Workshops/Trainings
Our relevant and impactful workshops help support the diverse dance communities of New Jersey.
NEW EVENT! DNJ Spring Spotlight Series
Beyond the Steps: Afro-Latin Jazz & the Power of Storytelling with Maria Torres
Date: Thursday, April 16, 2026 | 9:30am - 2:30pm
Venue: Nimbus Arts Center (Jersey City, NJ)
This workshop explores how rhythm, character, and cultural identity become powerful teaching tools beyond technique. Participants will gain adaptable, classroom-ready strategies for leading story-driven choreography through gesture, improvisation, and musicality rooted in Afro-Latin tradition, empowering students to honor heritage, deepen connection, and amplify their creative voice. View full agenda.
Professional development credit for this workshop is available upon request. Please contact Kerri-Ann Munoz, Director of Dance Education, at kerriann.dancenj@gmail.com with questions regarding this event.
DNJFest ‘25 photos taken by SMPhotos
DNJFest
DNJFest ‘26 was held on Saturday, February 7th at Rutgers University’s Mason Gross School of the Arts in New Brunswick, NJ.
Stay tuned for information on the 2027 festival!
DNJFest brings together diverse styles of dance rooted in tradition, culture, and joy. In 2026, this event celebrated the unifying power of movement through styles including Bachata, Cuban Rueda, and Jersey Club. First Look Auditions also offered students and pre-professionals a chance to shine in front of top dance programs and companies from the NYC-Metro area. Students who participated were awarded summer intensive and college scholarships ranging from $750 - $80,000!
Fall Workshop: Dunham Technique with Michelle Grant-Murray!
Our Fall 2025 workshop was held on Thursday, November 13th at Union City High School in Union City, NJ.
Participants were immersed in Dunham Technique, with facilitation by Michelle Grant-Murray. This dynamic workshop blended modern dance with Afro-Caribbean and African traditions through the lens of the Dunham Technique. The day included both movement and discussion, examining the impact of Katherine Dunham’s legacy in dance, activism, and cultural identity.
Professional development credit for these workshops is available upon request. Please contact Kerri-Ann Munoz, Director of Dance Education, at kerriann.dancenj@gmail.com with questions regarding this event.
Past Workshops
Cover photo of Jōvan Dansberry’s workshop at DNJFest ‘25, taken by SMPhotos