Akiko: Portrait of a Dancer

This documentary provides an intimate look at Akiko Kanda, who left Japan to pursue her passion for dance in New York City. As a principal dancer under Martha Graham, Kanda’s journey reflects her commitment to modern dance and her role in introducing it to Japan. The film captures her daily life, from practicing to performing, and her relationship with her aging mother back home.

Kanda's story is one of individuality and rebellion against traditional expectations of women in her culture. Her reflections on life and art reveal her deep connection to dance, which she considers integral to her identity. The film runs for 107 minutes, offering a profound insight into the life of a dancer who shaped the landscape of modern dance in Japan.