We're delighted to share that Rapunzel Red, a North East-made film by Ben Crompton and Alex Ayre, has been shortlisted for Best Dance Film at the 25th National Dance Awards.
The film is one of five finalists, standing alongside entries from the Royal Ballet, English National Ballet, and Venezuelan director Javier de Frutos. It's the only production from the North East to be nominated.
Filmed at Gala Durham in 2024, Rapunzel Red is a 77-minute cinematic version of Rapunzel After Dark . It reimagines the well-known fairytale through a new lens, telling the story from the perspectives of Rapunzel’s parents and the Witch.
Created with a rich blend of dance, music, and storytelling, the film features choreography by Liv Lorent, writing by Carol Ann Duffy, and performances by Lesley Sharp, music from Doctor Who composer Murray Gold, and a cast of eight dancers.
Filmed over four days, Rapunzel Red brings a close-up view of the story’s emotional heart, exploring themes of love, longing, and family in a way that feels both intimate and cinematic. It is available to watch on Marquee TV, a global streaming service dedicated to the performing arts.
The shortlist was selected from over 30 nominations by a panel of experts from the Critics’ Circle, which includes dance writers from national publications. The winner will be announced at a ceremony at The Barbican Centre in London on 9 June.
Rapunzel Red has already been recognised internationally, winning Best Dance Film at the Beyond the Curve International Film Festival in Paris last year.
Liv Lorent, Artistic Director of balletLORENT, said:
“We’re truly honoured to be shortlisted for this award alongside such exceptional work. Rapunzel Red was a deeply collaborative project, and it means a great deal to see it recognised in this way.”
Kylie Lloyd, Executive Director of balletLORENT, added:
“This nomination is a proud moment for the whole team. It reflects the creativity, commitment and talent that went into making Rapunzel Red, and we’re thrilled to see it acknowledged by the National Dance Awards.”
