Frances Samson, Savannah Green, Adji Cissoko, Sara Mearns, India Bradley, Melissa Toogood, and Olivia Bell in Jamar Roberts’s new work, “A Star. A Crown. A Trine. A Bevy.” at NOW: Premieres at the 2024 Vail Dance Festival; photo by Christopher Duggan.
Vail Dance Festival 2024: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Magic
Traveling with all our gear!!!
Gear Galore and Hard Work
Our journey began with a mountain of gear: 3 tripods, 3 cameras, and 4 pelican cases filled to the brim!!! Managing this extensive setup was just the beginning. Filming 9 shows with 4 cameras each, directing, and producing 13 videos, including 1 livestream, required immense dedication and long hours. The pace was intense, but every challenge was met with determination and enthusiasm!!
The Inspiring Process
One of the most inspiring moments of the summer was being in the studio with Jamar Roberts as he choreographed his new piece, “A Star. A Crown. A Trine. A Bevy.” His laid-back and fun approach made the creative process a joy to witness and capture. The collaborative spirit of the Festival, supported by the incredible talents of Damian Woeztel, Heather Watts, and the Vail team was truly uplifting!!!
Mason Chapello filming a rehearsal at Vail Dance Festival 2024
Ashli Bickford & Nel Shelby
The Challenge and the Magic
Despite the demanding schedule and the constant effort to keep up with the volume of work, the real reward was watching these dance performances come to life. Each piece, created in Vail, emerged as something beautiful and unique. And then you have the magic of NOW: Premieres via livestream, adding another layer of excitement, showcasing the artistry in real-time, and introducing the Festival to new audiences.
Celebrating the Results
The culmination of our hard work is reflected in the stunning content produced. Each video captures the essence of the Festival and the incredible performances we had the honor of filming. The beauty and uniqueness of these works are a testament to the talent of the artists and the dedication of everyone involved!! A huge thank you to the entire Vail team, all the artists, and my team for making Vail Dance Festival 2024 an extraordinary experience. Your contributions made every moment of this festival unforgettable!!!
