Did you know that this Friday is International Dance Day?   In 1982, the International Dance Committee founded International Dance Day.  The committee picked April 29 to commemorate the birthday of Jean-Georges Noverre, who was born in 1727 and was a great reformer of dance, particularly ballet.

To help with the festivities, Archives and Special Collections has highlighted three of our archival collections that document dance in Nova Scotia:

Neptune Theatre fonds (MS-3-1)

Our largest theatre collection contains administrative records, scripts, production papers, programmes, photographs, publicity materials, etc. 

Halcyon Dance Theatre fonds (MS-3-17)

A small but interesting collection of correspondence, papers and clippings from a former dance theatre in Halifax.  

Jeanne Robinson fonds (MS-3-16)

A fascinating collection of personal papers from an influential dancer and dance instructor.  Read more about Jeanne here.

These collections are just a small portion of our archival records that document visual and dramatic arts across the province. Drop by the archives to see some dance history!

And if you’re looking for somewhere to do some dancing, Dance Nova Scotia is hosting a Flashmob and Free Salsa Lesson this Friday down at the Sackville Landing on the Waterfront.  There are three times (12:10, 12:40, and 1:10).

Check out the International Dance Day – Canada Facebook page for more information on how arts and cultural organizations across the country are celebrating!