
Support "Favourite Boy" at Innovate Dance Film Showcase 2025
Donation protected
Hi! I'm Kate, a dancer, choreographer and filmmaker based in Toronto, Ontario, and my film pitch was accepted into Innovate Dance Film Showcase 2025. This is my first time submitting and also first time being accepted into this showcase, but I'm extremely honoured and excited to showcase my idea!
I've assembled a team of amazing crew members and an awesome cast and together we'll be able to put together a really impactful film - but it would be awesome to have a little extra financial support as I'm currently funding this project myself.
Here's a little bit more information.
How Your Donation Can Help
I’m currently funding my project myself. With community support I would be able to bring my project to life in the way that I envisioned it. A donation of any size would greatly impact my ability to produce this film. These are examples of what your contribution would be going towards:
• Theatre rental & technician (oof)
• Catering for the cast and crew
• Space rental for rehearsals
• Camera gear & lighting rental
• Honorarium for key crew members
Backer Rewards:
Any dollar amount is incredibly considerate and I will include you in the ending credits should you wish to be named. I also hope that I am able to do more projects like this in the future that are funded by grants and other funding bodies, thus creating future opportunities for members of the dance and arts community in Toronto.
Concept Summary:
This is a short dance film that explores the emotional complexity of longing, rejection, and resilience within the dance industry. Set in a theatrical space, the film follows an artist grappling with feelings of invisibility and self-doubt, reflecting on moments of missed opportunities and the ache of watching others shine while questioning one’s own place in the spotlight.
Inspired by the song “Favourite Boy” by Half Moon Run, the film uses lyrical and cinematic storytelling to examine the inner dialogue of an artist who has felt unchosen— who supports their peers' successes while privately confronting jealousy, uncertainty, and the desire to be seen.
Team members:
- Lead Choreographer and Filmmaker: Kate McDonald, a Toronto-based choreographer and filmmaker who has been featured in Fever After Dark “Divas” (choreographer), SEEN TO’s inaugural film showcase (videographer) and has been a part of Studio North Toronto’s videography team for nearly 3 years.
- Assistant Director: Phil Kim, lead Studio North Toronto Videographer and accomplished freelance dance videographer
- Assistant Choreographer: Magz Dila, choreographer of Cake Cabaret's "Drag vs Cabaret" and dancer in Cake Cabaret. Teacher at Run The Flex dance studio and U of T Hart House in Toronto.
- Lead Production & Lighting: Kaylee McCullough, UHHU director, Digital Content and Social Media Coordinator at DanceWorks.
- Wardrobe and Styling: Holly Fisher, founder of DIMMI DIMMI, a fashion company that works with emerging designers to bring them opportunities.
Reason for creating:
I was inspired to create this film after a recent experience that made me question whether I should continue dancing or sharing my artistic work. Around the same time, I came across the song "Favourite Boy," and something about its energy and emotion sparked an idea.
This film is a reflection of where I am in my dance journey—everything it’s taken to get here, and the ongoing process of navigating what it means to belong in this industry. I want dancers, choreographers, and artists to see this piece and feel understood.
Mood board
If you made it all the way to the end thank you for reading! And if you decide to donate thank you so much for your support - Kate & the Favourite Boy team
Organizer
Katherine McDonald
Organizer
Toronto, ON