Cover Sindaw Philippines Performing Arts Guild, a cultural dance group that celebrates Filipino heritage through traditional folk dances, featuring a performance of ‘Jota Caviteña’ during the press conference of International Dance Day Fest 2026
Sindaw Philippines Performing Arts Guild, a cultural dance group that celebrates Filipino heritage through traditional folk dances, featuring a performance of ‘Jota Caviteña’ during the press conference of International Dance Day Fest 2026
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Experience a spectacular week of movement, culture and global talent at the International Dance Day Fest
Makati continues to meticulously strengthen its prestigious position as a truly vibrant cultural destination, dazzling the discerning aesthete as the highly anticipated International Dance Day Fest makes its triumphant return this April 2026.
This magnificent gathering transcends the ordinary, brilliantly bringing together artists, passionate communities and captivated audiences in a joyous celebration of dance as a universal language that speaks to the very soul. Spearheaded by the visionary team at Ayala Land, the grand affair beautifully reflects a continued, unwavering commitment to nurturing the fine arts and creating deeply meaningful cultural experiences within the bustling heart of the city.
Read more: Her World: Sofia Zobel Elizalde
Above Ronnie Mirabuena, Misha Quimpo, Myra Beltran, Sofia Zobel Elizalde and Christopher Mohnani
Ronnie Mirabuena, Misha Quimpo, Myra Beltran, Sofia Zobel Elizalde and Christopher Mohnani
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To be held at Circuit Makati, a remarkable locale that has grown into much more than a standard urban development, the International Dance Day Fest further expands the thriving cultural hub’s horizons with boundless creativity from Filipino performers, in dynamic collaboration with its engaged community. At the absolute centre of this spectacular celebration is the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, an undeniably world-class venue widely known for hosting critically acclaimed productions and passionately championing the finest Filipino talent.
In perfect, elegant harmony with the global celebration of International Dance Day, this dazzling festival purposefully highlights the profoundly transformative power of movement. Established in 1982 by the esteemed International Theatre Institute, the momentous International Dance Day is joyfully celebrated across the globe every April 29. This significant date was carefully chosen by the institute in honour of Jean Georges Noverre, a historical luminary who is widely regarded as the founding father of modern ballet. The splendid occasion serves as a beautiful, enduring reminder that dance effortlessly transcends geographical borders, diverse cultures and spoken language—intimately connecting people of all backgrounds through the shared beauty of expression.
Above Mixed Nuts, a high-energy street dance crew that brought to life the creativity of the local scene
Mixed Nuts, a high-energy street dance crew that brought to life the creativity of the local scene
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Honouring this grand legacy, this year’s breathtaking celebration brilliantly brings together a wonderfully wide spectrum of dance forms and exceptional talents from across the Philippine archipelago and far beyond. From the timeless elegance of classical ballet and thought-provoking contemporary works to the electrifying energy of street dance and deeply rooted cultural performances, the meticulously curated programme beautifully reflects the unparalleled richness and diversity of the global dance community.
The festival graciously offers educational and interactive experiences designed to bring eager audiences ever closer to the captivating world of dance.
On April 21, the highly esteemed ABT Studio Company artistic director, Sascha Radetsky, will generously lead a special lecture-demonstration tailored for public school students, offering them a rare behind-the-scenes look at how a magnificent performance comes to life. This invaluable, free school presentation will be graciously held at 2pm at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre. In a further display of artistic generosity and excellence, The Joffrey Ballet and Gerald Arpino Foundation répétiteur Christine Rocas will exquisitely stage and teach excerpts from two of Arpino’s well-known works, further highlighting the vital cultural exchange initiatives championed by the International Dance Day Festival.
Above Ballet Manila performers in pas de deux from ‘Paquita’
Ballet Manila performers in pas de deux from ‘Paquita’
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Throughout its run, the festival presents a highly dynamic lineup of performances that thoughtfully highlight diverse styles and cherished traditions of dance, affording fortunate audiences a marvellous chance to experience its many resplendent forms over several unforgettable days.
The festivities officially open on April 22, with a highly anticipated opening gala, featuring the world-renowned American Ballet Theatre Studio Company, who will be joined on stage by the extraordinary special guest principal dancers Thomas Forster and Christine Shevchenko. Aimed at setting the tone for the rest of the week, the opening gala offers a breathtakingly powerful showcase of classical excellence. The exquisite performance of the American Ballet Theatre Studio Company is wonderfully made possible through the generous additional support and partnership from Ayala Foundation and Steps Dance Foundation.
Above Hiraya Contemporary Dance Company, a group known for innovative and expressive movement, performs ‘Sowing’, an excerpt from ‘Animal: Anihan ng Malay’
Hiraya Contemporary Dance Company, a group known for innovative and expressive movement, performs ‘Sowing’, an excerpt from ‘Animal: Anihan ng Malay’
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On Thursday, April 23, the theatrical spotlight tenderly turns to national heritage with the folk and traditional dance gala. This beautiful, culturally rich evening is wholly dedicated to celebrating the profound richness of Filipino culture through mesmerising traditional movement and captivating storytelling. The stage will be graced by an impressive roster of esteemed groups, most notably Bayanihan, The National Folk Dance Company; PNU Kislap Sining Dance Troupe and the renowned UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe. Audiences will also be deeply enthralled by the Sindaw Philippines Performing Arts Guild, UP Filipiniana and the Kaloob Philippine Music and Dance Ministry. The tapestry of local heritage is further woven by the Alun Alun Dance Circle performing alongside the Marikina Dance Guild, Batangas’s own Likhang Sining Dance Company, the Perpetual Sanlahi Pangkat Mananayaw and the Sining Tanglawan ng San Jose Del Monte Performing Group.
Above Christine Shevchenko
Above Christine Shevchenko and Thomas Forster in ‘The Nutcracker’ (Photo: Doug Gifford)
Christine Shevchenko
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As the exhilarating weekend approaches, raw, unbridled energy unequivocally takes centre stage on Friday, April 24, with the vibrant street dance gala. This electrifying evening joyously brings together some of the absolute most dynamic crews and exceptional performers currently igniting the local scene. The spectacular, high-octane lineup of urban artistry features the incredibly talented Unrvld, W3, Mixed Nuts and Eleven 11.
On Saturday, April 25, the highly esteemed ballet gala spectacularly highlights the absolute precision and ethereal grace of classical dance. This sophisticated, enchanting evening proudly features a constellation of some of the country’s leading ballet talents and revered institutions. The illustrious roster includes Ballet Manila, Philippine Ballet Theatre, Ballet Philippines and Alice Reyes Dance Philippines. Joining these titans of the stage are the exceptionally talented artists from Steps Dance Studio and the Association of Ballet Academies in the Philippines.
Read more: A Ballerina’s Journey: Jemima Reyes on why it’s not for the faint of heart
Above Ronnie Mirabuena, Misha Quimpo, Myra Beltran, Sofia Zobel Elizalde and Chris Mohnani with the performers from Hiraya Contemporary Dance Company, Ballet Manila, Sindaw Philippines Performing Arts Guild and Mixed Nuts
Ronnie Mirabuena, Misha Quimpo, Myra Beltran, Sofia Zobel Elizalde and Chris Mohnani with the performers from Hiraya Contemporary Dance Company, Ballet Manila, Sindaw Philippines Performing Arts Guild and Mixed Nuts
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Finally, the week-long festival concludes beautifully on Sunday, April 26, with the cutting-edge contemporary gala. This fascinating, thought-provoking finale presents highly innovative and deeply expressive works that wonderfully reflect the constantly evolving language of modern dance. The spectacular closing programme features visionary performances by Hiraya, UP Dance Company and Galaw.Co Dance Theater. The artistic exploration boldly continues with Benilde Experimental Dance, Airdance, Daloy Dance Company, The Project DP, Rhosam Prudenciado, FEU Dance Company and Dance Forum.
This monumental week of movement and profound meaning, officially known as the International Dance Day Fest, is proudly brought to you by the collaborative brilliance of Ayala Land, Make it Makati, Circuit Makati and the world-class Samsung Performing Arts Theater. The grand cultural endeavour is further bolstered by invaluable additional partnership support from the esteemed Ayala Corporation and the visionary Steps Dance Foundation. Tickets are available at Ticketworld.
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About
Before assuming the Art and Culture Editor position, Franz has always had a penchant for visual and performing arts. He is passionate about exploring and writing about the local cultural scene and rediscovering the country’s storied past and rich heritage. Besides working on this luxury lifestyle magazine, Franz is an avid book reader, local traveller, museum-goer, chorister, and community theatre playwright.
Work
Franz earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Santo Tomas. He writes about local visual and performing artists and their craft; drinks wines, liquors, and spirits and talks about the creativity of their respective winemakers and master blenders; tries to learn more about business and investments; respects the tradition and artistry that go behind the making of watches and jewellery; and appreciates the genius of architecture and creative design.
As head of Tatler Philippines’ pool of writers, he helps them bring impactful and socially relevant stories to light.
For any leads, you may reach him through @franzsorillaiv on Instagram or franz@tatlerphilippines.com via email.
