International Dance Day 2024: Gala of Professional Dance groups

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Painting and dancing have the advantage over other arts that they are common to all countries and all peoples; their language is understood by all and makes the same impression everywhere.
(Jean-Georges Noverre)

In 1982, the International Theatre Institute (ITI) Dance Committee first proclaimed 29 April as International Dance Day on the occasion of the birth of the French dance reformer Jean-Georges Noverre (1727–1810). From that moment on, this globally recognised holiday (registered under UNESCO) spread to all countries of the world, symbolically linking different nations and their cultures through the universal language of dance. Each year, a dance personality is also asked to give a message on this day and their message then travels across the planet.

In addition to the traditional events held in the Czech Republic, culminating in a gathering of performers and spectators of many dance styles on Střelecký ostrov, this year for the first time there will also be a special gala performance at the New Stage, on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 April 2024.

Art 4 People, in collaboration with artistic partners, will offer audiences two original performances by the best companies from the Czech Republic.

GALA of professional companies – 28 April at 8m
Leading soloists of the national and regional ballets, and representatives of independent professional companies will dance during the evening. They will present short choreographies emphasising technical and artistic virtuosity. The original programme will consist of variations and choreographies from the classical and modern repertoire.

International Dance Day in Prague, 29 April  
The programme on Střelecký ostrov will undoubtedly delight dance fans and the general public alike. Stretching throughout the day, it will feature dozens of dance performances, workshops focused on a variety of dance genres, dance classes and evening parties, as well as  a concert of Pekař and his band. Entrance to all events will be free. Pekař’s song Vrcholky a pády will represent the motto of this year’s celebrations. Jakub Mazůch, a finalist of the most recent StarDance edition, will prepare for it a nationwide flashmob. More information is available at www.mezinarodnidentance.cz.