International Dance League (IDL) is more than a festival. It's a global movement dedicated to the art and culture of hip-hop dance.
The International Dance League promotes and professionalises street, club and hip-hop dance styles ("the culture") as fully recognised art forms, with inclusivity and artistic development at its core. We strengthen the quality, visibility and cultural value of the culture while making it accessible to a broad and diverse audience.
We envision a world where the culture is universally recognised, celebrated and fairly valued. A world where street, club and hip-hop dance are embraced as art forms that fill theatres, inspire audiences and bring together people from different cultures, generations and communities.
International Dance League started with a simple question: What if street and club dance were given the same artistic recognition as any other performing art?
For founder Leal van Herwaarden, dance has always been more than movement. Growing up within hip-hop culture, he experienced how dance builds confidence, creates opportunities and brings people together. He also saw talented dancers struggle to receive the recognition and professional platform they deserved.
That became the foundation of International Dance League. More than a competition, IDL is a movement that brings the raw energy of street and club culture to the theatre while staying true to its roots.
Today, International Dance League connects dancers, audiences and communities from around the world. Every battle, performance and workshop strengthens the culture, creates opportunities for the next generation and proves that dance has the power to unite people across borders.
"We're not just building events. We're building a stronger future for the culture."
DANCERS SUPPORTED
COUNTRIES REACHED
AWARDS WON
Founder & Director
Production Manager
Program Manager
Financial Controller
Marketing & Communications
Executive Assistant
Intern
Intern
Rooted in Hip Hop culture and the communities that shape it.
Creating space for individuality, creativity and different movement languages.
Bringing dancers, makers and audiences together across styles, generations and borders.
Creating opportunities for dancers and makers to develop, connect and take the next step.