The Dancer's Fundraiser
The Dancer
Dance can be used to confront trauma and inspire the future.
Join us and help make a difference. Your tax deductible contribution will go towards wrapping up post production on this important and timely film. Thank you for your support!
Logline: The Dancer is a film about Ahmad Joudeh, a queer Syrian - born dancer who battles against inner and external war in his pursuit for the true meaning of home. Condemned for being a dancer ; threatened by ISIS to death for dancing; beat by his father for dancing. Ahmad uses dance as a powerful artform to explore justice and identity. After gaining nationality in The Netherlands and international fame, can he find true freedom?
Synopsis: "The Dancer" is an uplifting exploration of what it means to be a refugee today, focusing on Ahmad Joudeh's coming-of-age story in Damascus, where he aspired and studied to become a dancer. This film showcases the hope and determination of personal expression amidst the dangers of war and the transformative power of art. As a stateless refugee, Ahmad became captivated by dance after witnessing a ballet performance at age eight. Despite his mother's support, his father's disapproval forced him to leave home. At 16, self-taught, he auditioned for the Enana Dance Theater in Damascus and was accepted. The ongoing civil war in Syria posed life-threatening challenges, especially from ISIS, who targeted him for his passion. As a symbol of his resolve, he tattooed "Dance or Die" on his neck, signifying that surrendering his dreams was not an option. Ahmad’s struggle, talent and determination gained attention when a Dutch news program featured him, leading to his invitation to the Netherlands by the Dutch National Ballet. Since then, he has worked internationally as a freelance artist, advocating for refugees and performing at significant events. As a UNHCR High Profile Supporter and Amsterdam Pride’s Ambassador, and a Young Global Leader at the World Economic Forum. After he graduated from the Dutch National Ballet Academy as the first Arab Ballet Master with a degree in Ballet Teaching, Ahmad returned to Syria to teach aspiring dancers, using dance to confront trauma. However, he faces risks because of his fame for his advocacy and dance, further complicated by the ongoing threats from terrorists.