The International Festival of Contemporary Dance of the Canary Islands, MASDANZA, was first held in Gran Canaria in 1996 from the initiative of the choreographer and teacher Natalia Medina and with the support of the Department of Culture of the council of San Bartolomé de Tirajana. This department noticed the importance and supported this initiative in order to cover an important area in culture which, to that moment, was not included in the schedule of any public or private institution in the Canary Islands.
From its start in 1996, MASDANZA has consolidated year after year. Its first edition was only regional. However, it became a national event in the second edition and an international event from the sixth edition, so it became known abroad and had the participation of international creators.
MASDANA has developed as an event which gets stronger and more prestigious outside of our community, since this is well known outside Gran Canaria as a cultural alternative, apart from the sun and beach option.
The reliable proof is the increasing assistance of public in every edition. The audience is very curious to discover new talented creators and trends and that is why this festival has become one of the most important national and international dance festivals.
At the beginning, the audience used to be professional and dance lovers. However, the interest of lay public has risen year after year, for the audience has discovered a new and interesting way of artistic expression which seemed to be only aimed at a minority.
The aim of the members of the organization is to offer the best dance quality every year. Thus, prestigious and top-level companies are invited to inaugurate every edition and show their latest productions.
In parallel with the contest, there are different dance seminars and workshops over the week taught by national and international distinguished teachers and choreographers.
Dance is tried to be seen "differently" every year with the exhibitions of different artists and photographers, with showings of video-dance and the section of videos à la carte.
There are also activities such as "dance in open spaces". This is an initiative to bring contemporary dance close to young people. Therefore, exhibitions and meetings are organized in schools, institutes, parks and alternatives spaces where dances perform and show their work.
The organization knows how difficult starting a professional career is for new creators. Thus, the participation in important national and international dance meetings, circuits and spaces is assured for the winning pieces. Furthermore, dancers are supported with grants and incentives.
Therefore, is you love art and the "Net", come and take part if you are devoted to creation or just come as a member of the audience if you want to be up to date and see the new trends of contemporary dance.
