Each year in April, we celebrate this iconic day because it is important to our business and what we stand for. As a specialist arts, alternative education and social enterprise business, we use all forms of Dance and physical expression to inspire, educate, allow children to express themselves and communicate positively.
This day of celebration was first introduced on the 29th April 1982 by the International Dance Council. From this day forward, International Dance Day has been celebrated annually and holds the purpose of attracting the attention of the wider public in to the artistic world of dance. Although it is not linked to any particular performer, it is also the day that French dancer and ballet master Jean-Georges Noverre was born.
‘’ Jean-Georges Noverre (29 April 1727 – 19 October 1810) was a French dancer and ballet master, and is generally considered the creator of ballet d’action, a precursor of the narrative ballets of the 19th century.’’ Wikipedia
This day is embraced by dancers from across the world who in previous years have celebrated the event in a range of different ways. In 2005 the Dance Council proposed for the celebrations to be carried out in schools by writing essays about dance, painting and drawing dance pictures and performing to their peers, whilst in 2014 an estimated 50 classical dancers took part in a flash mob in Chennai, South India.
Every year, the president of the International Dance Council sends out the official message for the celebrations to begin, which circulates in every country around the world and is posted on the official website for the celebration. www.international-dance-day.org
This International Dance Day, Iliffe Arts are celebrating the achievements and career of the talented and inspirational black ballerina, model and role model, Michael DePrince. We hope you are as inspired by her story as we are. AGAINST ALL ODDS
Visit her website to see what she is up to now: www.michaeladeprince.com