Download the media release

For the second year, VicHealth is getting behind the hugely popular 12-hour dance marathon I Could Have Danced All Night, which returns to White Night Melbourne on Saturday, 21 February.

Ausdance Victoria and their professional dancers will be on hand to guide thousands of Victorians through a range of dance styles from 7pm to 7am.

VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter, a former dancer and choreographer, encouraged people of all ages and abilities to get involved in the event.

"This year, VicHealth is once again throwing its full support behind I Could Have Danced All Night because we believe that by bringing people together to be involved in events like this we can promote people’s physical and mental wellbeing.

“As part of our Active Arts Strategy to get more Victorians moving we want to provide as many opportunities as possible to get people active. As well as helping to get your heart pumping and meet your 30 minutes of daily physical activity, dance gives people the opportunity to express themselves, meet new people, be inspired, have fun and feel good about themselves,” Ms Rechter added.

For the past few months, 12 community groups from across Melbourne have been deep in rehearsals each learning a different dance that they will perform on stage at White Night.

“They include a group of senior citizens, people with disabilities, a group of newly-arrived migrants and refugees and a group of international students. To say we’re excited about seeing these groups on stage leading thousands of Victorians in dance is an understatement!” Ms Rechter said.

Leading Australian choreographer Gideon Obarzanek said “The ability of the arts to bring people together is very powerful and a very real strength”, while Adam Wheeler, dancer and choreographer, said “The arts allow people to grow in confidence, grow in achievement, and grow a voice”.

I Could Have Danced All Night will take place on Lonsdale Street, Melbourne from 7pm to 7am.

White Night Melbourne, a 12-hour celebration of art, music, film and dance, is free of charge and runs from 7pm to 7am on Saturday, February 21. See www.whitenightmelbourne.com.au for further information.  

Media Contact: Helen Walsh, Senior Media Advisor, 03 9667 1319 or 0435 761 732 or email [email protected].