Celebrating 20 Years of Dance at DANCE NATION in Japan

DANCE NATION 20th ANNIVERSARY Overview

The grand celebration marking 20 years of Japan's iconic dance event, DANCE NATION, is set to take place on March 15, 2026. Organized by avex, the event will occur at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, featuring a dazzling stage for participants from the avex Dance Master school.

A Legacy of Dance

The avex Dance Master is one of Japan's largest dance schools, boasting over 50,000 students across approximately 200 locations nationwide. Since its establishment, it has been a breeding ground for talents in the entertainment industry, producing professional dancers and choreographers. This annual event has become a significant platform for students to showcase their skills on a grand stage.

DANCE NATION has evolved since its inception in 2006, growing steadily in participation, with more than 130 teams and around 3,000 children expected to perform this year. The event not only presents a vibrant showcase of attractive dance performances but also provides participants with opportunities to learn and adapt elements from avex's renowned live production expertise. This monumental performance opportunity motivates students, further enhancing their dance skills and artistry.

Special Guests and Performances

This year’s anniversary celebration includes notable guest appearances from acclaimed groups such as PG and ONE OR EIGHT. The audience can anticipate thrilling performances from talented dancers from avex Dance Master, who will share the stage with emerging stars.

Meet PG

The guest group PG, consisting of 14 vocalists and dancers aged 11 to 15, has garnered immense popularity, achieving over 670,000 followers on social media within just three months of their debut. Their catchy summer party tune, "BANABANA," was a massive hit, and they are currently promoting their latest single, "MIDNIGHT FEVER." PG stands out as a rising star for the Alpha and Z generations, offering a unique combination of vibrant performances and catchy music.

Insightful Messages

In line with the spirit of encouragement, graduate NiiNA from PG shared heartfelt words with participants, emphasizing the joy of learning and the invaluable experiences gained through avex Dance Master. She expressed her gratitude for the supportive instructors and the camaraderie built among peers, highlighting the opportunity to perform on a grand stage like DANCE NATION as a rare and exciting experience.

ONE OR EIGHT's Dynamic Performance

Another exciting addition is ONE OR EIGHT, an 8-member boys' group whose name is inspired by the Japanese saying "一か八か (One or Eight)." They embody the spirit of taking risks and pursuing dreams together with their tagline, "BET ON YOURSELF." With notable achievements already under their belt, including chart-topping hits and a groundbreaking debut in 2024, they promise to deliver an enchanting performance that embodies the essence of youth and creativity.

The Future of avex Dance Master

Beyond the 20th anniversary, avex Dance Master emphasizes nurturing creativity through dance for children and young students. The program's philosophy encourages an appreciation for diverse perspectives and the importance of social etiquette. Students develop not just their dance skills but also learn essential life lessons about teamwork and respect for one another.

With testimonials highlighting the transformative experiences gained through classes, avex Dance Master continues to cultivate an environment where dreams come true, empowering the next generation of talent. As DANCE NATION enters a new era, it reaffirms its commitment to supporting children's aspirations and growth in the world of dance.