Press & News

On July 28th,  National Dance Institute (NDI) welcomed alumni, families, supporters, and arts education advocates to its Runs & Leaps Extravaganza at the iconic Naumburg Bandshell in Central Park. Over 200 participants enjoyed a festive day of NDI signature repertoire called Runs & Leaps. 

NY1 featured NDI's Runs & Leaps Extravaganza in Central Park with National Dance Institute as hundreds gathered in Central Park to celebrate half a century of dance. Executive Director Jermaine Jones spoke about the legacy of NDI Founder Jacques d'Amboise, the importance of arts education, and the transformative power of dance. Kids of all ages and abilities learned, rehearsed, and danced in commemoration of NDI's Founder Jacques d'Amboise and his belief in the power of dance.

Fox News 5 features National Dance Institute's event, The Runs & Leaps Extravaganza, as over 200 people celebrate NDI's 50th anniversary. Kids of all ages and abilities learned, rehearsed, and performed a fun and easy dance. This event celebrated the institute's founder, Jacques d'Amboise, and his belief in the power of dance.

When I walked into the NYU Skirball Performing Arts Center a few weeks ago, the space felt alive with the sounds of National Dance Institute’s DREAM students laughing during rehearsals. The environment was energizing and exciting—just like that of a typical dance studio a few days before opening night. 

Jermaine Jones was appointed Executive Director of National Dance Institute (NDI) in March 2023. A lifelong advocate for the arts, he brings a unique blend of professional management acumen and a deep-rooted passion for dance to his leadership role. Jones’ relationship with NDI began at age 11 as a student participant in Harlem, later performing with NDI’s Celebration Team and studying at the Alvin Ailey School.

Most dance organizations understand that their dance teachers appreciate and grow from regular professional development opportunities. Good PD inspires, engages, and refreshes a dance teacher’s perspective on their practice. It motivates them to incorporate new learnings and creates a ripple effect that positively impacts their dance students.