Otter Lake

An intimate, unguarded look at the creative process of one of dance’s most singular voices: Emma Portner.

WORLD PREMIERE | Otter Lake follows choreographer Emma Portner as she turns to movement to reconnect with herself and confront her inner world. At just 31, Portner has become one of dance’s most distinctive voices, creating work for the National Ballet of Canada, the Norwegian National Ballet, and musical artists ranging from Justin Bieber to FKA Twigs.

This documentary offers a rare, intimate look inside her creative process, following Emma as she produces three new works, including pieces for the Royal Swedish Ballet and GöteborgsOperans Danskompani. Through a deeply personal lens, the film captures her vulnerability and brilliance alongside an unexpected bond formed during a transformative moment at her Otter Lake residence, offering a glimpse into the soul of an artist who communicates through movement when words fall short.

Followed by a live Q&A with Emma Portner and director Katya Mokolo.

Director: Katya Mokolo
Choreographer: Emma Portner
(France, 2026) 82 minutes

Tickets purchased at the door will cost $1 additional per ticket.

6:30p | House Opens

7:00p | Program begins

Runtime: 82 minutes

Venue Accessibility: The entrance to Delancey Street Theater’s screening room is at 600 The Embarcadero. Once you enter the gates, there is an office to your left with a front desk. The person at the front desk will escort you to the elevator to get to the screening room.

About the 2026 San Francisco Dance Film Festival:

The San Francisco Dance Film Festival marks its seventeenth year this fall with over 80 films celebrating dance in all its forms, from world-class ballet to endangered folkloric traditions. Eighteen in-person screenings run October 23 through November 8 at venues across San Francisco, complete with artist Q&As, panels, and community gatherings, followed by an Online Festival from November 9 through 30 featuring short film programs and online-only features. Join SFDFF 2026 for intimate documentaries, dazzling screendance, and thrilling live performance captures that celebrate the ever-evolving intersection of dance and film.

For more info please visit our website.

Contact the host of Otter Lake | 2026 SF Dance Film Festival