Happy International Dance Day – 2024
Written by Roneel Narayan on April 29, 2024
International Dance Day is a global celebration of dance, created by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute (ITI), the main partner for the performing arts of UNESCO. The event takes place every year on 29 April, which is the anniversary of the birth of Jean-Georges Noverre (1727–1810), who is considered to be the “father” or creator of modern ballet (ie. classical or romantic ballet as we know it today not “Modern Ballet” as this is sometimes confused with contemporary ballet.) The day strives to encourage participation and education in dance through events and festivals held on the date all over the world. UNESCO formally recognize ITI to be the creator and organizer of the event.
Every year, since its creation in 1982, an outstanding dance personality is selected to write a message for International Dance Day. ITI also created a flagship event in a selected host city, at which there are dance performances, educational workshops, humanitarian projects and speeches made by ambassadors, dignitaries, dance personalities and the selected Message Author for that year.
The day is a celebration day for those who can see the value and importance of the art form of dance and acts as a wake-up call for governments, politicians and institutions which have not yet recognised its value to the people.
To mark International Dance Day each year, on 29 April, the International Theatre Institute invites its members along with dancers, choreographers, dance students and enthusiasts to join them in a Gala Celebration.
The Gala Celebration takes place in a chosen host city decided on by the Executive Council of the International Theatre Institute.
The programme of the Gala Event can vary but usually consists of top-quality dance performances from around the world, student performances, keynote speeches, and a recital of the Message for that year’s event read, in person, by that year’s selected message author.
Beyond the Gala itself, ITI Centres across the globe are encouraged to mark 29 April in their own country through special educational initiatives, humanitarian drives, dance performances and festivals.
