On The Big Screen

Dance Spirit, December, 2003 by Chensvold, Christian M

THE ASSISTANT CHOREOGRAPHER FOR THE NEW FILM SWING TELLS WHAT IT'S REALLY LIKE TO MAKE BALLROOM MOVES-FOR ACTORS.

Time was the enemy on Swing, a film I recently wrapped. I was the assistant choreographer, hired by choreographer Cynthia Glinka. The challenge we faced was immense: get the four principals, who had little partner-dance experience, swing dancing. The fact that we had only three rehearsals before filming made the task harrowing. Once filming started, we were given only stolen moments with the actors when they weren't wanted on the set.

Swing, scheduled to be released this winter, was low on budget but high on talent. It's the story of a young man who finds his true path in life, romantically and professionally, through swing dance. Our four principals included...

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