Toronto, ON, July 5-7 – North York was the vibrant center of dance and celebration as the Dance on Yonge 2024 festival brought the entire GTA together for an unforgettable three-day event. Organized and hosted by the Canadian Arts and Wellness Alliance (CAWA), the festival left a lasting impression on both audiences and artists with its mesmerizing array of performances and interactive activities.
A Community Comes to Life
Dance on Yonge audience attendance 2024 soared, nearly doubling from the previous year, with over 17,000 spectators gathering at the main evening stage. The festival buzzed with energy as participants eagerly joined in various interactive activities, from salsa rueda circles to aerial yoga sessions. A nighttime social dance under the stars drew nearly 100 dance enthusiasts, epitomizing Toronto’s summer romance.
The festival featured 35 teams from across Ontario, comprising over 1,000 artists and dancers. The central stage came alive with Latin, modern, traditional, hip-hop, and K-pop dance acts, accompanied by continuous music from 16 musicians and DJs. The opening ceremony dazzled with performances by national dance champions, setting a high bar for the festival’s artistic excellence.
Over 200 dancers from 20 top teams competed fiercely over three days, with 10 professional judges overseeing the contests. The excitement culminated in 35 individual and 10 team winners taking home over $4,000 in cash prizes and valuable awards, showcasing the immense talent present.
More than 600 teenagers participated in K-Pop Random Play Dance marathons at Yonge Street entrance and the Reflecting Pool. K-pop performances by top teams in Toronto and participants in creative costumes drew large crowds, adding to the festival’s allure.
Students and instructors from festival sponsor, Star Dance Centre, presented a range of performances, from children’s ballet and Latin dance to hip-hop and heels dance. These performances highlighted the school’s high-caliber teaching and creative prowess.
Fiona Su, Founder and CEO of Star Dance Centre, said:
“The success of Dance on Yonge 2024 once again proves that Dance on Yonge is not just a dance extravaganza, but a platform for young dance enthusiasts to showcase their talents. It is an opportunity to make high art accessible to the public and a symbol of multiculturalism and community cohesion. The hard work of all the organizers, volunteers, community members, and food and merchandise vendors made this spectacular event possible. We look forward to meeting again next year to create more beautiful memories together.”
Themed Evenings Create Memories
Friday night’s theme featured five couples sharing their romantic stories of meeting and falling in love through dance. On Saturday, sponsor, Star Dance Centre, founder Fiona Su shared her inspiring journey of recovery from knee surgery, returning to the stage with a graceful ballroom dance.
Lasting Impressions and Impact
Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Art Foundation Director and CEO Kelly Langgard: “We are here to celebrate some amazing dancers and the joy and inspiration they bring to our lives. Arts Matter, and events like Dance on Yonge make a significant impact on our community.”
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow: “Thank you for supporting all the small businesses around you. Let’s continue this amazing festival and make it an annual event.”
Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti: “This extraordinary festival brings together people from across the GTA to enjoy art, culture, and cuisine. Congratulations to all involved.”
Councillor Lily Cheng: “Dance on Yonge has transformed our city streets into a vibrant celebration. I hope this event becomes an annual tradition.”
Councillor Shelley Carroll: “I am thrilled to see Dance on Yonge return, showcasing diverse talent and creativity.”
Councillor Joe Li: “Thank you for bringing such a fantastic event to the community, fostering social and multicultural connections.”
Councillor Isa Lee: “This vibrant festival has transformed our city streets with lively dance, music, and world cuisine.”
Councillor Simon Cui: “Thank you to the Canadian Arts and Wellness Alliance for providing an inclusive platform for community members to share dance, music, and food.”
MP Shaun Chen’s Assistant Judy: “This celebration showcases Toronto’s multiculturalism and highlights our strength in diversity.”
The organizers extended special thanks to Diamond Sponsor Star Dance Centre, Platinum Sponsor Yonge North York BIA, Silver Sponsor Smart Choice Team Realtors, and Community Sponsors Fortune Effect Financial Corp and Centre of New Immigrant Well-being for their generous support.
Festival Website: www.danceonyonge.com
Email：cawa.toronto@gmail.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/danceonyonge
Address：4750 Yonge Street, Unit 331 Toronto, ON M2N 0J6
