Dance Fest Skopje

Dance Fest Skopje 2027 | 10–26 April | Skopje, North Macedonia

Founded in 2005 by choreographer Risima Risimkin, Dance Fest Skopje is an international contemporary dance festival in North Macedonia, connecting artists, choreographers, dance companies and audiences from across Europe and beyond. With more than two decades of artistic excellence and international collaboration, the festival has established itself as one of the most important meeting points for contemporary dance in the Balkans. 

Organised by Interart Cultural Center and led by Festival Director Matea Mijanovikj since 2022, Dance Fest combines a rich artistic heritage with a forward-looking vision, presenting innovative performances, international productions, emerging choreographers and new approaches to movement and performance. 

Rooted in Skopje and connected to the international dance scene, the festival brings together established artists and new generations of dance makers through several distinctive programme strands. Its International Performance Programme presents contemporary dance productions and renowned and emerging choreographers from around the world, while the Skopje Dance Platform and other professional encounters showcase regional artistic voices, new creations and emerging talent, connecting artists with international programmers and cultural professionals. DanceTech explores the intersection of dance, technology and digital innovation through immersive experiences, virtual reality, motion capture and interdisciplinary experimentation. Alongside performances, the festival offers workshops, residencies, open studios, artist talks and professional encounters that encourage artistic research, collaboration and creative exchange. 

An important part of the festival's identity is the Menada Award, which recognises outstanding artistic achievements and contributions to the development of contemporary dance. Presented by Dance Fest Skopje, the award celebrates distinguished artists and choreographers whose work has shaped and inspired the international dance landscape. Through the Menada Award, the festival honours artistic excellence, creative legacy and the individuals who continue to advance contemporary dance as an evolving art form.

International collaboration is at the heart of Dance Fest. The festival is a founding member of Dance Festivals Network Europe (DFNE) and Moving Balkans, and a partner in the Visiting Artist Programme (VAP), supporting international mobility, artistic exchange and professional development for emerging dance artists. Through its involvement in European cultural networks and collaborative initiatives, Dance Fest contributes to cross-border cooperation, new artistic partnerships and the international visibility of contemporary dance from North Macedonia and the wider European context. 

Dance Fest is equally committed to bringing contemporary dance closer to diverse audiences. By combining artistic excellence with experimentation, accessibility and contemporary urban energy, the festival invites both experienced dance enthusiasts and curious newcomers to discover new perspectives through movement.

https://interart.com.mk/en/dance-fest/

dancefest@interart.com.mk