Dance Programs
Culturally rooted dance education and performance opportunities for youth, adults, schools, and communities across Northern New Jersey.
Youth Dance Company
Young dancers ages 8–17 years old who face barriers to accessing quality arts education.
The training and development arm for young dancers. Participants build technical foundations in Haitian and Afro-Diasporic dance, study the cultural history behind each form, and develop discipline, leadership, and performance skills. The program exists to give talented youth who face barriers to quality training a clear pathway from first class to stage — cultivating a new generation of culturally grounded, confident young artists and leaders.
Learn MoreAdult Dance Classes
Adults of all backgrounds and experience levels.
Beginner-friendly cultural dance classes where participants learn foundational technique, rhythm, and cultural context while improving physical wellness and connecting with others. The program exists because affordable, welcoming dance education is rare for adults — especially those seeking culturally relevant movement. The result is stronger social bonds, improved well-being, and a multigenerational community rooted in shared heritage.
Learn MoreCultural Workshops
Festivals, libraries, community centers, and nonprofits.
Single-session and short-series workshops exploring specific Haitian and Afro-Diasporic dance traditions, their history, and their meaning. Participants gain cultural literacy, movement experience, and a deeper connection to diasporic heritage. The program exists to make cultural education accessible beyond the studio — broadening cultural awareness and fostering intergroup connection across the region.
Learn MoreCommunity Programs
Schools, libraries, community centers, and partner organizations.
Culturally responsive dance education brought directly into schools, libraries, community centers, and partner organizations. Through residencies, assemblies, after-school programs, and community-based engagements, Lakayro extends arts education beyond the studio — reaching students and families who might not otherwise encounter Haitian and Afro-Diasporic traditions.
InquirePrivate Instruction
Individual dancers at any level seeking personalized training.
One-on-one and small-group dance instruction tailored to individual goals in technique, choreography, or artistic development. Private instruction is offered as part of Lakayro’s broader educational and cultural mission rather than as a commercial service. Availability and format vary.
InquirePerformances
Student and company dancers, shared with public audiences.
Public performances by student and company dancers at community events, festivals, and cultural celebrations. Performers develop stage presence, artistic voice, and the experience of sharing heritage publicly — while making Afro-Diasporic culture visible and celebrated in community life.
InquireLearn the Culture
Deepen your understanding of the traditions we teach. These short guides explore the history, meaning, and cultural context behind Haitian and Afro-Diasporic dance.
How We Teach
Every Lakayro program is built on a student-centered, guided-discovery approach. Learn about the philosophy behind our teaching.
Our Teaching Philosophy