Director/producer/editor Lisa Blackstone discusses polka’s dwindling future, Mi-Del ginger snaps and stepping on dancers’ toes.

What do you hope to achieve with POLKA TIME?

I hope that people who see the film appreciate this curious little subculture that is part of the U.S. and part of us. I also hope that the audience can tap into and relish its own joy—whatever it may be.

What led you to make this film?

I am fascinated by the joy polka lovers get out of the polka. I mean, it is a rather unfashionable pastime and still the folks who love it really LOVE it. They don’t care that it is the ultimate in untrendy…. They just want to do what makes them happy—regardless of its popularity.

How have audiences reacted to your film?

They love it. They laugh and have a good time. Many folks who have never been involved or interested in the polka say they want to attend the polka festival. In fact, the two camera guys on the shoot (both in their mid-20s) were so enthused by the event that they vowed to come back the next year.

What do you think is the future of polka?

Sadly, I think the polka will dwindle. There will likely be a core group of people who continue to dance the dances and play the music, but as time passes and people die, that group will get smaller and smaller.

The independent film business is a difficult one. What keeps you motivated?

I think there are so many stories to tell and independent filmmaking is one way to tell them. I love that there are quirky, interesting people in the world. Telling their stories keeps me motivated.

What was the funniest thing that happened during the making of POLKA TIME?

If anyone had seen me dance with one of the POLKofA guys, they would have had a good laugh. I have to say that I stepped on his toes more times than I care to remember! As I say, everyone can polka but not everyone can polka well. I most definitely cannot polka well.

What didn’t you get done when you were making your film?

During the shoot, which was five solid days of polka, I didn’t get much of anything done. I think I brushed my teeth. I’m pretty sure I slept a bit.

Why did you choose to present your film on public television?

In my mind, public television is the only place that would even work for a program like POLKA TIME. The public television audience is perfect for this kind of programming. They appreciate the world’s humanity, are curious about life, and are open to lifestyles that are not necessarily their own. They aren’t looking for something sensationalist or exploitive. They want real reality without hype and stunt programming getting in the way. What more could a filmmaker want?

What are your three favorite films?

Oooo, it’s hard to pick just three. Here are the first three that come to my mind: Casablanca, Singin’ in the Rain and Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

If you weren’t a filmmaker, what kind of work do you think you’d be doing?

For creative fulfillment I’d be making photographs and making television. For financial fulfillment I’d probably be a massage therapist/television producer/teacher.

What do you think is the most inspirational food for making independent film?

Mi-Del ginger snaps and jasmine pearl green tea. Nothing finer.

What advice do you have for aspiring filmmakers?

Find a story you like and go shoot it. Work with the best crew you can put together. Trust your judgment as well as your crew’s. And have a little fun with it. Because if it isn’t a little bit fun, then it’s not worth it.

What sparks your creativity?

Movement. Of all kinds. People dancing. Athletes doing their thing. Conductors conducting. And, when I get stuck on a problem, I like to move. I skate or pace or dance. It helps my mind come unstuck.

What are you working on now?

I’m working on another couple of documentaries with the same broad theme of people who are passionate about non-mainstream activities.

If you could have one motto, what would it be?

Everyone has a story to tell.