Since 1982*, the world has been celebrating ‘dance’ on April 29th. It is an occasion for dance communities to plan events and invite the public to join them — in classes, to watch performances, and to be a part of the performance!

 “This day is a celebration day for those who can see the value and importance of the art form “dance”, and acts as a wake-up-call for governments, politicians and institutions which have not yet recognised its value to the people and to the individual and have not yet realised its potential for economic growth.”  -International Dance Day Organization (UNESCO International Theatre Institute)

The goals* of International Dance Day are:

• • to promote dance in all its forms across the world
  • to make people aware of the value of dance in all its forms
  • to enable the dance community to promote their work on a broad scale, so that governments and opinion leaders are aware of the value and importance of dance in all its forms and support it
  • to enjoy dance in all its forms for its own sake
  • to share the joy of dance with others

*https://www.international-dance-day.org/

Dance Magazine suggests these five ways to celebrate:

1. Hear from international choreographers about their process.
2. Congratulate the Youth American Grand Prix winners.
3. Dance to give back.
4. Experience a new culture.
5. Expand your horizons.

Click on the link above to read the entire article by Lauren Wingenroth, 29 April 2016.

Photo: Center Dance Ensemble, Phoenix