QUICKSILVER — Motion Design for Over-50s Dance
Hand-Drawn Motion and Illustrated Overlays for a Theatrical Dance Campaign
THE BRIEF
The client, Dance Development Centre, wanted to promote its Quicksilver classes – a program created for mature-age dancers who love to move, perform, and express themselves theatrically. The challenge was to capture their spirit in a way that felt dynamic, confident, and fun — avoiding clichés about age or ability. This campaign needed to go live in 48 hours and so this needs to be a quick turnaround.
The idea was to bring a sense of theatre and movement to life by fusing live performance with illustrated motion. Each dancer’s step leaves a trace — ribbons of colour, bursts of texture, playful sparks — embodying the joy of dancing without limits.
Motion Design Process
Each frame was illustrated and composited by hand, syncing the drawn motion to the dancers’ rhythm. Illustrated accents were timed to their gestures. The project was edited in Premier Pro and moved to Procreate Dreams for hand-drawn motion sequences.
Campaign Outcome
The final video was used across DDC’s social channels to promote enrolments for Quicksilver. It resonated strongly with audiences, celebrating the inclusivity and vibrancy of dance for all ages. The piece was part of DDC’s larger rebrand at the time, positioning the centre as open, contemporary, and community-driven, where dance is for everyone.
CREDITS
Creative Direction / Editing / Illustration / Motion: Alex Hallahan
Client: Dance Development Centre
Tools: Procreate Dreams, After Effects, Premiere Pro
Tools: Procreate Dreams, After Effects, Premiere Pro