Manhattan Ballet Center Hosts Community Outreach Event

Free showcase features student performances, guest speakers, and community engagement.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 12:35am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Manhattan Ballet and Movement Center is hosting a free Community Outreach & Showcase event on April 16 at Park Avenue Christian Church in New York City. The program will bring together artists, students, and community leaders for an evening of dance performances, speaker remarks, and a reception focused on accessibility and engagement.

Why it matters

The event reflects Manhattan Ballet's mission to provide dance education and community outreach, partnering with local organizations to make the arts more accessible to diverse audiences in New York City.

The details

The two-hour event will include dance presentations by students in the center's ballet program, as well as appearances by guest artists and emerging performers. Speakers will include Rev. Kaji Spellman Douša of Park Avenue Christian Church, Rabbi Fridkis of Temple of Universal Judaism, and Manhattan Ballet founder Jennifer Groenke. The evening will also feature a reception and raffle.

  • The event is scheduled for April 16, 2026 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

The players

Manhattan Ballet and Movement Center

A dance education organization that provides instruction to students starting at age three, with a focus on community outreach and partnerships.

Jennifer Groenke

The founder of Manhattan Ballet and Movement Center, who will offer remarks during the event.

Rev. Kaji Spellman Douša

The pastor of Park Avenue Christian Church, where the event will be held.

Rabbi Fridkis

A leader at Temple of Universal Judaism, who will also speak at the event.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're excited to bring together our community for an evening of dance, discussion, and connection.”

— Jennifer Groenke, Founder, Manhattan Ballet and Movement Center

What’s next

The event is free and open to the public, with no registration required.

The takeaway

This community outreach event demonstrates Manhattan Ballet's commitment to making dance education and performance accessible to diverse audiences in New York City, fostering connections between artists, students, and local leaders.