Birmingham International Dance Festival returns to the city from 1 – 24 June, showcasing choreography in theatres and a takeover of Birmingham’s streets and squares, championing the best of current choreography and putting local talent on an international stage. In the UK’s leading city for dance, BIDF celebrates the city exploring themes of imagination, digital art and the diversity of dancer’s bodies.
Choreographers and companies include Wayne McGregor, Birmingham Royal Ballet, Compagnie Didier Theron, Rosie Kay, Compagnie TPO, ISH Dance Collective, Compagnie Gilles Jobin & Artanim and Compagnie Dyptik. Together, the focus is on contemporary and current choreography, as well as a look to the future. World class choreography, gravity defying dance, freestyle, inflated latex suits, VR and light shows are set to wow and entertain audiences.
The award-winning festival has now announced the full programme for BIDF. It is a fantastic celebration of dance and performance, taking the Midlands sentry stage with its dazzling displays of dance this summer. Alongside the performance programme will be a series of professional and industry events, debates and workshops, creating a valuable space for dialogue, collaboration and sharing of ideas, as well as skills development.
Under the title of Birmingham Dances, the opening weekend of 2 and 3 June will kick-start the outdoor festivities with a special programme of performances, participatory activities and interactive installations, interweaving dance, fitness and movement activities from local talent. Midlands Arts Centre will host a festival family weekend on 16 and 17 June, bursting with an exciting indoor and outdoor programme for children and families to participate, create and watch dance.