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(Tumon, Guam) — The Guam Visitors Bureau is proud to announce the launch of registration for the inaugural Guam International Dance Festival (GIDF), a regional showcase and competition celebrating cultural heritage, creative expression, and artistic excellence. The festival is set to take place on December 6-7, 2025 in Tumon, Guam.
"We're honored to present the inaugural Guam International Dance Festival set for the first weekend in December. We are creating new opportunities that deliver enriching cultural experiences and attract new market segments, which aligns with GVB’s tourism recovery strategy," said Régine Biscoe Lee, GVB President and CEO.
“Destination Guam is an inclusive intercultural hub serving as the gateway to Micronesia and a prime connecting point for the many cultures of the Asia Pacific region,” said Lee. “We look forward to this exciting celebration of the performing arts, as another exciting way to engage travelers, and provide unique experiences while highlighting cultural preservation.”The Guam International Dance Festival will include dance workshops, along with live performances featuring two primary divisions: Cultural Dance and Contemporary Dance. Performing artists from Guam and around the region, including schools, studios, and cultural organizations, are invited to register and take part in the festivities. Festival highlights will include:
Diverse Categories
The Cultural Dance division will feature traditional, ceremonial, or folkloric dances (e.g., CHamoru, Carolinian, Chuukese, Yapese, Palauan, Marshallese, Pohnpeian, Pingelapese, Kosraean, Samoan, Polynesian, Filipino, Korean, Japanese, Taiwanese), emphasizing authentic representation and attire.
The Contemporary Dance division will highlight modern, lyrical, interpretive, theatrical, or conceptual dance, focusing on innovation, storytelling, and emotional range.
Age and Group Size Divisions
Participants will compete in Youth (6-12), Teen (13-17), Adult (18+), and Mixed/Open age divisions. Group sizes include Small Group (5-14 dancers) and Large Group (15-50 dancers).
Judging Criteria
A panel of qualified judges will score performances based on specific criteria for each division. Cultural Dance will be judged on authenticity, execution, choreography, costume, and stage presence. Contemporary Dance will be evaluated on technical skill, originality, musicality, expression, and overall impact.
Awards and Recognition
The top three entries in each category and age division will receive medals or trophies. Special awards will also be presented, including Best Cultural Representation, Best Contemporary Concept, Best Costume, Most Creative Concept, and People’s Choice.
Commitment to Respect and Inclusivity
The festival emphasizes a family-friendly environment for cultural exchange. All participants, coaches, and audience members are expected to demonstrate respect and uphold integrity. Misrepresentation or misuse of cultural traditions will not be tolerated.
Registration is now being accepted online at visitguam.com/gidf66. All participants must submit complete registration forms by October 10, 2025 in order to receive a slot confirmation. Additional performance details and music must be provided before the December 1, 2025 deadline. Minors require parental or guardian consent.The Guam International Dance Festival promises to be a vibrant and exciting event, fostering artistic collaboration and celebrating the universal language of dance.
For sponsorship opportunities or to volunteer for this event, please contact GVB at 646-5278 or info@visitguam.org.
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