Press & News

Fear turns to joy as the students smash the balloons, raise their fists and find strength in numbers while the ominous end notes read: “an estimated 3 million American children experience gun violence every year… Gun violence is now the second leading cause of death for American children… Over 2,600 children and teens are shot and killed every year… An average of 47 children and teens are shot every day… Enough!”

“There are dancers as young as seven in the piece. And these kids are amazing, and they really are leaning on dance and movement to empower them toward expression,” said Hurwitz. “And we thought it would be a really great outlet for them to contribute to this conversation.”

"Join Harlem resident Traci Lester, new executive director of Harlem-based National Dance Institute (NDI), with host Danny Tisdale, on The Danny Tisdale Show as they discuss Lester’s journey from a former elementary school teacher to an executive director, balancing her life as a successful executive, a mom and more."

"In the ‘90s, Bill Bartlett saw "He Makes Me Feel Like Dancin’" on THIRTEEN and it changed the course of his life. The Academy Award-winning documentary, which profiles Jacques d'Amboise and his work with children, inspired Bill to create his own unique afterschool program."

"There are 40 dancers taking part in the program this year, and there seem to be almost as many adults in the room — including physical therapy students and dance instructors — working with the kids. Close to half of the children in the program have disabilities..."

"Even when you're an alum, you want to come back, you want to continue working here," student Clara Pallordet said. "It's just such a special opportunity, and it enlightens you so much, you want to continue with it."