Dancers in pink dresses with "Canton Ballet Legacy in Motion 60" overlay.

The Challenge

Canton Ballet, one of Northeast Ohio’s most prestigious arts institutions, was entering its 60th season, branded “Legacy in Motion.” Known for producing elite professional dancers, they wanted to shift the perception of their brand—not abandoning excellence, but showing a warmer, more accessible side that would appeal to new families, younger dancers, and prospective students.

The brief was clear:

“Show who we really are—not just what we look like on stage.”

Ballet dancer in a studio, wearing a white tiered dress and red flower in hair, standing on pointe with arms elegantly extended. A floral shawl flutters in motion.

Our Approach

We took a documentary-style, behind-the-scenes approach, at this seasons photoshoot. The tone was light, fun, and human. But this wasn’t just casual footage—the visuals were carefully composed, using professional light, slow motion, and soft depth-of-field to maintain cinematic polish.

This contrast—joyful energy paired with aesthetic intentionality—allowed us to reflect both the prestige of Canton Ballet and the personality of its dancers.

Key Techniques:

  • Slow-motion to add weight and elegance

  • Natural sound stripped for web optimization

  • Handheld framing for energy, balance, and authenticity

  • Color grading for warmth and professional tone

Two ballet dancers performing a pose in a studio setting, wearing black leotards and looking poised and graceful against a dark background.

The Result

Three dancers perform in a studio with a red backdrop and professional lighting equipment. The central dancer leaps gracefully in a nude-colored bodysuit, while two dancers in green costumes hold ribbons.

A 1-minute film that functions as:

  • A website header video, welcoming visitors with warmth and cinematic elegance

  • A social-ready promo to drive enrollment and interest in the 60th season

  • A rebrand moment for a legacy institution entering a new era

Despite its light tone, the video communicates one thing clearly:
Canton Ballet is still elite—but now they’re inviting you in.

Client Perspective

I wholeheartedly recommend Monolith Productions to anyone looking for a talented and dedicated videographer.

The video beautifully captures the essence of what we do and who we are and the incredible talent of our dancers. The seamless editing, combined with a thoughtful selection of music, creates an emotional and magical experience that truly represents our mission and artistry. Each frame is a work of art, highlighting the grace and strength of our dancers in a way that is both visually striking and poignant.

Thank you for capturing the magic of Canton Ballet so beautifully – we are beyond grateful!

Jennifer Catazaro Hayward
(Director, Canton Ballet)

The Impact

Ballet dancers posed in a studio with large lighting equipment, wearing black outfits and pointe shoes.

At Monolith, we believe legacy doesn't have to feel distant.
This piece proves that high-end creative can be both beautiful and approachable, without compromising the brand’s values.

Looking to transform your brand’s identity through cinematic storytelling?

Let’s make something timeless.