Cover Ayala Land presents International Dance Day Fest: A week-long festival featuring Filipino talent at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater (Photo: Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group)
Ayala Land presents International Dance Day Fest: A week-long festival featuring Filipino talent at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater (Photo: Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group)
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More than 500 dancers will come together to celebrate this year’s International Dance Day Fest. Tatler sits down with Samsung Performing Arts Theater director Christopher Mohnani to learn more about the much-anticipated event
More than 500 artists representing a variety of genres from folkloric traditions will convene at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater from April 24 to 28 to celebrate International Dance Day (IDD).
Initiated by the dance committee of the International Theatre Institute, IDD serves as a worldwide homage to the art of dance and its profound societal influence. Established in 1982, this annual celebration, observed every April 29 in tribute to Jean-George Noverre (the “father of modern ballet”), unites communities through movement across cultural and political divides while recognising dancers and choreographers for their artistic contributions.
In an interview with Tatler, Samsung Performing Arts Theater director Christopher Mohnani highlights the importance of appreciating the diverse talents of Filipino dancers.
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Above Samsung Performing Arts Theater director Christopher Mohnani
Samsung Performing Arts Theater director Christopher Mohnani
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“It’s important that Filipinos get to appreciate and see the artistry and talent of all our dance artists. They are fantastic dancers, fantastic artists,” he says.
The director adds that the IDD fest will provide a platform for the country’s budding and veteran dance companies.
“We need a platform for them to be able to show their art and celebrate it and us as audiences as supporters, and as fans, we want to see that and we want to celebrate it with them. I think it’s high time; it’s been a while since something like this happened, and I think it’s a great opportunity to do that today.”
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Above (Photo: The National Folk Dance Company)
Above Femme Manila (Photo: Loco Motion PH)
(Photo: The National Folk Dance Company)
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Above Abby Bonifacio performing 'Tahan Na'
Above Shaira May Comeros and Joshua Rey Enciso, Ballet Manila Principal Dancers performing Dancing To Verdi Pas de Deux
Abby Bonifacio performing 'Tahan Na'
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This year’s theme, Dance For All, features a variety of performances, including Bungad, a captivating folk dance choreographed by Nicole Primero of Airdance and performed by Carlos Derida, Jr; Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group’s Pindulas, which portrays the Yakan indigenous peoples’ courtship rituals from Basilan Island; Ballet Manila’s Dancing to Verdi pas de deux; and Galaw Co. Dance Theatre’s Tahan Na, a work choreographed by PJ Rebullida.
“I think that’s why a festival like this is important because it brings together all of these different genres that everybody in the society can appreciate,” says Mohnani. “Whether you are a supporter and a fan of fine arts, then you see the ballet gala, or you’re someone who wants to or loves dancing on TikTok or any other platform.”
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Above More than 500 dancers will come together to celebrate this year’s International Dance Day Fest.
More than 500 dancers will come together to celebrate this year’s International Dance Day Fest.
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Mohnani believes that Filipino talent is at par with international standards. “Whether you’re a good singer, actor, or dancer, you’re just as good as any international artist and counterparts, and that’s why we believe in championing Filipino arts. That’s why we open our doors for them. People need to be aware of them,” he concludes.
Below is the schedule of performances:
- On April 25, prepare to be enraptured by the vibrant tapestry of Filipino folk dance. Gracing the stage are Bayanihan, The National Folk Dance Company; Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group; UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe; The Kalilayan Folkloric Group; and PNU Kislap Sining Dance Troupe. Each group brings a unique essence to the spotlight, showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of the Philippines.
- On April 26, the rhythm ignites with hip-hop grooves as street dance crews like UPeepz, Sayawatha, The Crew, Junior Electro Groovers, Mixed Nuts, TPM (Team Package Makers), Femme MNL, Dancehall Manila, and VPeepz electrify the stage with their infectious energy and dynamic moves.
- On April 27, a spellbinding Ballet Gala awaits, promising an evening of timeless grace and elegance. Featured in this captivating presentation are Ballet Manila, Ballet Philippines, Philippine Ballet Theater, Alice Reyes Dance Philippines, Hong Kong Ballet, Steps Dance Project, Association of Ballet Academies in the Philippines, Hope Dance Academy Philippines, and Halili Cruz School of Dance.
- Finally, on April 28, presented in partnership with Contemporary Dance Network Philippines, expect heart-swooning moments by Myra Beltran’s Dance Forum, University of the Philippines Dance Company, Guang Ming College, Airdance, Nude Floor, Nunoy Revlon, Daloy Dance Company, Galaw Dance Company, and Hiraya Dance Company. The event culminates with a Dance in Film Workshop led by Fifth Wall Dance Fest, a revolutionary movement platform founded by dance artist Madge Reyes.
Tickets can be acquired through ticketworld.com.ph.
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In Conversation With Christopher Mohnani, Director of Samsung Performing Arts Theater
Jove holds a degree in Journalism and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Philosophy at the University of the Philippines–Diliman. She has flair for in-depth, interview-driven stories that explore politics and culture, shaped by her background in national broadsheets.
When she’s not on assignment, Jove spends her days painting, sipping lemonade, and walking her dog, Jupiter. She can often be seen in Escolta with a film camera in hand, browsing novelty shops in search of rare memorabilia. For leads, reach her at Jove@tatlerphilippines.com.
