Runs & Leaps Extravaganza

JULY 28 | CENTRAL PARK

The event is still on, rain or shine!

RUNS & LEAPS EXTRAVAGANZA

Tuesday, July 28, 2026

9 AM Check-in

11 AM Performance
Naumburg Bandshell, Central Park (Rain or shine)

Come to Dance. Come to Watch. All are welcome!

Join us in celebration of NDI's 50th Anniversary in Central Park on Tuesday, July 28 for a joyful, community-wide event on the birthday of NDI Founder Jacques d'Amboise with dancing and live music. We want to show the world that arts are essential and that early experiences in the arts stay with us forever. Bring your family and friends!

EVENT DETAILS

Under the artistic direction of Kay Gayner and Christopher d'Amboise, NDI Teaching Artists will guide participants through an excerpt from beloved NDI repertoire, "Runs and Leaps," accompanied by NDI's live band under Music Director Yakir Ben Hur. Experience the joy and exuberance of movement, embodying the positive effects of arts education.

CHOREOGRAPHY:
Get Ready to Dance with Us! There are three ways for participants to perform a short (1.5-minute) excerpt of the NDI classic When the Saints Come Marchin' In, choreography by Ellen Weinstein. There's a version for everyone - from the seasoned performer to the first-time dancer. NDI Teaching artists will lead you in a rehearsal at the event, though if you want to get ahead, choose a version below that fits you best!

Celebration Team: Original choreography (start video at 4:43), great for alums and experienced dancers. Watch Video>>

Simplified Choreography: Modified choreography, great for participants with minimal or no dance training. Watch Video>>

Seated Choreography: Modified choreography to be performed seated, great for participants for whom standing is not available, or for participants who don't wish to "run & leap" but would like to join in from seated from their position as a viewer. Watch Video>>

Get Inspired!
See the Celebration Team in a joyful performance of Ellen Weinstein's When the Saints Come Marchin' In! Watch Video>>

WHAT TO BRING:
Please bring only what you can carry in your pockets, as there will be no facilities to check personal items. NDI is not responsible for lost or stolen items, especially those left unattended. Bring a raincoat or poncho!

WHAT TO WEAR:
Dress for the weather and wear sneakers or other secure athletic footwear. No sandals. Upon arrival, you will receive a colored vest to wear over your clothes.

QUESTIONS?
Please see our Frequently Asked Questions on our website: FAQ

Have questions?

We have answers! Read through our Runs & Leaps FAQ.

Runs & Leaps FAQ

Runs & Leaps Choreography Videos

Are you ready to RUN & LEAP? Check out the videos below to learn the steps of one of the dances we will all be doing that day!