AYDF 2019: Revolutions Per Minute
Directed by Alice Lee Holland
In July 2019, Melbourne came alive with the energy of over 150 youth dancers, leaders and facilitators from around the world. For five incredible days, AYDF 2019 became a meeting place for creativity, connection and bold ideas, where young people danced, thought, made and talked dance together.
With an extraordinary line-up of practitioners from the UK, Singapore, India, Scotland, Finland, Denmark and across Australia, participants immersed themselves in daily contemporary dance, choreography, repertory and improvisation sessions.
Running alongside the youth program, a 2.5-day Think Tank brought together dance leaders, educators, and professional and emerging artists with an interest in youth dance and arts practice. This space encouraged deep discussion, knowledge exchange, and new approaches to supporting young dancers.
The Festival theme—Revolutions per Minute—reflected our rapidly changing world and the vital role young people play in shaping it. As Festival Director Alice Lee Holland asked participants:
The future of the world is in your hands. How does it look right now? How does it need to change? And how can dance be part of that change?
Alice Lee Holland, AYDF 2019 Creative Director
Festival highlights
- Opening Ceremony (7 July) – Kicking off the week with a vibrant celebration of movement and connection.
- Week-long workshops, panels, keynotes and classes – Inspiring and challenging young dancers to explore their artistry.
- Think Tank Program (8–10 July) – For dance leaders and educators passionate about youth dance.
- Revolutions Per Minute Performances (10 & 11 July) – Showcasing Australian and international youth dance companies at Melbourne’s iconic Meat Market.
- International Exchange – Building global friendships and creative collaborations between Australian and visiting companies.
AYDF 2019 is supported by
