KRAVIS CENTER CELEBRATES NATIONAL DANCE DAY SEPTEMBER 19
August 19, 2026 | Press ReleaseFree, daylong event promotes healthy fun for all ages and abilities
(WEST PALM BEACH, FL) – The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts invites everyone to don their favorite dance shoes and make time to move during National Dance Day on September 19, from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Serving once again as the official National Dance Day host, and emceed by CBS12 anchor Sam Kerrigan, the Kravis Center has a full lineup of free workshops and classes, including hip hop, ballroom a la “Dirty Dancing”, jazz funk and more expert-led activities for everyone!
“We are honored to once again welcome everyone as the official host of National Dance Day,” said Tracy C. Butler, Senior Director of Education. “Dancers and movers of all ages and abilities are invited to join us in the Kravis Center’s Cohen Pavilion for an entire day of free events, led by our dance professionals. Dancing not only promotes better physical and mental health but is also a way to connect us as a community. National Dance Day is a perfect opportunity to try something new, or to rediscover the joy dancing brings to your life.”
National Dance Day, officially recognized by Congress, is dedicated to supporting and sharing the joys and benefits of dance and movement. National Dance Day is presented in collaboration with American Dance Movement (ADM). ADM believes that participation in dance connects the mind and body, promotes health and wellbeing, connects us with others and enables us to find joy through dance and movement. Participants are encouraged to register for free in advance for the National Dance Day workshops online at www.kravis.org.
National Dance Day at the Kravis Center schedule line-up:
11 a.m. – Doors Open/Community Marketplace – Weiner Banquet Center and Harris Pre-Function Hall
Discover dance programs offered throughout our area.
11:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Group Activity: Welcome / Group Warm Up – Gimelstob Ballroom
Led by Lori Ramirez
11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. – Kids Zone – Gimelstob Ballroom
Led by Yamilett Abejon
12:15 – 1 p.m. – Workshop: Hip-Hop – Gimelstob Ballroom
Led by Larry Albright
The workshop will consist of a hip-hop party vibe. Learn the hottest new party dances and timeless classics to make your next event an unforgettable celebration. Bring your sneakers and be ready to get down!
12:15 – 1 p.m. – Class: Theatre Dance – Dance Studio
Led by Ashley Bachner
This workshop will focus on musical theater choreography with an emphasis on style!
12:15 – 1 p.m. – Class: All Together Dance – Dance Studio
Led by Kori Epps
Let’s move! In this class, all levels and all ages are celebrated. No technique necessary. Music and group instructions will inspire connections between body and soul, creativity and community.
1:15 – 2 p.m. Workshop: Ballroom Dance – Musicality in Latin American Dancing: Incorporating the music and spirit of Dirty Dancing – Gimelstob Ballroom
Led by Manuel Favilla and Natalia Maidiuk
Participants will explore how music inspires movement through rhythm, timing and character in Latin American dancing. Using iconic music from Dirty Dancing, participants will discover how to listen to the music, express its energy through the body and bring movement to life with greater confidence, connection and We’ll keep the instruction accessible and engaging for participants of all ages and experience levels, with a focus on making the experience fun, approachable and true to the spirit of the film.
1:15 – 3 p.m. – Class: Open Level Ballet – Khoury Family Dance Rehearsal Hall
Led by Jean-Hugues Feray
Experience the beauty and joy of classical ballet in this fun and welcoming open class! Designed for ages 8 and up, participants will explore the fundamentals of ballet technique while developing coordination, musicality, strength and artistry in an encouraging and supportive environment.
1:15 – 2 p.m. – Class: African Dance – Dance Studio
Led by Shanna Woods
Experience the joy, energy and cultural richness of African dance in a welcoming and empowering environment. This class explores traditional and contemporary movement rooted in the diverse dance traditions of the African diaspora while building strength, coordination, rhythm, musicality, and confidence. Participants will connect movement with storytelling, community, and self-expression through dynamic choreography, live or recorded percussion, and guided cultural context. Whether you are new to African dance or have years of experience, this class celebrates every body and every ability level. Come ready to move, sweat, learn and leave feeling energized, grounded and connected.
2:15 – 3 p.m. – Workshop: Country Fusion Line Dance – Gimelstob Ballroom
Led by Kristi Moynihan
Kristi will be teaching a few of the popular beginner line dances that are enjoyed at Renegades nightly. Guests of all ages can participate, no boots required!
2:15 – 3 p.m. – Class: Jazz Funk – Khoury Family Dance Rehearsal Hall
Led by Herman Payne
Come experience this power-packed, master class workshop and dance to dynamic new music found in today’s pop, dubstep and R&B sounds incorporating movements from various dance genres for a funky style that is both fun and expressive. From ballet, modern, hip-hop to lyrical, jazz funk is a highly expressive and energetic dance style that blends the technical foundations of jazz with the dynamic, groovy movements of hip-hop and funk. Class begins with a series of warm-ups that will strengthen your core, develop flexibility and prepare you for later class combinations. Across-the-floor dance steps and a special combination in the center will give you an opportunity to flash those jazz hands!
2:15 – 3 p.m. – Class: Contemporary Dance – Khoury Family Dance Rehearsal Hall
Led by Shizu Yasuda
Shizu’s contemporary dance class employs a variety of movement approaches, incorporating the movement principles of the Limon Dance Technique and dynamic contractions inspired by the Graham Dance Technique, and other movement approaches developed by Ms. Shizu. The class explores a wide range of movement qualities, from slow, fluid and expressive to fast, athletic and powerful, while emphasizing natural body mechanics and authentic physical expression. Students will develop strength, coordination and artistry through a dynamic and engaging movement practice.
3:15 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. – National Dance Day Official Routine – Gimelstob Ballroom
Learn the official National Dance Day routine led by a guest celebrity dancer.
Visit kravis.org/national-dance-day for event full details
# # #
About the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts:
The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is a nonprofit organization and one of South Florida’s premier cultural destinations, located in downtown West Palm Beach. Since 1992, the Kravis Center has presented the finest in live entertainment, showcasing internationally acclaimed artists in music, comedy, dance, Broadway, and more. As part of its nonprofit mission, the Kravis Center has welcomed millions of students to its comprehensive arts education programs. Students of all ages can participate in workshops, classes, and special events, as well as access free and reduced-price tickets for those who might not otherwise have the opportunity to experience live performances.
Media Contacts:
Director of Public Relations Public Relations and Social Media Coordinator
Charlotte Vermaak Adriana Bøckman-Pedersen
561.651.4242 561.651.4345
[email protected] [email protected]
Education PR
Elizabeth Dashiell
561.543.8276
[email protected]
