COUNTERPOISE, 20min., Australia
Directed by Matt Byrne, Larissa McGowan
Counterpoise is a stirring dance video made in collaboration between Australia's leading dance company working with artists with and without disability, Restless Dance Theatre, University of South Australia project - Connect2Abilities, Korean dance company - 29 Dong Dance Theatre, and Korean Music Project.

http://www.restlessdance.org/
https://www.facebook.com/RestlessDanceTheatre
https://www.instagram.com/restless_dance_theatre/

Get to know Larissa McGowan, Associate Artist at Restless Dance Theatre and Co-Director of Counterpoise.

What motivated you to make this film?
The motivation behind creating the film Counterpoise stemmed from the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the pandemic. Restless Dance Theatre and our team of collaborators sought to adapt to the constraints of lockdowns and social distancing, embracing Zoom as a platform for creative exploration. It became an opportunity to bridge the physical distance and create a space for artistic expression, focusing on inclusive dance practices that could engage diverse participants, including artists with disability.

By working in this remote, digital environment, we aimed to explore the themes of balance, adaptation, and human connection in a time of uncertainty.

We finally were able to work together in Seoul to create the dynamic dance film. Counterpoise reflects the resilience and creativity that emerged from these constraints, showcasing the potential of inclusive dance even in the most challenging circumstances.

From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
3 years

How would you describe your film in two words!?
Dynamic and powerful

What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

The biggest obstacle in completing Counterpoise was navigating the limitations imposed by the pandemic, particularly working remotely over Zoom. Coordinating movement, rehearsals, and communication across digital platforms posed unique challenges in terms of maintaining creative flow and ensuring inclusivity for all the artists. Additionally, the physical distance between collaborators made it difficult to capture the full essence of the dance until we were finally able to meet in Seoul, where we could refine and fully realise the dynamic aspects of the film.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

Watching the audience's reactions in the feedback video was incredibly moving. Hearing how Counterpoise resonated with them, especially the way they connected with the themes of resilience and human connection, was both gratifying and humbling. Their reflections on the film's inclusivity and the creative use of movement, despite the challenges we faced, reaffirmed the impact we hoped to achieve. It was inspiring to see how our work sparked conversations about adaptation and collaboration in such a deeply personal and universal way.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?

The realisation that we wanted to make Counterpoise came during the pandemic, when we found ourselves grappling with the sudden limitations on in-person collaboration. As a company committed to inclusive dance practices, we knew we had to find a way to continue creating and connecting, despite the circumstances. The idea of using Zoom as a platform for artistic expression emerged organically, as we saw an opportunity to explore themes of balance, adaptation, and human connection in a digital context. It was during these early virtual rehearsals that we realised the potential for something greater—a dance film that could encapsulate the resilience and creativity of our collective experience.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?

The Princess Bride, it's a mix of perfect storytelling and humour.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

We truly appreciate everything your festival has done to bring Counterpoise to a broader audience. To further support and enhance the experience for us, a few additional elements could make a significant impact:

Networking Opportunities: Facilitating more meaningful interactions with fellow filmmakers, industry professionals, and potential collaborators would help foster connections that could lead to future projects.
Distribution Support: Guidance or assistance with finding distribution platforms—whether for streaming, festivals, or special screenings—would be invaluable in helping us reach new audiences.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?

Truly wonderful

10. What is your favorite meal?

Oysters and Champagne

11. What is next for you? A new film?

A new dance work for stage.