Description
Hans van Manen : Just Dance The Steps
A leading figure in contemporary ballet, Hans van Manen has shaped a uniquely refined and precise choreographic language over more than half a century. With over 150 works performed by nearly 90 companies worldwide, his legacy has left an indelible mark on the history of dance.
In Just Dance The Steps, director Willem Aerts follows the choreographer over five years, from Amsterdam to Düsseldorf and The Hague. Through rehearsals, creative processes, and quieter, more personal moments, the film reveals an artist in constant motion, whose life remains inseparable from dance. The camera captures both the discipline of creation and the freedom of expression, in a rare intimacy made possible by the deep connection between filmmaker and subject.
Acclaimed at international film festivals in 2023, this documentary offers a rich and insightful look into van Manen’s world—one defined by rigor, sensuality, and clarity. Produced by Tomtit Film in collaboration with AVROTROS, Just Dance The Steps stands as both a tribute and a vital record.
An essential film for all lovers of contemporary ballet, at a time of renewed global interest in Hans van Manen’s life and work.
Hans van Manen : Just Dance The Steps [DVD & Blu-ray]
A film by : Willem Aerts
Special thanks to : Rachel Beaujean, Henk van Dijk
All dancers and musicians
Dutch National Ballet
Nederlands Dans Theater
Deutsche Oper am Rhein
Ballethaus Düsseldorf
Dutch Ballet Orchestra
Wiener Staatsballett
Annemieke Kleisterlee
Wil Westra Hoekzema
Neelie Kroes, Sjeng Scheijen
Erwin Olaf
Arte
« It would have been easy to make a film taking stock of van Manen’s life and ticking off his many achievements but happily the director focuses on this colourful and unique character, and it is van Manen who seems to lead the film.
…a truly remarkable film about a remarkable artist. …The careful framing of the shots and pacing of the “action” are immaculately accomplished. » – MUSIC WEB INTERNATIONAL
« It is a great tribute that even serves as a form of therapy for Van Manen, presented with care and in an elegant, understated manner. A celebration of an almost centenary figure without whom the history of ballet in the Netherlands would not be the same. » – RITMO
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HD recording : 2022
Director : Willem Aerst
Release date : 01 July 2025
Distribution : Naxos Distribution
1 DVD
Reference : BAC226
Barcode : 3760115302266
Running time : 90 min.
Subtitles : ENG / GER / JAP / KOR
Image : Color, 16/9, NTSC
Sound : PCM 2.0, Dolby Digital 5.1
Region code : 0
1 BLU-RAY
Reference : BAC526
Barcode : 3760115305267
Running time : 90 min.
Subtitles : ENG / GER / JAP / KOR
Image : Color, 16/9, Full HD
Sound : PCM 2.0, DTS HD Master audio 5.1
Region code : A, B, C
