It’s International Dance Day (IDD). I’m sure many dancers and dance enthusiasts are wondering when the dance halls of the world will reopen in a post-COVID-19 world. It’s a challenging time. That’s why this year I’m celebrating IDD by revisiting a classic movie.

I first saw the 1948 film, The Red Shoes in a special screening at Queensland’s Performing Arts Complex. I was just a kid, but it left a lingering impact – it’s beautiful, dramatic and disturbing.

The movie tells the story of Victoria Page, a young dancer who battles between her passion for dance and the man she loves. It’s inspired by Hans Christian Anderson’s fairytale, also called The Red Shoes. Created by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger it’s been ranked as one of the best British films of all time plus received numerous accolades.

If you’re based in Australia, The Red Shoes is available to stream on SBS OnDemand, rent or buy on Apple Movie.

This book-to-film adaptation receives an honourable mention in the adaptation hall of fame. Check out my previous series, Movie Magic or tragedy, for some other interesting viewing.