The 2025 Victorian Dance Festival (VDF25), sponsored by international entertainment giant RWS Global, took place from 23 – 25 May, at the Melbourne Showgrounds, drawing thousands of eager dancers, dance teachers and studio owners from across Australia and abroad.
As Australia’s largest dance festival, VDF25 offered a vibrant celebration of dance in all its forms. Six thousand attendees were inspired to move and be moved with an uplifting dance conference, a thrilling professional auditions program, a spectacular performance evening and a bustling dance market.
Festival highlights included:
Dance Workshops and Masterclasses
Over two days, VDF25 featured more than 70 workshops catering to all ages and skill levels — from Mini Movers (aged 3–6) to professionals. Participants had the opportunity to learn from renowned choreographers and educators, including US dancer/choreographer Meghan Sanett, who brought her dynamic theatre jazz expertise to the festival from her home in LA.
Studio 7 IGNITE
Excitement peaked on Saturday 24 May, when the Studio 7 IGNITE showcase illuminated the stage with performances from dance companies, studios and troupes from all across Australia. This non-competitive platform celebrated the diversity and creativity of the Australian and international dance talent who flock to enjoy the festival weekend with their groups.
Vitality Dance Teacher Conference
Held on Friday, May 23, Vitality Dance Teacher Conference provided professional development and networking opportunities for dance educators and studio owners. The conference featured separate streams for business owners and educators, along with practical workshops and a dance expo showcasing leading brands, services and resources for dance teachers and business owners.
Auditions and Career Opportunities
With the largest dance careers program of its kind ever to be held in Australia, VDF25 offered extensive masterclasses and auditions for professional contracts with leading global entertainment companies. From title sponsor RWS Global; through to long-term partners Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Shows & Experiences and Joffrey Ballet School, New York; to newcomers Disney Live Entertainment, talented hopefuls were able to audition for opportunities on board cruise ships, with corporate and sporting events, theme parks, and international dance training institutions. With just over 1,000 Australian artists and technicians hoping to make their mark, over 100 professional contracts were awarded across the VDF weekend!
Dance Market and Expo
VDF hosted Australia’s largest dance market, featuring dancewear, footwear, costumes, accessories and more. Attendees had the chance to shop from top brands and newcomers to the market, as well as enjoy access to allied services, membership organisations, a DJ and food trucks, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the weekend.
Community and Culture
VDF25 prides itself on being more than just a festival; consistently delivering a positive and uplifting experience, it was a true celebration of the dance community. The event fostered connections among dancers, educators, employers and enthusiasts, highlighting the passion, dedication, and not to mention talent, within the Australian dance scene.
We look forward to VDF 2026! Date to be announced very soon…
For more information, visit www.VDF.com.au.
VDF 2025 photos are now available to view and purchase. Just visit Studio One Visuals VDF 2025.
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