Today we’re celebrating four decades of International Dance Day! The day is an annual reminder of how dancing can have a positive impact on our lives. Not only is it a great workout but it is also a beautiful and artistic way of expression while our bodies interact with music.
The history of International Dance Day
International Dance Day was first created in 1982 by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute (ITI) and has since been celebrated globally. And the date 29 April was chosen in honour of Jean-Georges Nouverre, who was the creator of modern ballet.
The dance committee created the day with the aim that the world will recognize dance as a professional art form. It set out to encourage participation in dance and educate people about the variety of dances in the world.
And in honour of this, multiple events and festivals are held all over the world. These events enabled the dance community to promote their work on a broad scale.
Events and festivities
Since the creation of the day, an “outstanding” dance personality – known as the “Message Author” is chosen to write a special message for the day.
And together with this, a host city is selected where various performances, workshops and humanitarian projects are held.
The main event is called the Gala Celebration where the best dance performance from around the globe is appreciated. The selected Message Author will also present their speech at the gala.
Previous Message Author speakers include Sasha Waltz, William Forsyth and Yury Grigorovich.
“People reflect each other constantly, but when they dance, perhaps what they reflect most is that moment of honesty.”
Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, dancer and choreographer, message author for International Dance Day 2012
Join in on the fun
In honour of International Dance Day, amateurs and professionals all come together to learn new dances.
So get your dancing shoes on – whether they are pointe shoes, tap shoes or regular sneakers – and get moving!
And once you’ve nailed the dance, feel free to share it with the world on social media and tag it under #InternationalDanceDay.
