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Annual day to celebrate dance, established by UNESCO

International Dance Day is a global celebration of dance, established in 1982 and promoted by the International Dance Council (CID) at UNESCO, and the International Theatre Institute. The event takes place every year on 29 April, which is the anniversary of the birth of Jean Georges Noverre (1727–1810), who is considered to be the "father" or creator of modern ballet (ie. classical or romantic ballet as we know it today not "Modern Ballet" as this is sometimes confused with contemporary ballet.) The day strives to encourage participation and education in dance through events and festivals held on the date all over the world.

Every year, since its creation in 1982, an outstanding dance personality is selected to write a message for International Dance Day. Partners of UNESCO also create a flagship event in a selected host city, at which there are dance performances, educational workshops, humanitarian projects and speeches made by ambassadors, dignitaries, dance personalities and the selected Message Author for that year. The 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.

To mark International Dance Day each year, on 29 April, dancers, choreographers, dance students and enthusiasts are invited to join in a Gala Celebration. The programme of the Gala Event can vary, but usually consists of top quality dance performances from around the world, student performances, keynote speeches, and a recital of the Message for that year’s event read, in person, by that years selected message author. In Shanghai 2017 for instance, the event became a three day celebration with greater emphasis on education through dance workshops and presentations led by an international cast of dance experts. The evenings were reserved for performances, the finale of which was the Gala Celebration. The Shanghai event also had a humanitarian aspect, with much of its focus being on celebrating the achievements of disabled dancers and encouraging disabled children to dance. Beyond the Gala itself, Partners of UNESCO across the globe are encouraged to mark 29 April in their own country through special educational initiatives, humanitarian drives, dance performances and festivals.