About International Dance Day
International Dance Day was created by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute ITI, the main partner for the performing arts of UNESCO in 1982.
It was chosen on April 29th because it was the birthday of Jean-Georges Noverre, innovator, and scholar of this art, teacher, and creator of modern ballet.
This celebration strives to encourage the participation and education of dance through events and festivals held during this date around the world.
Among the objectives of this celebration are:
- Promoting dance worldwide
- Reflect on the value of dance
- Promote the work of dance professionals with the aim of obtaining support
- Enjoy dance and share the happiness of practicing it.
Jean-Georges Noverre was born on April 29th 1727 in Paris. During his lifetime, he was a teacher and ballet dancer. His career developed in different European countries and he worked in prestigious theaters, producing several ballets of great impact.
He is considered the founder of modern ballet, because with his theory he opposed the tradition of classical ballet. Jean-Georges Noverre argued that, more than a display of technique and virtuoso skills, ballet had to convey emotions and cause an effect on the spectator.
Her work influenced the way dance was perceived and how it has evolved over time, as it focused more on narrative and character psychology. Among his most important works are: Les petits riens (1778), Fêtes Chinoises (1754) and La Fille Mal Gardée (1789).
- Did you know? When the Swedish-Italian ballerina Marie Taglioni made her last appearance at St. Petersburg in 1842, a group of her fanatical fans bought her old shoes, cooked them in a special sauce and ate them.
Related Observances
Similar Observances
The Duchess who wasn't Day
Read More
Other Observances on April 29th 2026
World Wish Day
Read More
