2026 Festival
Programming
Overview
MNIDF workshops will be held at the Center for Performing Arts September 28th - October 2nd. The festival includes 3 weeklong workshops, an artist panel conversation, and 3 mainstage performances at the TekBox.
Workshops
Workshops will be led by MNIDF Fellows Daniela Estefania, Lyton Guallpa-Naula, and Jose Rivera. Festival participants will work directly with them through daily classes across a variety of dance styles.
Address: Center for Performing Arts
Center for Performing Arts
3754 Pleasant Avenue #6
Studio 105W
Minneapolis, MN 55409
Parking: There is free, street parking surrounding the building on Pleasant Ave. and 38th streets.
Performances
Minnesota International Dance Festival celebrates Ecuador as the 2026 Guest Country. Friday, October 2nd and Saturday, October 3rd MNIDF presents “Ecuador”, a vibrant performance that brings together many voices to share a rich cultural experience.
October 2nd at 7:30pm
October 3rd at 1:30pm & 7:30pm
$25 General Admission | $15 Students
Saturday matinee, join us after the show for an artist panel with featured choreographers. Celebrate the vast diversity that Cambodia has to offer.
We invite you to join us to enjoy the talented voices of local and international artists with roots in Cambodia.
Featuring Performances by:
Away Runakuna
Ayazamana
Latinx Vibes
Dance Projects by ME
Address: The Southern Theater
1420 S. Washington Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55454
Parking: There are surface lots and street parking available near the theater. Public Parking is located in the Courtyard Marriott Ramp located next to the Southern Theater, 1500 Washington Ave S. A special discount is applied for patrons of the Southern Theater ($5.50 for 4 hours in the ramp*)! Learn more here.
Photo courtesy of Wattanak Dance Troupe
Workshop Schedule | September 28th - October 2nd
Location: Center for Performing Arts
September 28th opening ceremony 9:30 am
Sept. 29th - Oct. 2nd classes at 10:00 am, 11:30 am and 1:00 pm
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS
10:00 - 11:30 am | Afro-Ecuadorian Bomba
with Jose Rivera, Ayazamana
Join Ayazamana founder and cultural pioneer Jose Rivera for a lively, welcoming celebration of Bomba—the soulful dance straight from the Chota Valley in Imbabura, Ecuador.
Jose will guide you step-by-step through the joyful basics of this Afro-Ecuadorian tradition. You’ll learn the playful, confident hip movements of the dance and discover the history behind the famous baile de la botella (bottle dance), where dancers skillfully balance a bottle with perfect poise. This isn’t about rigid technique—it’s about community, pride, and feeling the infectious energy of the banda mocha beats. Come celebrate our heritage, share a lot of laughs, and bring the vibrant spirit of Ecuador to life on the dance floor!
11:30 - 1:00 pm | Ecuadorian Folkloric Dance
with Lyton Guallpa - Naula, Away Runakuna
Join the director of Away Runakuna to experience Ecuadorian heritage within folkloric arts. This working will focus on sharing traditions from all regions of Ecuador: Coast, Andes, Oriental, and Galápagos. This dance experience forms a bridge for the Ecuadorian community to build a stronger connection with their ancestral roots; and welcomes new participants interested in learning about our culture through dance. Each workshop brings a new traditional experience for everyone to learn, celebrate, and preserve the richness in Ecuadorian culture.
1:30 - 3:00 pm | Reggaeton: Confidence & Flow
Daniela Estefania, Latinx Vibes
Get ready to move, sweat, and connect with the rhythm of Reggaeton. This all-levels class focuses on musicality, body movement, confidence, and performance while learning an energetic choreography inspired by Latin urban music. Participants will explore isolations, body waves, floorwork, elegant posture, and the conscious use of eye contact and arm styling while developing confidence and stage presence. This beginner-friendly class combines foundational reggaeton technique, grooves, musicality, and performance in a supportive space where dancers can build confidence, express themselves, learn an empowering choreography. and connection to Latin music and culture.
Level: Open Level / All Level / Beginner-Friendly
What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, water, and a willingness to have fun.