AFRICAN FILM FESTIVAL NEW ZEALAND

Synopsis

“This is bigger than yourselves” Germaine tells her students in this documentary on the life and work of ‘the mother of contemporary African dance’, Germaine Acogny. She could well be describing her own work. In 2021 she received the Golden Lion for Dance at the Venice Dance Festival. At 80 years old she still plays an active part teaching at the school she founded in Senegal, L’Ecole des Sables. Inspired by nature and pride in her African heritage, she encourages young dancers and choreographers from Africa and elsewhere through her acclaimed Germaine Acogny technique of dance. With stunning dance sequences and interviews, the film reveals this talented, energetic and dedicated woman in all her glory. Over ten years ago, Germaine Acogny came to Auckland to teach a group of Maori dancers. It is great to have her film at #AFFNZ25.

Award: Nominee for cineCoPro award, Munich FF 2025.