Two-day dance festival celebrated at Shilpakala Academy

A two-day celebration marking International Dance Day was held on April 28 and 29 at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in Dhaka, bringing together hundreds of performers in a vibrant showcase of dance.

The programme was organised by the Music, Dance and Recitation Department under the management of the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, with the support of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs. More than 600 artistes from nearly 50 dance troupes took part in the event.

The opening ceremony took place on April 28 at the National Theatre Hall. State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Nawaz Mahmud Khayyam attended as the chief guest. Dr Zahed Ur Rahman, adviser to the prime minister on information and broadcasting, was present as special guest. The keynote speech was delivered by Ekushey Padak-winning dance researcher and choreographer Amanul Haque.

The session was chaired by the Director General of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy and poet Rezauddin Ahmed Stalin. The welcome address was delivered by the academy’s secretary Mohammad Zakir Hossain.

A colourful procession marked the opening of the programme, featuring traditional drummers and both senior and emerging dancers. The procession began from the front of the National Theatre building and drew the attention of visitors.

The closing ceremony was held on April 29 at the same venue. Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury attended as the chief guest. The session was chaired by Cultural Affairs Secretary Kaniz Mowla, while Rezauddin Ahmed Stalin delivered the welcome address.

On the final day, 22 dance troupes performed a range of dance forms at the National Theatre Hall, showcasing both classical and contemporary styles.

The two-day programme was open to all and attracted a large audience, celebrating the diversity and richness of dance in Bangladesh.