The Dreamsong of Olaf Åsteson: A Dance Journey of the Soul

Directed by Maria-Gabriele Wosien

Film Overview
“The Dreamsong of Olaf Åsteson” is a short film by Maria-Gabriele Wosien that takes viewers on a powerful dance journey of the soul. Set against the backdrop of the mystical Norwegian medieval ballad, the film follows Olaf Åsteson’s dream descent into the underworld. Through expressive choreography, Wosien illuminates the transformative power of dreams and their ability to connect us to the divine.

The film is available in both English and German, and the accompanying book can be purchased via the Metanoia Verlag website.

My Role
I had the pleasure of working on this production as Location Manager and Photographer, and I’m happy to share this beautiful film with you.

About the Artist: Maria-Gabriele Wosien
Dance teacher, choreographer, and writer.
🌐 www.sacreddance-wosien.net
🌐 www.sakraltanz.de

Maria-Gabriele Wosien studied Slavic Studies at the University of London, completing her doctorate on Russian folk tales. In collaboration with her father, renowned ballet master Bernhard Wosien, she co-developed the Sacred Dance practice. Her work integrates Western and Eastern sacred traditions, focusing on the ritual and religious roots of dance folklore.

Through courses, lectures, and seminars across Europe and the Americas, as well as her publications (translated into several languages), Maria-Gabriele Wosien has helped shape the international Sacred Dance movement for over 25 years.

The Dance Film
This evocative choreographic work blends contemporary dance with the natural world. Themes explored include:

  • Instinct and presence
  • Mythical imagery
  • Non-verbal communication
  • Healing through movement

Filming Locations (2010–2011)

  • Winter: Lake Baikal, Siberia, and Taltsi Museum Village, near Irkutsk, Russia
  • Spring: Foothills of the Colombian Andes, South America
  • Summer: Olkhon Island, Lake Baikal

Dance Sequences

  • Einstimmung (Attunement)
  • Oberwelt (Upper World)
  • Geisterland (Land of Spirits)
  • Gjallarbrücke (Bridge of Gjallar)
  • Paradies (Paradise)
  • Bruksvalin
  • Seligpreisungen (Beatitudes)
  • Ausklang (Conclusion)

Music
Composed by Christoph Zimmerli, inspired by traditional Norwegian folk melodies.

Media & Materials

  • Dance Film DVD
  • Music CD
  • Accompanying Booklet (English and German)
  • ISBN: 978-3-905827-96-5