International Dance Day Fest 2025: Celebrating Movement at Circuit Makati

Circuit Makati continues to solidify its role as a cultural hub with the launch of its second annual International Dance Day (IDD) Fest, set to run from 23 to 27 April at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater. The weeklong festival will showcase dance across a range of genres, from classical ballet to street dance and paradance, featuring over 1,200 local and international artists. The event promises to be a vibrant celebration of movement, bringing together performers and audiences in a shared appreciation of dance as a universal language.

“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,” said Samsung Performing Arts Theater and Circuit Makati Arts and Culture managing director Christopher Mohnani.

“We’re proud to offer a platform where artists can shine together, demonstrating the unifying power of movement on a global stage.”

The festival will kick off on 23 April with an exclusive Opening Gala, featuring a performance by the UK’s renowned Company Wayne McGregor. The highlight of the evening will be the Philippine premiere of Autobiography (v105), a groundbreaking dance inspired by McGregor’s genetic code. The gala will also include a workshop hosted by McGregor for local dancers, offering a unique opportunity for Filipino artists to engage with one of the leading figures in contemporary dance.

A celebration of inclusivity

In addition to world-class performances, the IDD Fest will place a strong emphasis on inclusivity, with paradance — a discipline that integrates dancers with disabilities — playing a central role throughout the festival. “Dance has the power to bring people together, and we want to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, has the chance to experience the magic of movement,” Mohnani added.

A portion of the proceeds from the gala will benefit the Artists Welfare Project Inc.’s HMO fund, which supports the healthcare needs of dancers, further underscoring the festival’s commitment to both artistic excellence and social responsibility.

The festival will feature a diverse range of performances, showcasing the richness and variety of dance styles. Here’s the full lineup:

April 23 — Opening Gala: Featuring Company Wayne McGregor’s Autobiography (v105), along with the workshop by McGregor.

April 24 — Folk Dance Gala: A celebration of traditional dance from the Philippines and around the world, highlighting the beauty of cultural heritage through movement.

April 25 — Street Dance Gala: A high-energy showcase of urban dance styles, celebrating the creativity and innovation of street dancers.

April 26 — Ballet Gala: A graceful and elegant evening dedicated to the classical art form of ballet, featuring performances from leading ballet companies and dancers.

April 27 — Contemporary Gala: A cutting-edge performance of contemporary dance, pushing the boundaries of movement and storytelling in the modern dance world.

Circuit Makati: A hub for arts and culture

As a dynamic and thriving lifestyle destination in the heart of Makati, Circuit Makati offers a vibrant setting for such an impactful event. The district, which has been fostering a creative community for the past decade, is home to the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, one of the premier venues for the performing arts in the country. With its dedication to bringing world-class performances and artistic experiences to the public, Circuit Makati is proud to host the IDD Fest as part of its ongoing commitment to making the arts accessible to all.

Mohnani elaborated on the significance of the festival, “At Circuit Makati, we are always striving to push the boundaries of what entertainment and culture can be. We are honored to host the International Dance Day Fest, as it aligns perfectly with our vision of being a one-stop destination for arts and culture in the heart of the city. Whether you’re a fan of dance, theater, or music, Circuit Makati is a place where creativity comes to life, and we are excited to be part of this global celebration of movement.”

Mark your calendars and join us from 23 to 27 April for a spectacular celebration of dance, culture, and unity. As Mohnani concluded, “We invite everyone to come and experience the beauty and power of dance at the International Dance Day Fest — let’s celebrate movement and the incredible talent that brings it to life!”