Stories in Motion: A Film & Arts-Based Residency

Part 1: Teacher-Led Film Viewing (Flexible Timing – In Classroom)
Teachers may choose to show either the 56-minute or 80-minute version of Call Me Dancer, depending on their class schedule and objectives. A teacher’s guide and optional student worksheets will be provided to support reflection and discussion. Students will be introduced to core themes: identity, perseverance, and creative self-expression.
Website & Film Trailer: www.CallMeDancer.com

Optional Discussion / Worksheets Provided: Teachers can reinforce understanding of narrative elements, character motivation, and personal connection, and can also use a provided guide to lead reflective journaling, art activities, and group discussions – all inspired by creative prompts tied to the film’s core themes.

Part 2: Three Artist Led Residency Sessions (60 to 90 minutes, scheduled separately)
The residency will take place in a classroom with desks moved aside or in a larger open space such as a gym. Teaching artist Anne Sidney will lead three sessions with students over three consecutive weeks. The sessions are designed to progress from improvisation, to creating original movement, to sharing and reflecting together as students become one another’s audience. Exact dates and times will be coordinated in collaboration with the classroom teacher.

If a large space is not available, the program can be fully adapted for the classroom. Movement activities can be scaled to small gestures, seated movement, or verbal and reflective responses as needed. Students with limited mobility are fully included through creative, child directed participation that values observing, sharing ideas, and reflecting as part of the group experience.

Anne Sidney is a master teaching artist with the Wolf Trap Institute, specializing in arts integration for early childhood educators. She has over 25 years of experience bringing dance and movement into schools and community spaces across the DC area. Anne is also the rehearsal director for Dana Tai Soon Burgess Dance Company and a former performer. Her work focuses on creating joyful, inclusive environments where children can express themselves through movement and storytelling.

15 minutes – Movement Warm-Up
Students will develop body awareness, build group trust, and prepare for physical expression.
30–60 minutes – Guided Movement Exploration
In small groups, students will explore identity and perseverance through collaborative choreography. This activity helps build creative confidence, nonverbal communication, and improvisational skills.
15 minutes – Reflection & Sharing
Students will practice active listening, support peer expression, and reflect on what they created and felt during the workshop.

Learning Goals:
· Use movement to explore and express personal and cultural identity
· Build confidence through physical storytelling
· Strengthen collaboration and communication skills
· Reflect on perseverance and the power of mentorship