AYALA LAND PRESENTS THE 2ND INTERNATIONAL DANCE DAY FEST
A Powerful Showcase of Filipino and
International Talent at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater
Ayala Land’s Circuit Makati continues to make its mark as a dynamic cultural hub, bringing together art, creativity, and community in the heart of the city. As home to some of the country’s most anticipated arts and culture events, Makati has cemented its reputation with signature annual events like Art Fair Philippines—and now, the International Dance Day Fest.
Designed to foster artistic expression, Circuit Makati is more than just a venue—it’s a thriving ecosystem that cultivates collaboration among artists and engages audiences through innovative programs. By focusing on Filipino talent, it’s quickly becoming an essential part of the Philippines' cultural landscape.
Among the standout venues in this district is the Samsung Performing Arts Theater. Known for hosting world-class productions, it continues to serve as a platform for both local and international artists to showcase their craft. As a key player in the arts and culture scene, the theater is set to host a spectacular event that celebrates one of the most universal forms of artistic expression—dance.
Celebrating Dance Across Generations and Genres
This year, the Samsung Performing Arts Theater will proudly host a weeklong festival in honor of International Dance Day (IDD), running from April 23 to April 27. The festival will showcase the best of Filipino and international dance talents, bringing together over 1,200 artists from various dance companies and styles. From traditional folkloric dances to urban beats, classical ballet, contemporary movement, and even paradance—an inclusive discipline that blends dance with wheelchair accessibility—this event offers something for every kind of dance enthusiast.
"International Dance Day is more than just a celebration of movement—it's a powerful reminder of how dance connects us all, transcending boundaries and uniting us through shared expression. By showcasing the artistry of Filipino dancers alongside global performers, we highlight dance as a universal language that connects cultures. We’re proud to offer a platform where they can shine together, demonstrating the unifying power of movement on a global stage." – Christopher Mohnani, Managing Director, Samsung Performing Arts Theater & Circuit Makati Arts and Culture Manager.
The Spirit of International Dance Day
International Dance Day (IDD) was initiated by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute (ITI) in 1982. Celebrated annually on April 29 in tribute to Jean-Georges Noverre, the “father of modern ballet,” this global event recognizes dance as a universal language that transcends cultural and political boundaries. Through performances, workshops, and gatherings, IDD honors the profound impact of dance on societies worldwide and celebrates the work of dancers and choreographers who contribute to this timeless art form.
Now in its second year, Ayala Land's International Dance Day Fest has become a signature event, reinforcing its commitment to arts, culture, and community engagement. This initiative fosters creativity and inclusivity by showcasing dance as a powerful form of artistic expression.
The International Dance Day Fest in the Philippines embraces the theme "Dance For All," underscoring the accessibility of dance in all its forms. From the energy of street dance to the grace of classical ballet, the festival creates a space where people from all walks of life can connect through movement. As a cultural initiative of Ayala Land, this annual celebration reinforces its vision of making arts and culture more vibrant and accessible to the Filipino community.
A Rich Tapestry of Performances
Kicking off this year’s International Dance Day Fest is a highly anticipated opening night gala featuring one of the world’s most renowned names in dance—multi-award-winning British choreographer Sir Wayne McGregor CBE and his acclaimed Company Wayne McGregor. On April 23 at 7:30 PM, the company will present the Philippine premiere of Autobiography (v105), a groundbreaking dance portrait inspired by the sequencing of McGregor’s own genetic code. This specially arranged performance, unique to the Philippine gala, marks a milestone moment for the festival.
As part of their engagement, Company Wayne McGregor will also conduct a special workshop and masterclass, providing a rare opportunity for dancers to learn from one of the most innovative forces in contemporary dance. To further support the dance community, a portion of the proceeds from the opening night gala will benefit the Artists Welfare Project Inc. (AWPI) HMO fund, which provides vital healthcare support for dancers. The premiere of Company Wayne McGregor is made possible in part by The British Embassy Manila, the British Council, and Ayala Corporation.
The festival also marks a special focus on paradance—an inclusive form of dance that integrates dancers with disabilities, enabling them to experience the joy of movement alongside their able-bodied peers. Paradance is a unique and transformative form of artistic expression that promotes inclusion, equality, and the celebration of diversity.
INTERNATIONAL DANCE DAY FESTIVAL 2025 LINEUP
April 23 (Wednesday) - Opening Gala
Company Wayne McGregor, UK London
Presented in part by Ayala Corporation, The British Embassy, and The British Council of Manila
April 24, (Thursday) - Folk and Traditional Dance Gala. Presented in partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines
Bayanihan, The National Folk Dance Company
Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group
UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe
The Kalilayan Folkloric Dance Troupe
PNU Kislap Sining Dance Troupe
RTU Kultura Rizalia Dance Troupe
Sindaw Philippines Performing Arts Guild
CEU Folk Dance Troupe
UE Silanganan Dance Troupe
Kaloob Philippine Music and Dance Ministry
April 25, (Friday) - Street Dance Gala
Femme MNL
UPeepz
VPeepz
A-Team
TPM (Team Package Makers)
Electrogroovers
PID (Power Impact Dancers)
UNRVLD
April 26 (Saturday) - Ballet Gala
Ballet Manila
Ballet Philippines
Philippine Ballet Theater
Alice Reyes Dance Philippines
American Ballet Theatre (made possible by Sofia Zobel-Elizalde)
Hong Kong Ballet (made possible by Elaine Forsgate Marden)
Steps Dance Studio
Association of Ballet Academies in the Philippines
April 27 (Sunday) - Contemporary Gala
Dance Forum
UP Dance Company
Daloy Dance
Galaw
Guang Ming
Hiraya
Nude Floor
Airdance
Mari Dance
Para Dance
Get Your Tickets Now!
🎟️ Tickets available at Ticketworld.
📅 April 23-27, 2025
📍 Samsung Performing Arts Theater, Circuit Makati
International Dance Day Fest 2025 is brought to you by Ayala Land, Make it Makati, Circuit Makati, and the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, with additional partnership support from Ayala Corporation, the British Embassy Manila, and the British Council.
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