Ana Rocha Nené - 1st Gala Edition

Photography by Afonso Batista | Edited by Nibiru - Ana Rocha Nené

The Solidarity Gala was created with the aim of raising awareness about the importance of promoting equal access to the arts, encouraging artistic creation, production, and distribution, and increasing the international visibility of Portuguese artists, creators, producers, and other cultural agents.

Curated by Miguel Nunes Esteves, the Solidarity Gala brings together some of the most esteemed names in Portuguese dance for a night of love and talent. All profits from the event were donated to UA – União Audiovisual, a social and cultural association supporting technical professionals and artists in the cultural, performing arts, and event industries.

After two extremely challenging pandemic years for all sectors in Portugal, especially for the cultural industry, Miguel decided to create the Solidarity Gala to showcase the talent and magic of Portuguese dance professionals.

On March 19th, 2022, the first edition of the Solidarity Dance Gala took place at the Salão Preto e Prata in the Estoril Casino.

With an audience of over 900 and hosted by Catarina Furtado, it was a magical evening of dance featuring renowned choreographers such as Ana Isabel Casquilho, Daniel Cardoso, Carlos Pinillos, Catarina Casqueiro, Tiago Coelho, Miguel Esteves, Miguel Santos, and Vasco Wellenkamp.

The night was made even more special with a guest appearance by Marcelino Sambé, Principal Dancer of The Royal Ballet in London.

The first edition of the Gala raised over €11,000, which was donated to União Audiovisual.

The 2022 edition received support from several sponsors, including Estoril Casino, CNB, Opart, and the Union of Parishes of Cascais and Estoril.

Numerous media outlets were also present, ensuring coverage of this important event.