92Y Harkness Dance Center

- 1395 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10128

The 92Y Harkness Dance Center, located within the iconic 92nd Street Y, is a cornerstone of the New York City dance community with a rich history spanning nearly a century. Since its founding in 1935 with pioneers like Doris Humphrey and Martha Graham, the center has been a vital hub for both aspiring students and legendary performers. It stands today as a testament to the power of dance to bring people together, providing a diverse array of programs that cater to every age, skill level, and interest. This overview is designed to help New Yorkers explore the offerings of this esteemed institution, which has consistently been at the forefront of dance education, performance, and innovation.

More than just a school, the 92Y Harkness Dance Center is a living piece of New York's cultural history. It has been a stage for some of the most influential artists in modern dance, including Katherine Dunham, Alvin Ailey, and Merce Cunningham. This legacy is carried forward by a faculty of world-class dancers and dedicated educators who continue to inspire a new generation of movers and creators. The center’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that dance is a powerful tool for self-expression and human connection. It provides a supportive environment where students can explore fundamental questions of identity and society through movement, all while gaining confidence and a deeper appreciation for the art form. The studio is a go-to choice for families, offering a range of programs that are especially "good for kids."

Beyond dance, the 92Y Harkness Dance Center is integrated into the larger 92nd Street Y community, which offers a vast number of programs in the visual and performing arts, literature, and education. This connection allows for a unique, interdisciplinary experience that enriches the lives of all who participate. The center also contributes to the professional dance community through its artist-in-residence programs, which provide space for choreographers to explore new ideas, and its Dance Education Laboratory (DEL), which trains and supports dance educators. This combination of community focus and professional excellence makes the Harkness Dance Center an unparalleled resource for anyone in New York with a passion for the arts.

The 92Y Harkness Dance Center is located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan at 1395 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10128, USA. This prime address places it in a highly accessible and convenient location for residents across the city. The studio is situated between 91st and 92nd streets, making it easily reachable by public transportation. The nearby 4, 5, and 6 subway lines at the 86th Street and Lexington Avenue station, as well as several bus routes, provide seamless access for students and visitors coming from all five boroughs.

The central location means that a trip to the 92Y can easily be combined with other activities in the neighborhood, from grabbing a bite to eat to visiting local parks or museums. While public transportation is a great option, the neighborhood is also accessible by car, though parking in this area of Manhattan can be challenging. The studio's integration within the 92nd Street Y's larger campus also means that visitors have access to a variety of amenities and spaces, from the dance studios themselves to larger performance venues like the Kaufmann Concert Hall, where student and professional showcases are held.

The 92Y Harkness Dance Center offers a rich and diverse range of programs to meet the needs of all ages and interests.

• Children’s Classes: A foundational component of the center, these classes are designed to introduce young children to the fundamentals of dance in a creative and joyful way. Offerings range from ballet to hip-hop to tap, with a focus on creativity, inclusivity, and fun.
• Teen and Adult Classes: The studio provides a wide array of classes for teens and adults of all skill levels, from beginners taking their first steps to seasoned dancers. These include classes in various dance techniques, as well as fitness-oriented options.
• Private Lessons: For those seeking personalized instruction, private lessons are available to help students of all ages refine their skills and work on specific techniques or choreography.
• Afterschool Program: The 92Y provides a comprehensive afterschool program for children in grades K-5, which includes enrichment activities in dance, music, theater, and fine arts. This is a convenient option for parents seeking a structured and engaging environment for their children after school hours.
• Summer Programs: The center offers robust summer programs for children and teens, providing an intensive and engaging way to continue their dance education during the break.
• Fine Arts and Theater: Beyond dance, the studio offers art, theater, and musical theater classes, allowing students to explore a variety of artistic disciplines under one roof.
• Community and Performance: The center hosts concerts and performances, showcasing both emerging and established choreographers, and providing students with opportunities to see high-caliber professional work.

Several key features make the 92Y Harkness Dance Center a premier choice for New Yorkers.

• Historic Legacy: The center's long and storied history, with connections to some of the most important figures in modern dance, provides a unique and inspiring backdrop for all students.
• Comprehensive Arts Hub: As part of the 92nd Street Y, the dance center is connected to a wealth of other cultural and educational resources, offering a truly holistic artistic experience.
• Online and In-Person Options: The studio provides online classes, giving students a flexible option to learn from anywhere, in addition to its on-site group and private classes.
• Community-Focused Approach: The center is known for its welcoming environment, as highlighted by a customer who praised the Israeli dancing there as "great." This demonstrates its success in building a strong, engaged community around different dance forms.

For more information or to register for a class, you can contact the 92Y Harkness Dance Center.

Address: 1395 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10128, USA

Phone: (212) 415-5552

In a city known for its vibrant arts scene, the 92Y Harkness Dance Center stands out as an exceptional choice for anyone looking to engage with dance and the performing arts. What is worth choosing about this institution is its unique combination of a storied history, a world-class faculty, and a dedication to community. The center's legacy is woven into the very fabric of American dance, and students have the rare opportunity to train in the same halls where dance history was made.

The Harkness Dance Center's commitment to dance education is unparalleled. It's a place where children are not only taught dance steps but also encouraged to discover the joy of self-expression. As one parent noted, the classes strike a perfect "balance between accessible and serious," ensuring that students are "learning real dance fundamentals" while also gaining confidence. The broad range of offerings, from children's afterschool programs to classes for seasoned adults, means that individuals can grow with the studio throughout their lives. The addition of online options makes this esteemed institution even more accessible, allowing more people to benefit from its expertise. For anyone in New York who wants to learn, create, and be part of a meaningful artistic community, the 92Y Harkness Dance Center is an undeniable and enriching choice.

92Y Harkness Dance Center

1395 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10128, USA