The ancient theater of Dionysus in Athens is also the most ancient dance theater in the world. There is historical evidence that dance rites as well as dramas including dance were enacted there 2,500 years ago! The English word orchestra came from the Greek word for the space in front of a stage, meaning dance floor, which was first used for this very theater. The monument, which stands opposite to the Acropolis, is once again in the spotlight as the city hosts 50th World Congress on Dance Research. Fifteen dancers from Oman showcased their steps during the event. It is the largest gathering of dance practitioners, dance teachers, choreographers, researchers and journalists in the world. Around 300 delegates from 30 countries are attending the mega event at Dora Stratou Dance Theatre.
The International Dance Council or Conseil International De La Danse (CID) which organises the Congress, in April launched the Muscat section of CID.
Noted Armenian dance researcher, teacher and choreographer Anahit Saribekyan (Anah ) from CID, who was in Muscat for the International Dance Day celebrations announced the decision to open the Muscat section.
“Oman is a lovely and hospitable country,” says Anah who represents the Vanadzor section of CID, which is the third-largest city of Armenia. She heads the Anah Sari International Arts Academy and is actively involved in promoting ‘Kochari’, an Armenian folk dance in circles.
Upon Anah’s invitation, about 15 dance professionals led by Premila Ramesh, Director, Nrityanjali, led Oman’s delegation at Athens event.
Premila and her senior students performed and conducted lecture demonstrations in Greece during the Congress.
Professionals and dance institutes in Oman were invited to become members of this only international organisation of dance that recognises and supports all forms without any discrimination.
“We are looking forward to put up a good performance at our maiden performance at the Athens Congress and the dance students from Oman are all enthusiastic,” says Premila.
At the Congress, Premila delivered a lecture demonstration at the Kavafis Hall and also performed ‘Layam and Mazhai’ at Dora Stratau Theatre and another performance called ‘Asathoma.’
Saeed Sultan al Busaidy, Director- General of Traditional Arts, Ministry of Heritage and Culture, who was the chief guest during the International Dance Day celebrations, assured help to all dance forms in Oman.
CID is the official umbrella organisation for all forms of dance in all countries of the world and Prof Dr Alkis Raftis from Greece is the President of the International Dance Council.
This year, International Dance Council (CID) joined forces with the World Food Programme (WFP) and government of Principality of Monaco to create Dance to Zero Hunger, a project to promoting healthy eating through dance and education.
Recognised by Unesco, national and local governments, international organisations and institutions, CID is a non-governmental organisation founded in 1973 within the Unesco headquarters in Paris. Its members span over 170 countries.
Given the active participation and number of registered members, CID forms a section in that country. An executive body for managing its operations is also appointed.
Liju Cherian
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