[3] The event takes place every year on 29 April, which is the anniversary of the birth of Jean-Georges Noverre (1727–1810), who is considered to be the "father" or creator of modern ballet (ie.
The day strives to encourage participation and education in dance through events and festivals held on the date all over the world.
In Shanghai 2017 for instance,[4] the event became a three-day celebration with greater emphasis on education through dance workshops and presentations led by an international cast of dance experts.
The evenings were reserved for performances, the finale of which was the Gala Celebration.
[5] Beyond the Gala itself, Partners of UNESCO across the globe are encouraged to mark 29 April in their own country through special educational initiatives, humanitarian drives, dance performances and festivals.