Poised to redefine Filipinos' understanding and appreciation of dance, Fifth Wall Fest is back and better than ever. As the Philippines' leading international dance film festival, they're taking an even bolder step with their fourth edition that launched last October 5.
Here's What You Need to Know About Fifth Wall Fest 2023
What is Fifth Wall?
Fifth Wall Fest challenges traditional dance experiences, venturing beyond the confines of that "fifth wall" to see the limitless celebration of dance from all perspectives.
Since its inception in 2020, the festival has remained dedicated to creating a space for the promotion, learning, and appreciation of dance–from the beautifully choreographed movement in and around the camera, to the immersive pockets they have created for their latest installment.
What is Fifth Wall Fest Edition IV?
Following the success of its shift from an online event to a captivating hybrid experience, the 11-day endeavour features exhibits, talks, a variety of live performances, and even DJ sets to explore the intersection of movement, visual arts, and sound through immersive installations.
"Each edition is an experiment of how far we can stretch the meaning of what it is to present dance," according to festival director Madge Reyes. "Simply put: if you think Fifth Wall is not going to do it… we probably will," she says.
Of course, at the heart of it all is a special curation of local and international dance films. The festival opened with a free 3D screening of Pina at SM Megamall, and will close with a big screen showing of Cunningham. Both titles follow lives of distinguished dancers, with the former about German Tanztheather founder Pina Bausch, and the latter about American choreographer Merce Cunningham.
A diverse film lineup will also be showcased throughout the festival, including the winning entry from the Fifth Wall Competition 2023. With submissions from all over Europe, Latin America, and Southeast Asia, Urban Genesis by Fu Le was awarded top honors for the poignant storytelling about how the protagonist Phuomg, released from prison, returns to her home province.
The festival also offer a unique and experiential viewing of microcinema's finest through a walking tour around Kino and Archivo 1984, as well as scheduled talks in the The Black Box—the festival's space for engagement and education.
The conversation doesn't end there, though. Not forgetting their digital roots, they also made five short films available on their website for viewers to access in the comforts of their own home. Check out the full schedule below:
While the festival only happens once a year, they do hold on pop-ups from time to time, just like their participation at the most recent Art Fair.
Fifth Wall Fest runs from October 5-15, 2023. You may visit their website and Instagram for more information.
Hey, Preview readers! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Tiktok, and Twitter to stay up to speed on all things trendy and creative. We’ll curate the most stylish feed for you!
