Dance is a universal language that knows no boundaries. As a means for expressing feelings and telling stories, dance is a part of human and cultural history. In the belief that it is society’s duty to foster artistic talent, the German Ministry for Education and Research is a supporter of the Dance Education Biennale, whose 5^th iteration will take place from 15 to 22 February 2016 in Cologne.

Active engagement with culture offers an important contribution for personal development. It can foster many – disadvantaged children and youth in particular. This is the starting point for the Ministry’s Kultur macht stark (Culture makes you strong) programme. By studying a musical piece or learning a new choreography, the young learn to persist despite their mistakes; they learn that working together with others carries them further than working alone; they learn that concentration and effort pays off when working toward a goal. Cultural projects inculcate attitudes and qualities that lie at the core of education itself: willingness to work, tolerance for frustration, self-confidence, perseverance, and awareness of legitimate viewpoints other than one’s own. At the same time, cultural projects are opportunities for experiencing immediate success: rarely do children and youths get feedback as quickly as on the stage.

“Feedback und Reflexion” is the theme of the 5^th Dance Education Biennale. The goal is to spread knowledge and advance dance and dance education. I want to thank everyone involved for their engagement. And I wish the participants lively exchanges, interesting encounters and much stimulation and inspiration while in Cologne.

Prof. Dr. Johanna Wanka

Minister for Education and Research