International Dance Day 2020

International Dance Day 2020 – Wednesday 29th April 2020

What is International Dance Day?

International Dance Day is a worldwide event that celebrates all genres of dance.

It was created by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute (ITI) - the world's largest organisation for the performing arts.

It tries to encourage participation and education in dance by hosting events and festivals across the world. It celebrates those who appreciate the value of dance and acts as a wake-up call to the governments and politicians who have not yet recognised its value to the people.

It also celebrates bringing together people of different cultures, and respects and understands diversity.

When is International Dance Day celebrated?

International Dance Day takes place on 29th April every year. This year it is on Wednesday 29th April 2020.

This day is significant as it is the anniversary of the birth of Jean-Georges Noverre (1727-1810), the creator of modern ballet.

When did International Dance Day start?

The first International Dance Day was celebrated in 1982.

How is it celebrated?

There are events and festivals across the globe that take place - some organised by the ITI themselves, and some by independent organisations.

One of these events organised by the ITI is the Gala Celebration held in a selected host city. There are performances, workshops, speeches and humanitarian projects that take place.

Every year a difference dance personality is also selected to write a message for International Dance Day and this is also delivered at the Gala Celebration in the host city and spread across the world.

There are some links below for you to join in with International Dance Day 2020:

• International Dance CBBC’s Top Picks: International Dance Day for dance routines, games and quizzes:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/cbbc/curations/cbbc-top-picks-today

• Celebrate International Dance Day and watch your favourite athlete’s lockdown moves:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/av/52472728

• Join in with International Dance Day by dancing away to some of the dance links on the school website and load your dance videos on Seesaw for your teachers to view:

https://www.becontreeprimaryschool.com/the-arts/