Tuesday, June 9, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

Global Dance Day: Dance heals, unites for progress, scholars, practitioners remind the world

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…as dancers celebrate world dance days

The Association of Dance Scholars and Practitioners of Nigeria (ADSPON), has reminded the world that dance, though often prejudiced by some section of the society, has great potentials to heal, unite and bring progress and meaningful development to an emotionally troubled world.

ADSPON, in a statement released by the association to mark the world Dance Day, April 29, signed by its national President, Prof. Mariam Asabe Iyeh, and made available to newsmen on Tuesday evening assured that dance posseses the potentials to heal, unite and elicit progress in every society facing challenges. Prof. Iyeh who is a fellow of ADSPON, and fellow of the Society of Nigerian Theatre Artistes (SONTA) said this year’s celebration of dance day was tagged: “Dance: A Universal Language of Humanity, Healing, and Hope.”, adding that the theme reflects dance’s capacity to bring hope to a troubled soul and society. The statement reads in part: “On this special occasion of World Dance Day 2026, the Association of Dance Scholars and Practitioners of Nigeria (ADSPON) joins the global community in celebrating the power of dance as a tool for expression, unity, cultural preservation, and human connection. In alignment with the global vision of UNESCO, we recognize dance as more than performance—lt is identity, education, therapy, storytelling, and a bridge across cultures and generations.

“In a world faced with social, emotional, and cultural challenges, dance continues to: Heal minds and bodies; Unite diverse communities; Preserve our rich cultural heritage and Inspire creativity and innovation. As scholars and practitioners, we reaffirm our commitment to advancing dance as a vital force for education, peace building, mental well-being, and sustainable cultural development in Nigeria and beyond. Let us continue to move, create, and inspire—because when we dance, we speak a language the world understands. Happy International Dance Day!”, She said.