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 8–18) from underserved communities.
A structured training company where 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 lack access 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 MoreSchool Partnerships
K–12 students and educators in partner schools.
Residencies, assemblies, and after-school programs that bring culturally responsive dance education into schools. Students learn technique and cultural history aligned to their developmental level, while educators gain tools to integrate the arts. The program exists because most schools lack culturally representative arts programming — creating more inclusive classrooms, higher student engagement, and arts access for those who need it most.
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 Performances
Student and company dancers, shared with public audiences.
Public performances that showcase student and company work at community events, festivals, and cultural celebrations. Participants develop stage presence, artistic voice, and the experience of sharing heritage publicly. The program exists to give dancers real performance opportunities and to make Afro-Diasporic culture visible in public life — building cultural pride, representation, and shared celebration.
InquireMentorship
Youth paired with experienced artists and educators.
One-on-one and small-group mentorship where young dancers receive guidance on technique, goal-setting, auditions, and career pathways in the arts and beyond. The program exists because talent without guidance often goes unrealized. Its impact is confident, supported young people with clearer plans for their future and stronger ties to mentors who look like them and believe in them.
InquirePrivate Instruction
Individual dancers at any level seeking personalized training.
Individualized dance training tailored to a student’s goals, pace, and experience. Participants refine technique, prepare for auditions or performances, and receive focused feedback. The program exists to serve dancers who need personalized attention — whether beginners building confidence or advanced students refining their craft — ensuring equitable access to high-quality, individualized arts education.
InquireSpecial Events
Couples, families, and organizations celebrating milestones.
Custom dance experiences for weddings, celebrations, and organizational gatherings, including choreography and cultural performances. Participants and audiences experience Afro-Diasporic tradition in meaningful, memorable settings. The program exists to share culture through life’s milestones while supporting Lakayro’s mission — creating cultural presence in community celebrations and sustaining funding for free and low-cost youth programming.
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