International Dance Day Fest 2026: A five-gala fever dream in Makati

Makati strengthens its position as a premier cultural destination as the International Dance Day Fest returns to the Samsung Performing Arts Theater from 22 to 26 April 2026.

Spearheaded by Ayala Land, Make It Makati, and the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, the festival brings together over 1,200 artists in an ambitious celebration of movement and cultural exchange.

The festival follows a disciplined "one style per day" format, allowing each genre a dedicated spotlight.

The week opens on 22 April with a prestigious gala featuring the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) Studio Company. Joined by guest principals Thomas Forster and Christine Shevchenko, the New York-based rising stars bring a global standard of technical precision to the Manila stage. The momentum continues on 23 April with the Folk and Traditional Dance Gala, featuring a deep roster of national companies including Bayanihan and UP Filipiniana.

The energy shifts on 24 April for the Street Dance Gala, showcasing the athleticism of local crews like Unrlvd and Eleven 11. One of the most significant moments for the local dance community arrives on 25 April with the Ballet Gala, a rare unification of the country’s four major pillars: Ballet Manila, Philippine Ballet Theatre, Ballet Philippines, and Alice Reyes Dance Philippines.

The festival reaches its peak on 26 April with the Contemporary Gala. This finale features the return of the powerhouse Hiraya Dance Company, whose performance last year was a masterclass in rhythmic power. Also part of the lineup are Airdance and Daloy.

Beyond the performances, the festival emphasizes education. On 21 April, ABT Studio Company Artistic Director Sascha Radetsky will lead a lecture-demonstration for students, while Christine Rocas of The Joffrey Ballet returns to share her expertise on the works of Gerald Arpino.

Tickets are live at Ticketworld. For more information, please follow Samsung Performing Arts Theater on Facebook and Instagram.