The International Festival Jazz Dance Open (Founded 2004)

The East Bohemian Theatre in Pardubice

Year 2004

...Why...

There are several reasons. I Love Jazz! 50 years! I studied with our greatest Master, Mr. Frank Towen, and became his assistant. As a native of Pardubice, I had an almost twenty year long break - I had performed in The foremost Theatres in Czech Republic and abroad.

Now, I would like to dedicate my rich experience from home and overseas to my hometown - to contribute, with this Festival, to another of its important accomplishments. I also think that as our Country is entering The European Union, we should be doing it also in the field of Dance.

These answers and reasons may seem to be simplistic, almost telegraphic… at The End, it is the results that count - The Words alone are not enough… and thus, we are finding ourselves at the very beginning and The European Festival Jazz Dance 2004 is a baby just born. As it “grows”, it should be able to speak for itself.

From the bottom of my heart and with deep respect, I thank all cooperators.

Year 2005
...WHY A CHANGE IN THE TITLE?

Everything is influenced by progress... Already the performances at the first Festival competition exceeded European parameters. The winners an excellent Dance Company Jazz Ballet Valery, is from The Russian Federation. As a result, I came to conclusion to change The Festival title to The International Festival Jazz Dance Open. It is open to all dancers, choreographers, dance teachers (Workshops - Classes for all interested persons) as well as to other diverse art forms.

Years from 2009 to 2010

Festival production takes place at one more stage, the stage of The City Theatre of Žďár nad Sázavou (Moravia).

Years from 2021

Festival production takes place at one more stage, the stage of The Karel Pippich Theatre Chrudim.

Helena Machová
Founder and Director of Festival
(Founded 2004)