International Dance Day

What Is International Dance Day?

Every year on April 29th, the world observes "International Dance Day," launched in 1982 at the initiative of the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute (ITI), a performing-arts NGO that works in partnership with UNESCO, and it is also promoted by the International Dance Council (CID). It aims to promote dance's artistic and cultural value around the world. The date marks the birthday (April 29, 1727) of Jean-Georges Noverre, the French dancer regarded as the father of modern ballet.

Background to the Founding of International Dance Day

Dance is an art form that transcends language and culture, bringing people together and beloved around the world. International Dance Day was created so that dancers, choreographers, and audiences alike could celebrate the value of dance together.

• Established: 1982, by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute
• Annual tradition: Each year, a prominent figure from the dance world writes an "International Dance Day Message" that is shared worldwide
• Purpose: To promote dance and develop arts and culture
• Origin: Noverre's birthday

Who Was Jean-Georges Noverre?

Noverre was an 18th-century dancer and choreographer who transformed ballet into a narrative art form. His book "Letters on Dancing and Ballets," published in 1760, became the foundation for ballet reform and helped shape the ballet we know today.

• Emphasis on storytelling in ballet: Established a style that prioritized dancers' acting ability and emotional expression.
• Integration of stage arts: Championed the idea of unifying music, costume, and stage design into a cohesive whole.

Interesting Facts About Dance

• One of the oldest art forms: Traces of dance can be found in the cave paintings and rituals of ancient civilizations.
• Mind and body together: Dance means memorizing choreography while moving to music — an activity that uses both mind and body at once.
• A world of diverse styles: Ballet, hip-hop, flamenco, tango, and traditional folk dances have each developed uniquely within their cultures.
• Nonverbal communication: Dance has the power to convey emotion and tell stories without a single word.

Ideas for Celebrating International Dance Day

• Watch dance videos: Experience performances by some of the world's top dancers.
• Try a dance class: Ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and more -- many classes welcome beginners.
• Stretch or move to a rhythm: A simple way to ease into dance, just by moving your body.
• Go see a live performance: Watching dance live in a theater is a special experience.
• Dance with your kids: Moving to music together is a fun and easy way to connect.

April 29th: A Day to Connect With the World Through Movement

International Dance Day celebrates the expression, connection, and joy that dance brings. Dance isn't just for professionals -- it's a universal art form everyone can enjoy. Even simply swaying to music can be a nice change of pace.

On April 29th, move to your own rhythm and feel the magic of dance. A rich world beyond words is waiting for you there.