Tirana will stage its first International Dance Festival from October 9 to 25. Renowned dance companies will perform in ten locations across the capital.

Prime Minister Edi Rama posted a video message from Albanian-French choreographer Angelin Preljocaj, who brings the festival to Tirana.

Preljocaj called the event “a true celebration of modern dance.” He confirmed shows at the National Theater of Opera and Ballet, the National Theater, Metropol, Puppet Theater, and other venues.

His company G.U.I.D will also perform free shows in unexpected city spaces. “We want to fill Tirana’s streets with movement and joy,” Preljocaj said.

He thanked the Ministry of Culture, the Municipality of Tirana, the EU, and partners for making the festival possible.

Preljocaj, born in France to Albanian parents, trained in classical ballet before turning to modern dance. Since 1985, he has led his own company, performing worldwide and earning acclaim as one of the leading choreographers of his generation.

He has often returned to Albania, staging free performances at the National Theater of Opera and Ballet. In past years, he organized the International Festival of Contemporary Dance in Tirana, inviting leading European companies.

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