! - A film adaptation of Belgian choreographer Anne Teresa de Keersmaker’s creations to the music of Béla Bartók, presented in partnership with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Belgium Manila. (UP Fine Arts Gallery / Oct 7 to 16)
- Movement in Focus - A special collection of twelve films featuring Butoh [舞踏 butō]: the Japanese avant-garde genre that is a testament to how the exploration of movement has no bounds. Presented in partnership with Dance Media Japan, Dance Archive Network, and Tokyo Real Underground. (UP Fine Arts Gallery / Oct 7 to 16)
Above Film archivist and historian Teddy Co gives an insightful glimpse into the past of the Philippine film industry, and the titles that brought screendance to the fore. Festival-goers can catch the entire poster exhibit—’Kada Hakbang at Sine Pop from October 7 to 16.
Above Film archivist and historian Teddy Co gives an insightful glimpse into the past of the Philippine film industry, and the titles that brought screendance to the fore. Festival-goers can catch the entire poster exhibit—’Kada Hakbang at Sine Pop from October 7 to 16.
Film archivist and historian Teddy Co gives an insightful glimpse into the past of the Philippine film industry, and the titles that brought screendance to the fore. Festival-goers can catch the entire poster exhibit—’Kada Hakbang at Sine Pop from October 7 to 16.
1 / 2
- Happy Days are Here Again - The star-studded Pinoy classic returns to the theatre. See big names such as Gloria Romero, Nida Blanca, Dolphy, Nora Aunor, and Fernando Poe Jr. boogie, cha-cha, mambo, and waltz across the screen in iconic movie clips from the 1940s to 1970s. (Sine Pop, Quezon City / October 9 and 11)
- Temporary Fix - Is the Mona Lisa ruined by cake? A film by Tarzeer Pictures, Temporary Fix unpacks the intent and ephemerality of motions surrounding a museum incident that once broke the internet. It will be having its world premiere at Fifth Wall Fest. (Sine Pop, Quezon City / October 9 and 11)
- Starstruck - A tribute to the unique style of legendary dancer Gene Kelly, Starstruck is the on-screen revival of his choreographic gem, Pas de Dieux. Its Asian premiere is presented by Fifth Wall Fest in partnership with the Scottish Ballet. (Sine Pop, Quezon City / October 9 and 11)
- An Evening with Taglioni - Presented in partnership with the Philippine Italian Association, this short film inspired by a bizarre event following the death of ballerina Marie Taglioni will make its Asian premiere at Fifth Wall Fest (Sine Pop, Quezon City / October 9 and 11)
1 / 1
- Enjoy a festival-at-home experience with entries from the Fifth Wall Fest 2022 International Dance Film Competition, as well Fifth Wall Fest’s On Tour and Pinoy Dokyu Collections. (www.fifthwallfest.com / October 7 to 16)
- Kada Hakbang - A selection of Filipino film posters highlighting dance-themed titles spanning over the last 60 years. In collaboration with Archivo 1984. (Sine Pop, Quezon City / October 7 to 16)
- When We Danced - A Fifth Wall Fest closing party and book launch of '90s Manila rave scene photographer Eddie Boy Escudero’s “When We Danced”. (PowerMac Spotlight Center / October 15)
- Explore movement through virtual workshops such as an introductory lecture on dance filmmaking and a session on the Japanese avant-garde art of Butoh. All kinds of movers are welcome and registration is free of charge.
Above Fifth Wall Fest 2022 invites Galaw.Co to perform at the preview of its 3rd edition of Fifth Wall Fest
Fifth Wall Fest 2022 invites Galaw.Co to perform at the preview of its 3rd edition of Fifth Wall Fest
1 / 1
"The Fifth Wall isn't just a concept anymore. It is very much real and palpable. With a mix of in-person and online activities in this edition, we continue to challenge our audiences to explore what it means to celebrate dance from a variety of perspectives. It is what we were always meant to do," Reyes says.
NOW READ
National Artist Agnes Locsin: "You Have to Know Your Culture"
The Creative List: Film, Music, and Dance
A Graceful Movement: How Creed Wind Flowers Captures the Journey of Dance
About
Before assuming the Art and Culture Editor position, Franz has always had a penchant for visual and performing arts. He is passionate about exploring and writing about the local cultural scene and rediscovering the country’s storied past and rich heritage. Besides working on this luxury lifestyle magazine, Franz is an avid book reader, local traveller, museum-goer, chorister, and community theatre playwright.
Work
Franz earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Santo Tomas. He writes about local visual and performing artists and their craft; drinks wines, liquors, and spirits and talks about the creativity of their respective winemakers and master blenders; tries to learn more about business and investments; respects the tradition and artistry that go behind the making of watches and jewellery; and appreciates the genius of architecture and creative design.
As head of Tatler Philippines’ pool of writers, he helps them bring impactful and socially relevant stories to light.
For any leads, you may reach him through @franzsorillaiv on Instagram or franz@tatlerphilippines.com via email.
