THE FESTIVAL
Every year, Albania transforms itself into a vibrant stage for the International Dance Festival of Tirana (IDFT), attracting artists, choreographers and dance enthusiasts from all over the world to Tirana. The festival, renowned for its boldness and innovation, offers a unique platform where traditional expressions meet cutting-edge contemporary forms.
The 3rd edition of the festival will run from September 20th to October 12th 2024 and will open with two performances of “Swan Lake” by Ballet Preljocaj on September 20th and 21st at the Tirana Opera House, a first for Albania.
During the course of these 3 weeks, the city of Tirana will vibrate to the rhythm of dance and more specifically contemporary dance. Angelin Preljocaj, the Franco-Albanian choreographer and artistic director of the festival, is committed to promoting the art of dance throughout Albania, with a clear objective: to make Tirana the European capital and a centre of attraction for contemporary dance within the next 5 years.
With the aim of offering an immersive and inclusive experience, the festival goes beyond stage performances and offers a range of workshops and a programme of artistic events (exhibitions, workshops, screenings, etc.).
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As an opportunity to celebrate art and creative expression, the festival plays a major role in supporting cultural productions.
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ANGELIN PRELJOCAJ
ANGELIN PRELJOCAJ
THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Born in the Parisian region from Albanian parents, Angelin Preljocaj began studying classical dance before turning to contemporary dance with Karin Waehner, Zena Rommett, Merce Cunningham, Viola Farber and Quentin Rouillier. Working at the crossroads of the arts, the choreographer frequently teams up with the biggest names in dance, but also in eclectic musical genres, fashion, design, literature and new technological writing. Regularly rewarded for his work, he is recognised and acclaimed by his peers and beyond. For several years now, this former dancer has been developing a new choreographic approach in which he establishes a dialogue between the dancers’ bodies and the image through new technologies.
Angelin Preljocaj is embarking on a new adventure in a country that occupies a special place in his personal history. His commitment as Artistic Director of the International Dance Festival of Tirana goes far beyond a simple return to Albania. Above all, it is a sincere tribute to a country that holds great importance in his heart, a way for him to show his love and gratitude to this nation
THE ASSOCIATION
Founded in 2024, the IDFT Association aims to support, promote and encourage the development of dance and especially contemporary dance in Albania. In part, by organising the International Dance Festival of Tirana and other festival-related activities supported by the Albanian Ministry of Economy, Culture and Innovation.
THE PREVIOUS EDITION
The last edition of the festival was a real success, with 13 performances and over 1,000 seats filled each evening at the Tirana Opera House.
This enthusiasm confirms the validity of the IDFT project, showing that the Albanian capital can pretend to become an incubator in the performing arts.
THE TEAM
Artistic Director : Angelin Preljocaj
Festival Director : Tim Newman
Programmer : Nicole Saïd
Press Officer : Iva Tiço
Coordinator : Océane Beucher
Coordinator in Tirana : Era Kraja
Communication : Maia Girard-Csillag
In association with : Albanian Ministry of Economy,
Culture and Innovation