submissions open

Through art, the work of choreographers, dancers and filmmakers should inspire our communities to discover our shared humanity.

​Films submitted to the festival should reflect the beauty and synchronicity between the choreography of dance with the choreography of cinematography.

Narrative films of any length are eligible, as well as documentary films that capture stories from and around the world of dance.

The festival showcases dance films from all over the world. Each film uniquely created challenges traditional structures of choreographic storytelling and artistic expression.

Narrative Short Film
Narrative Fiction Feature
Documentary Short Film
Documentary Feature Film
Animation / Experimental Film
Ballet Short Film
Student Choreographers & Filmmakers
Youth Choreographers & Filmmakers (Ages 13-19)
Mobile Dance Films
Youth Dance Films (Ages 13-19)
Dance Music Video

film categories












Each category within the festival will host a juried competition for "Best of...".

Additionally, an executive committee will award a "Best of Show" award annually to recognize a work with high artistic and informational value. Additional awards may be given within each category at the judgment of the jury (i.e. best cinematographer, editing, sound, etc.).

Filmmakers who have their films selected for the festival will receive an admissions package to the festival.

Awards


























Entry fees are non-refundable.

Filmmakers and artist must be authorized to submit their films to RTDFF, and have appropriate permissions and clearances for their films or art pieces.

Once selected as a part of the official festival, a film may not pull out of the festival or withdraw its submission.

















Rules & Terms

Hailey is a dance educator, choreographer, and coach from Moorhead, Minnesota, who loves helping dancers build confidence, technique, and a lifelong passion for dance. She began her training at Camria Ballet Academy under the direction of Bee Pinotti and continued her education through summer intensives with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet in Canada and Ballet Magnificat! in Missouri.

Hailey graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead with a Bachelor of Science in Multimedia Journalism, a minor in Theatre Dance, and a certificate in Publishing. She was a member of the MSUM Dragon Dance Team for three years and has proudly served as Head Coach, mentoring collegiate dancers and fostering a positive team culture.

Her choreography credits include Oliver! and The Little Mermaid Jr. at Horizon Middle School, and she has also performed with the Straw Hat Players in productions including Cats, The Wedding Singer, Hello, Dolly!, and Blame It on the Movies.

Hailey believes dance should be both challenging and fun. She is passionate about creating a supportive environment where every dancer feels encouraged to grow, express themselves, and discover their full potential.

hailey wilmer

Craig is the Director of Theatre Arts at Minnesota State University Moorhead where he teaches in the area of acting, directing, musical theatre, movement and dance. 

 During his recent sabbatical he finished the Professional Training Program, a year-long study, with the Dell'Arte International School of Physical Theatre. He holds a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre Performance from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and a M.F.A. in Theatre Directing from Minnesota State University Mankato.

 "Tell me and I will forget,
Show me and I may not remember,
Involve me and I will understand."
~ Anonymous

Craig Ellingson

David Triptow (he/him) is a NYC based Performing Artist, Teacher, Yogi, and Entrepreneur. He has performed and travelled all around The United States, Canada and Europe. David began Performing at Trollwood Performing Arts School in Fargo, ND and went to Millikin University, majoring in Music Education and minoring in Dance. Triptow is highly influenced by the Modern and Contemporary Dance Techniques, Spirituality and Philosophy, and the musical styles ranging from Joni Mitchell to The 1975, Ella Fitzgerald to Yola, Haydn to Olafur Arnalds; just to name a few. His brother, Jason Spencer, was influential to his Creative Spirit and Individuality at an early years. Triptow is the youngest of 7 children.

david triptow

Meet the jurors