The International Dance Festival in Tirana opened today at Skanderbeg Square. The event is led by world-renowned choreographer Angelin Preljocaj, who has Albanian roots.
Supported by the European Union, the festival gathers top choreographers from across Europe and Albania. It transforms Tirana into an open stage for contemporary dance.

This edition brings performances beyond traditional theatres. Shows will take place in public and community spaces to engage citizens directly with the art.

The opening performance, “G.U.I.D.” by Ballet-Maestro Preljocaj, took place at the “Let’s Stay Together” Community Center. The show adapts to each space, turning it into a living stage for everyone.

EU Ambassador Silvio Gonzato emphasized the role of art in connecting people. He said dance in public spaces bridges generations, cultures, and nationalities.
“It’s a universal language that breaks barriers and unites people in ways words often cannot,” he said.

This is the fourth edition of the International Dance Festival Tirana. Over three weeks, audiences will see the latest creations from more than 13 international choreographers and dance companies.
The festival offers four public performances in the city and five stage productions at Metropol Theatre and the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet.

On October 10, performances will move to the New Bazaar and Tirana International Airport. On October 11, three morning shows will be held at Metropol Theatre, followed by the evening performance “Puls (Triple Bill)” at the Opera and Ballet Theatre, featuring works by Jiri Kylian, Robert North, and Edi Blloshmi.
The same program will run for two consecutive nights. This year’s edition spans 11 venues, featuring 15 premieres, nine free public events, and several masterclasses linking the festival with the entire city.
Running from October 9 to 25, the festival invites citizens to experience the inclusive and transformative power of contemporary dance.

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