This time of year signals more than just summer’s half way point, but also the arrival of the beloved annual tradition National Dance Day! Created to inspire Americans to get off of the couch and dance, not only for fun, but also as a means of exercise and combating obesity. National Dance Day was launched in 2010 by “So You Think You Can Dance” creator NIgel Lythgoe.
Although an unofficial holiday, it has spurred wide spread interest, participation and movement, and also forged new traditions and unity among local and national dance communities. Celebrated the last Saturday in July, National Dance Day received major National recognition in 2010 when congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, introduced a National Dance Day resolution to the House of Representatives to promote physical fitness and dance education.
Lythgoe, also the co-president of the Dizzy Feet Foundation, a non-profit organization created to provide dance education and opportunities to under served areas. Dizzy Feet lends its support to National Dance Day by producing videos of the dance routines each year, which participants are encouraged to learn while putting their own unique spin on it. Communities and individuals nationwide perform the routine at their local dance day event (or anywhere), then upload the videos with the hashtag #nationaldanceday. Some of the favorites are later featured during a “SYTYCD” broadcast. There are usually a couple of routines ranging in levels of difficulty to choose from. From a beginner routine created for everyone, regardless of ones dance experience; an advanced routine for the advanced dancers, and on occasion, a seated routine adapted for those with specialized restrictions or limitations. Those located in areas without an official event are encouraged to create their own events.
Not just for dancers, everyone from toddlers to centenarians are encouraged to attend, or participate by getting up and dancing. With support from the Dizzy Feet Foundation, the official events are free and open to the public. They feature interactive dance lessons, live music, outdoor performances and more! The main locations are at New York’s Lincoln Center, Washington DC’s Kennedy Center and Grand Park in Los Angeles, which is the largest (dance) event on the west coast. These three prime locations are typically led and choreographed by “So You Think You Can Dance” alum and choreographers, and often hosted by celebrity guests (such as actress Jenna Elfman), who have a passion for dance and often times a special connection to the dance world.
With many groups hosting everything from fundraisers to flash mobs and all out dance parties, there will be healthy fun for the whole family.
For more information visit, http://dizzyfeetfoundation.org/national-dance-day.
