Keep the flame, don't pray to the ashes

The Swiss dancer and choreographer Martin Schläpfer is one of the most important dance artists of the 21st century. Enter his world with this filmed portrait by Annette von Wangenheim.

Born to a family of Swiss farmers, Martin Schläpfer went on to have a brilliant career in the world of contemporary ballet and dance. Now the Director and Chief Choreographer of Ballet am Rhein, the award-winning artist is the focus of this intimate 2016 documentary. Filmmaker Annette von Wangenheim's film explores the meaning of dance and the incredible potential of the high-performance dance art to combine music, movement, emotion, expression, and elegance. She takes us into Schläpfer's world, giving the master himself the opportunity to explain how he brings his greatest passion to life. 

Photo: © Gert Weigelt