The art of dance is one of the earliest and longest-standing forms of entertainment and community activity known to humankind. Dance is one of the ultimate activities to destress, lose inhibitions, meet new people, and boost physical health.

International Dance Day is celebrated every year on April 29. It is an annual celebration of how dancing positively impacts lives. The annual tradition encapsulates people around the globe, from professional dancers to individuals that would usually stand well back. International Dance Day, also known as World Dance Day, commemorates the birthday of the father of modern ballet, Jean-Georges Noverre.

International Dance Day was created by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute ITI, the main partner for the performing arts of UNESCO. Since its creation in 1982, the International Dance Committee and the International Theatre Institute ITI select an outstanding dance personality to write a message for International Dance Day each year. 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. The essence of the day lies in fostering participation and enlightenment in dance through a myriad of events and festivals held worldwide on this significant date. UNESCO officially recognizes ITI as the architects and coordinators of this culturally enriching celebration.

Since 1982, it has grown into a global celebration with events organised by dance communities, schools, companies, and organisations around the world. These events often include performances, workshops, dance festivals, lectures and other activities aimed at raising awareness of the art of dance and its cultural significance. Each year, the ITI selects a prominent dance figure from the international community to write a message for International Dance Day, which is distributed worldwide. This message usually reflects on the importance of dance in society, its role in cultural exchange and the value of artistic expression through movement. The International Dance Day Message intends to celebrate dance, revel in the universality of this art form, cross all political, cultural and ethnic barriers, and bring people together with a common language - dance.

The theme for International Dance Day in 2024 has not yet been announced by the International Dance Council. However, every year the International Theatre Institute (ITI) features a special message from a distinguished choreographer or dancer as an inspirational celebration of the universal language of dance. This year, the message for 2024 is by Marianela Núñez, a renowned Argentine-British ballet dancer. Marianela highlights the importance of preserving and honouring the history of dance and the contributions of masters, artists, and choreographers. Additionally, she calls for a collective commitment to recognise and revive the legacy of those who have shaped the world of dance, thereby emphasising the need to acknowledge our roots and traditions as the foundation for the future growth and flourishing of the art form.

It is also a time to raise awareness about the significance of dance in people’s lives and to emphasize its value in education, health, and fostering understanding across borders. This celebration recognises the unique traditions and innovations within the world of dance and encourages everyone to participate in this beautiful art form.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF DANCING

Dancing can be a way to stay fit for people of all ages, shapes, and sizes. It has a wide range of physical and mental benefits including:

• Improved condition of your heart and lungs

• Increased muscular strength, endurance and motor fitness

• Increased aerobic fitness

• Improved muscle tone and strength

• Weight management

• Stronger bones and reduced risk of osteoporosis

• Better coordination, agility, and flexibility

• Improved balance and spatial awareness

• Increased physical confidence

• Improved mental functioning

• Improved general and psychological wellbeing

• Greater self-confidence and self-esteem

• Better social skills.