International Dance Day aims to raise awareness about the benefits of dance and bring people together through it. Dance can be a powerful tool to express yourself or just a way to enjoy. It can also serve as a physical exercise or therapy for some people. International Dance Day highlights these qualities of dance and encourages people to celebrate it. Dancing regularly may also improve your memory and help wash away stress and anxiety and fight symptoms of depression.
International Dance Day was established in 1982 by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute (ITI), UNESCO’s main partner for performing arts. It was first celebrated on April 29 to mark the birthday of Jean-Georges Noverre (1727-1810), the creator of modern ballet. Since then, the Day is being observed annually to celebrate the art form.