The Vancouver International Dance Festival Society (Business Registration Number: 892858614RR0001) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to presenting the Vancouver International Dance Festival (VIDF), an annual contemporary dance festival held in Vancouver, British Columbia. Founded in 2000 by Barbara Bourget and Jay Hirabayashi, the Society aims to promote inclusivity and accessibility within the dance community, celebrating diverse and experimental forms of dance[1][4].

History

The festival was established by Barbara Bourget and Jay Hirabayashi, both prominent figures in the dance world, particularly known for their work in Butoh and contemporary dance. From its inception, the festival was curated with a commitment to showcasing artists marginalized by race, creed, sexual orientation, disability, and other factors, reflecting the founders' eclectic interests in dance styles. Over the years, VIDF has presented a wide range of dance genres including hip hop, classical ballet, martial arts-inspired modern dance, avant-flamenco, contact improvisation, and classical Indian Bharatanatyam, among others[1][4].

In 2024, leadership of the Festival transitioned to Deanna Peters and Victor Tran, who continue the legacy of inclusivity and grassroots ethos established by the founders[1].

Mission and Programming

The Vancouver International Dance Festival Society prioritizes equity and approachability, striving to make dance accessible to all demographics within Vancouver, including economically disadvantaged populations. The festival is known for its absence of aesthetic boundaries, favoring raw, kinetic, and experimental performances that engage and challenge audiences. The Society’s core goal is to increase public appreciation for contemporary dance by elevating its profile both locally and internationally[1][4].

Organizational Structure

The Society’s leadership has included notable figures such as its founders Barbara Bourget and Jay Hirabayashi, as well as directors and artistic personnel who manage programming, marketing, and technical production. The 2024 leadership includes Co-Directors Deanna Peters and Victor Tran, who oversee festival operations and artistic direction[1].

Impact

VIDF has become a highly anticipated event in Vancouver’s cultural calendar and has contributed significantly to the city’s reputation as an international hub for contemporary dance. It supports a wide community of artists and audiences by promoting diverse dance forms and fostering inclusivity in the performing arts[1][4].

Note: This article is based on publicly available information about the Vancouver International Dance Festival Society and its activities as of 2025.