The Festival

Every October, Tirana pulses with the rhythm of contemporary dance. Through the International Dance Festival of Tirana (IDFT), the city becomes a stage, and its theatres, squares, galleries, and unexpected corners are transformed by movement and imagination.

Now in its 4th edition, taking place October 8–25, 2025, IDFT continues to open new spaces for artistic dialogue, expand access to dance, and energize Albania’s cultural landscape. More than a festival, IDFT is a growing platform for connection, creativity, and exchange.

The festival is an initiative of the IDFT Association, founded in 2024 to support the development of dance in Albania, with a special focus on contemporary practice. Its mission is carried forward with the support of the Albanian Ministry of Economy, Culture and Innovation, and a wide network of partners, sponsors, and friends.

Shows

premieres

public events

free dance classes

different venues

"As an opportunity to celebrate art and creative expression, the festival plays a major role in supporting cultural productions."

ANGELIN PRELJOCAJ

The artist director

ANGELIN PRELJOCAJ

Angelin Preljocaj, the festival’s Artistic Director, brings to Tirana his unique artistic voice and international vision. A world-renowned choreographer of Franco-Albanian heritage, Preljocaj is celebrated for his daring and poetic approach to movement. Working across dance, music, literature, fashion, and digital arts, his work continues to shape the global dance landscape.

As Artistic Director of IDFT, Angelin returns to his roots, with the desire to nurture the next generation of dancers and make Tirana a beacon of contemporary dance in the region and beyond.

Honorary Board Members

Frédéric Jousset

Frédéric Jousset is a French entrepreneur and philanthropist, best known as the co-founder of Webhelp, a global leader in customer experience outsourcing. Passionate about democratizing access to culture, he founded the Art Explora Foundation in 2019, launching initiatives like mobile museum trucks, digital learning platforms, and the world’s first floating museum, the ArtExplorer catamaran. His extensive contributions to the arts have earned him numerous honors, including the Legion of Honor and the Grand Star of Public Gratitude from the Republic of Albania.

Hubert Védrine

Hubert Védrine is a distinguished French diplomat and political figure who served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1997 to 2002. He was a close advisor to President François Mitterrand, holding roles such as diplomatic advisor, spokesperson, and Secretary-General of the Élysée Palace. Post-politics, Védrine has remained influential through teaching at Sciences Po and participating in various international and cultural organizations.

Agnès Touraine

Agnès Touraine is a leading expert in corporate governance and digital transformation, currently heading Act III Consultants. She previously served as Chairwoman and CEO of Vivendi Universal Publishing and held senior roles at the Lagardère Group and McKinsey. Touraine sits on the boards of several major international companies and is an established voice on innovation and leadership.

Suzanna Flammarion-de Bokaÿ

Suzanna Flammarion-de Bokaÿ is the founder and CEO of ArtForce, a consultancy specializing in collaborative intelligence and communication. She created the GPS-Relationnel method, a neuroscience-based tool to enhance teamwork, recruitment, and leadership effectiveness across industries. She is also the author of “Bien se comprendre pour mieux s’entendre”, a practical guide on improving interpersonal communication in the workplace.

Donika Bardha

Donika Bardha is an American of Albanian heritage, renowned for her advocacy of Albanian arts, culture, and heritage. A Mount Holyoke College alumna with a background in Economics and Art History, she has been instrumental in cultural diplomacy, organizing significant events and humanitarian efforts in Albania and Kosovo. Her contributions have been recognized with high honors, including the Presidential Medal from the Republic of Kosovo.

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The Festival

Shows

premieres

public events

free dance classes

different venues

"As an opportunity to celebrate art and creative expression, the festival plays a major role in supporting cultural productions."

ANGELIN PRELJOCAJ

The artist director

ANGELIN PRELJOCAJ