Dive into the world of high stakes ballet competition in the documentary feature “Closer Than Yesterday,” which follows two young San Francisco Ballet dancers on their journey to the Helsinki International Ballet Competition.
DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
LISA LE LIEVRE
Director/Producer
This project began in 2020 when Tiit Helimets was coaching two dancers for an international ballet competition and asked me to document their journey. We aimed to give audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the preparation process and the challenges involved. Then the COVID pandemic began and everything was put on hold. Fast forward to 2022, we had the opportunity to begin again, and with less than two months until the Helsinki International Ballet Competition, we began filming their journey.
I wanted to create a film that reflects the real experience of professional ballet dancers and dispel the myths and stereotypes surrounding this art form. What does it take to reach the highest levels of ballet? It takes single-minded focus, dedication, and hard work. It requires a relentless pursuit of every opportunity to showcase one’s capabilities and a willingness to always go further and give more. These are individuals at the top of their game, in peak performance of mind and body.
As we follow the dancers the film reveals what lies behind their brief moments on stage. Their rich network of support is crafted to meld their youthful talents with the traditions and pedigree of the art form.
The construction of a dance in the training, the choreography, the rehearsals, and the logistics. From the artistic directors who recognize a dancer’s talent to the choreographers and coaches who nurture and guide their performances, we glimpse the atelier of elite ballet.
For young aspiring dancers, the message is that dance doesn't have a clear endpoint; it's an ongoing journey. Classical ballet is competitive but the true competition is with oneself. It's about progressing towards your goals and always striving to be “Closer Than Yesterday”.
SPONSORS
Brian & Rene Hollins
Watch the World Premier
Friday, October 4th @ 8:00PM
LucasFilm Premiere Theater, San Francisco