DanceVersity Outreach

DanceVersity is in the business of using cross-cultural arts education to uplift and unite communities.  Our vision seeks to align our programming with this underlying endeavor, while continuing to promote the emotional, physical, cognitive, and social benefits of dance.

Specifically, as part of our 2020 outreach goals, we seek to partner with individuals and  organizations who work with youth that are or have been challenged socially or economically and who have experienced stress or trauma.

If you would like to learn more about our special outreach projects, be a part of this journey, or know of individuals or organizations who might be interested, please Contact Us!

Oakland International High School Introduces Dance!

Oakland International High School (OIHS) provides quality alternative education to recently arrived immigrant students in English language acquisition and preparation for college. It is home to youth representing 30+ languages and cultures.

In May 2018, DanceVersity was thrilled to partner with Oakland International High School and dance professionals to introduce an immersive dance offering for 9th and 10th grader students.

With support from the Oakland|Berkeley Association of REALTORS® Community Foundation, DanceVersity will continue an afterschool dance program at OIHS starting in January 2019.

The goals of this program are to make dance accessible to this unique
community of youth, to enhance communication and language development skills of students learning English as a Second Language, offer an alternative form of physical fitness, and promote positive self-expression through the movement arts.

Rhythmix Cultural Works – Creative Collaboration

This October, DanceVersity partners with Rhythmix Cultural Works on two creative programs designed to showcase the dances of Iran and Central Asia with the Alameda community.

On Sunday, October 7th Rhythmix Cultural Works presents its annual family-friendly ‘Round the World Festival featuring performances DanceVersity faculty, Samia Karimi and Natalie Nayun performing dances of Iran and Central Asia. Other beloved Bay Area artists include Duniya Dance and Drum Company, Ka-Hon Latin Percussion Ensemble and Chhandam School of Kathak, and more. ‘Round the World spotlights artists of diverse heritages and global musical styles along with hands-on art activities for the whole family, encouraging greater participation and inclusion in the arts. This is a free, family-friendly public program. Mark your calendars and join us!

On Thursday, October 25th, DanceVersity is participating in the Rhythmix’ Performance Art & Learning Program (PAL) program, an assembly-based youth arts education program in collaboration with the Alameda Unified School District. The focus of this program will be the dances and music of Afghanistan. Visit the Rhythmix website to learn more about PAL and other community events offered in Alameda.