The Guam International Dance Festival (GIDF) wrapped up its dynamic three-day event this past weekend, culminating in a celebration of global and local dance culture that energized the island community and international participants alike.
A total of 21 teams (291 dancers) from around the world took the stage, vying for recognition across a diverse range of categories. In the main competitive divisions, first place winners in each category took home $5,000 in cash courtesy of event sponsor Bank of Guam, while special awards were given in multiple categories to recognize outstanding achievement:
CULTURAL DIVISION WINNERS:
1st Place – Natibu Dance Academy – Polynesia (Guam)
2nd Place – Mahiga Dance Academy (Guam)
3rd Place – Natibu Dance Academy – CHamoru (Guam)
Best Cultural Representation – Mahiga Dance Academy (Guam)
Best Cultural Costume – Natibu Dance Academy – CHamoru (Guam)
Most Creative Cultural Concept – Natibu Dance Academy – Polynesia (Guam)
CONTEMPORARY DIVISION WINNERS:
1st Place – Amata (Japan)
2nd Place – Studio B Company – Latch (Guam)
3rd Place – Studio B Company – Halo (Guam)
Best Contemporary Concept – Studio B Dance Company – Latch (Guam)
Best Contemporary Costume – Amata (Japan)
Most Creative Contemporary Concept – Studio B Dance Company -Halo (Guam)
PEOPLE’S CHOICE:
Day 1 (Saturday, Dec. 6) – SBCS Spartans Dance Crew (Guam)
Day 2 (Sunday, Dec. 7) – Studio B Dance Company – Halo (Guam)
A WEEKEND OF RHYTHM AND ARTISTRY
The GIDF kicked off on Friday, December 5th, with a high-energy series of workshops at the Sinajana Fine Arts Center and Micronesia Mall. Led by respected Masters of Dance Saina Frank Rabon, Brian Esperon, NPher Dance Group, Ahtoy Juliana and Edwin Tolentino, these free sessions offered dancers the opportunity to hone their skills and learn from industry leaders.
The competition phase began on Saturday, December 6th, at the spectacular Sandcastle Guam, where competitors delivered powerful opening performances. The momentum carried through to Sunday, December 7th, for the final day of competition held at the vibrant Tumon Night Market.
SPECIAL PERFORMANCES AND AUDIENCE ENGAGEMENT
The entire festival, held from Friday, December 5th, through Sunday, December 7th, showcased incredible talent and an unforgettable experience for attendees.
In addition to the dance competition, special guest performances elevated the festival. Audiences were captivated by the dynamic saxophone performances of Shinji Takeda, the powerful moves of NPher, and the inspiring CHamoru dance documentary “Something to Call Our Own” presented by PBS Guam and Project: Inspire. On the final night, the audience was treated to the musical excellence of the United States Air Force Pacific Band, and the globally inspired surprise set from DJ Celly from Japan, who, along with the Japan performers, kept the audience dancing and the energy soaring.
“Today, we celebrate a milestone born from our community. The inaugural Guam International Dance Festival was a resounding success because it reflected our CHamoru values — inafa’maolek, geftao, respetu —and the Håfa Adai spirit that defines Guam,” said GVB President and CEO Régine Biscoe Lee. “Our local artists, volunteers, gumas, and families opened their hearts, turning art into connection for visitors and residents alike. This festival showcased Guam’s culture: inclusive, vibrant, and rooted in mutual respect.”
LOOKING AHEAD TO 2026
The success of this year’s event has set a high bar for the future. The Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB) recognized its supporters United Airlines and PHR Ken Micronesia, and its sponsors Bank of Guam, Micronesia Mall, Baldyga Group, Sinajaña Mayor’s Office, and Hanom Water for the success of the event. GVB also announced that the 2026 Guam International Dance Festival will take place December 4-6, 2026, extending an enthusiastic invitation to all participants to return. GVB affirmed its goal to make the GIDF “bigger, better, and the most memorable event in the region,” solidifying Guam’s position as a premier dance destination.
Governor Lou Leon Guerrero said, “This festival reminded us why Guam is so wanted by people from every corner of the world. It is more than our beaches or our sunsets. It is the warmth of our people, the stories we share through movement, and the way we invite others to feel like part of our island family. Watching dancers from near and far connect through rhythm and culture showed the very best of who we are. I am grateful for everyone who helped bring this festival to life and excited for how it will continue to grow.”
“On behalf of the GVB Team, we share our deepest gratitude to every dancer, musician, guma, choreographer, sponsor, and partner who made this possible,” added President Biscoe Lee. “We are excited to grow this festival in the years ahead, welcoming more visitors while celebrating Guam’s enduring culture and community.”
The Guam International Dance Festival (GIDF) is Guam’s newest signature event dedicated to celebrating dance in all its forms, bringing together local, regional, and international artists for a weekend of competition, education, and cultural exchange.
