Festival of Nations highlights global dance styles

For this year’s Festival of Nations, Dollywood’s annual celebration of world culture, the park’s stages will echo with the staccato beat of feet tapping out global rhythms.

Following on the heels of recordsetting attendance during last year’s Festival of Nations, which focused on Irish culture, Dollywood is hosting 250 performers during a sevenweek spring celebration of international dance styles.

From Latin American salsa to Filipino tinikling, the performances will provide a window into culture, said Pete Owens, the park’s media and public relations manager.

“In the past, we’ve talked about music as an international language, but the idea this year was to focus in on another international language: dance,” he said.

“The families that come to visit us are going to walk away with an appreciation of the different types of dance around the world and also the similarities between wide-ranging regions, whether it’s between Russia and Latin America or between Ireland and Eastern Europe.”

The National Dance Company of Ireland’s Rhythm of the Dance show is returning to headline the festival after their widely acclaimed residency last year. The show formed in 1999 and has performed for more than 3 million people in 33 countries, according to the group’s Web site. Last year, Dolly Parton took part in some shows at the park’s Celebrity Theatre, which accommodated 100,000 patrons during a five-week span.

Also headlining is the Russian National Theatre, a 31-member troupe that performs mock combat routines mixed with traditional Cossack dances. The theme park also will host a number of artisans and bands returning from the Celebrate Ireland festival last year. The focus is more comprehensive this year, Mr. Owens said.

“Really, what we’re looking for is a good mix of countries and a good mix of different types of shows,” he said. “Because of Dolly and because of Dollywood’s reputation, we’re always looking for world-class talent.”

IF YOU GO

What: Dollywood Festival of Nations — World of Dance

When: Beginning Friday through May 5 (closed Tuesdays)

Where: Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

Admission: $50.20 (ages 12-59); $39 (ages 4-11); $46.85 (ages 60+)

Phone: (800) 365-5996

Web site: www.dollywood.com