Questions About the Application Process?

Do I have to be affiliated with an organization or company?

​No, solo artists are welcome to apply. 

Can I apply as a team with others?

No, we will pair applicants together to encourage dance makers/choreographers and filmmakers to explore and create beyond their existing comfort zones and to build new relationships.

Do I have to live in Erie?

Yes, all collaborators on the project must be living, working, and creating in Erie County a minimum of 75% of the year - including dance makers/choreographers, dancers, and filmmakers.

Is there an age limit?

Yes, you must be 18 years of age or older by September 21, 2020 to apply.

Do I need previous dance for camera experience?

No, but your application should demonstrate a commitment to your artistic discipline and process - as well as an interest in exploring narratives of social, racial, environmental, and economic justice. 

Is this a paid opportunity?

This is an opportunity for artists to collaborate and create reels for portfolios. Nominal funds will be provided in the form of a production stipend, which is intended to defray production costs of equipment, materials, costumes, dancers, etc. Production stipends will be equal across all participating teams. ​​

Can I apply as a team with others?

No, we will pair applicants together to encourage dance makers/choreographers and filmmakers to explore and create beyond their existing comfort zones and to build new relationships.

Do you accept applications from dancemakers and choreographers from all genres of dance?

Yes, we welcome and encourage all forms and genres of dance! 

Who will determine how applicants are matched?

Applicants will be paired together by the Founders of the EDFF. Pairings will be made after reviewing all applications taking into consideration dance genre, thematic interests, experience level, and other objective criteria.

Can dancers featured be under 18? 

Yes, but they must be accompanied by an adult guardian. 

Questions About Production and Screening?

Do I maintain the copyright for my film?
Yes, filmmakers maintain the copyright to their films.
The EDFF requests the right to premier you film.
After premier, the EDFF encourages teams to submit their films to dance film festivals outside of Erie County.

Is there a time limit for my film?
Yes, films should run between 3 and 8 minutes in length.

Are there guidelines for content?
Teams are encouraged to keep in mind that films will be screened at all ages venues.
It would be most suitable if content adhered to a PG or PG-13 rating.

Is equipment or materials provided?
No, teams are responsible for providing their own equipment and materials. 

Can I use whatever music I want in my film?
No, due to copyright laws, music must be original compositions or in the public domain. 

Are there restrictions on filming locations?
Yes, filming locations are limited to Erie County.

Where will my film be shown?
Films will be screened at a series of events throughout Erie County, including the Erie Blues & Jazz Festival, from May through October of 2021.

If you are a dance maker/choreographer and you have additional questions, please contact Tauna Hunter (thunter@mercyhurst.edu). If you are a filmmaker and you have additional questions, please contact Jacqueline George (jjakeg@aol.com).