Today Special : International Dance Day
April 29 is International Dance Day, so put your dancing shoes on and get ready to step out. Dancing is universal — woven into virtually every society all over the world. Humans simply love dance. It brings us together whether we are the ones on the dance floor or are watching the professional performance of others. Dancing is exhilarating and impressive. Let’s honor the world of dance today, together!
WHEN IS INTERNATIONAL DANCE DAY 2022?
Lindy hop, jitterbug, freestyle, tango, ballet, and more, the art of grooving and swaying our bodies is celebrated on International Dance Day on April 29.
HISTORY OF INTERNATIONAL DANCE DAY
The Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute (ITI) established April 29 as International Dance Day in 1982 to highlight the amazing diversity and talent of dancers all over the globe. This date was chosen because it marks the birthday of Jean-Georges Noverre (1727-1810), the creator of modern ballet.
The International Theatre Institute created this holiday to promote dance across the world, to make people aware of the value of dance, and to enable the dance community to promote their work on a broad scale. The hope is for governments and opinion leaders to become increasingly aware of the value and importance of dance in all its forms and support it. On top of all this, International Dance Day was created for us to just enjoy dance for what it is and share the joy with others.
Every year the ITI selects an exemplary choreographer or dancer to write the official holiday message. Their website lists the location of their annual gala as well as other advertised events worldwide.
Evidence of dance has been found dating back 9,000 years and it has grown into a worldwide phenomenon. This holiday encourages people to celebrate their favorite type of dance while also learning new styles. There are dance styles for people of all ages and rhythm capabilities; so there’s no excuse for you not to get involved.
HOW TO CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL DANCE DAY 2021
- Take a class : Have you ever tried Tango? How about Zambian dance? What about Lindy Hop? Maybe you aren’t really a big dancer but, don’t worry, beginner classes are very forgiving. Regardless of your skill level, today is your day to broaden your horizons! Try a dance style you’ve never tried before.
- See a show : Dance performances often feature beautiful costumes, bright colors, and amazing sets. The highest-grossing Broadway show, Lion King, has been seen by over 100 million people since it began in 1997. Even if you cannot see a show in person today, visit the International Theatre Institute’s website for videos featuring a variety of dance styles from around the world.
- Encourage young dancers : Children can begin dance lessons at a very young age. Those who enjoy it and stick with it reap many benefits such as improved physical fitness, higher self-confidence, greater ability to listen and understand instructions, and stronger determination to persevere. Encourage your children to take a chance on dancing!
5 TYPES OF DANCE AROUND THE WORLD
- Ballet : Often referred to as the backbone of dance, ballet focuses on techniques that require a great deal of dedication to master.
- Hip-Hop : Created in the 1970s, hip-hop went mainstream during the 1980s with styles known as breaking, popping, and locking.
- Salsa : The signature hip moves in Salsa dancing come from the dancer stepping while keeping their upper body still and level.
- Bharatanatyam : This traditional South Indian dance originated in Hindu temples and dates back to 1000 BC; it is usually a solo dance performed by women expressing religious and spiritual ideas.
- Dragon Dance : A famous Chinese dance performed by dancers using poles to hold a long, flexible dragon figure; the longer the dragon, the more luck it is believed to bring to the community.
WHY WE LOVE INTERNATIONAL DANCE DAY
- Confidence booster : Did you know dancing increases feelings of self-worth? A 2007 study showed children ages 11 to 14 who took creative movement classes reported improved motivation and attitudes. So, boost your confidence and get your groove on.
- Brain booster : Just five minutes of dancing can increase your creativity. Dancers in one study showed improvements in both mood and creative problem-solving.
- It’s good exercise : Dancing can burn calories. Plus, you’ll never get bored with your workout. Once you get the basics down, there’s a whole world of options.
