Dance and music play a vital role in the religious, cultural and social life of the hill people. The stage performances of the dance and music created an opportunity for the city dwellers to enjoy and learn about the cultural diversity and richness of the indigenous communities. Artistes from Marma, Mru, Bawm, Khyang and Tanchangya communities presented their traditional dances at the programme.

The event showcased the varied styles of traditional dances within the multicultural space of Bandarban. The programme began with a "candle dance", a ritualistic tradition of the Marmas seeking blessings. Tanchangya dancers performed Jum dance centring the agricultural practices in the community. Bawm dancers performed Shiakidong (horn) dance. This is a ritualistic dance performed all through the night to drive away the evil spirits.

Marma dancers performed a "fan dance". It is performed during Sangrai, the Marma New Year. On the occasion, young men and women participate in a daylong water-game. The artistes also performed the dance that is a part of this water festival.

Tanchangya dancers depicted different activities of their social life in the Jibondhara dance. Chhiachhat Ply or "cow killing dance" was performed by Mru dancers. In Marma communities "plate dance" has become very popular as part of their wedding traditions. Dancers balancing plates on thumbs mesmerised the audience. Popular Tripuri "bottle dance" was performed placing bottles on the head. The show ended with Rogha Lang (bamboo dance) by Bawm dancers. "Bamboo dance" is performed in honour of the deceased.

The dance performances were mingled with rendition of songs. Popular Marma song of "full moon festival", a religious Bawm song, a patriotic Khyang song by indigenous artistes as well as Bangla songs performed by Saw Thue Prue delighted the audience.

Alliance Francaise de Dacca, Bandarban Hill District Council and Bardarban Tribal Cultural Centre jointly organised the programme and UNESCO supported it. The event was a part of a series of cultural programmes spanning over two months titled "Culture of the Bandarban Hill People."