Dance Programs in the Community

Our dancers are specially trained to offer movement to underserved populations at no cost to the participants. Via local partnerships and video conference capabilities, our movement classes are offered in a hybrid format.

Click “learn more” on the class descriptions for more information on a class and how to register.

available both virtually and in person at the senior recreation center

Dance for Life

Dance for Life is a free weekly dance class designed to help people with a diagnosis of MS, Parkinson’s disease (PD), or other similar neurological movement disorders improve physical wellbeing, social interaction, and creative expression, as well as targeted improvements in balance, strength and mobility. The class involves both seated and optional standing movement activities that incorporate elements of modern dance, jazz, ballet, yoga, and social dance. No prior dance experience necessary.

Photo by Giuliano De Portu

available both virtually and in person at the senior recreation center

Dance for Joy (formerly Dance for Lifelong Health)

This program of free weekly dance classes is designed for participants over 60 with the focus on fun, fitness, creativity and community using easy dance techniques from jazz, modern, ballet and various national styles that contribute to experiencing the joy of motion. By creating an original dance almost every week, participants have fun with others, develop a sense of accomplishment and help retain independence through maintaining and enhancing fitness, and general wellness. No dance experience necessary. Facilitated by Rusti Brandman, UF dance faculty emerita and Arts in Medicine dancer in residence.

Photo by Charlotte Kesl Photography

available both virtually and in person at the senior recreation center

Encore Dancers Workshop

Encore Dancers Workshop provides dancers over 60 with an opportunity to continue their practice in an appropriate environment. The sessions consist of warm-up, skills and conditioning, creative exercises, and dance phrase work using concepts primarily from ballet and modern dance and incorporating input from participants. The classes focus on fun, fitness, community, collaboration, creativity, and goals important to the group. If you are dancing and/or have danced in your recent or even distant past, please join us and keep on dancing forever. Offered both live and on Zoom at the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85063767230

Photo by Charlotte Kesl Photography

Seniors on the Move: Dance

Dance class tailored to the "Seniors on the Move" group.

Seniors on the Move

On average, about 6,000 dance workshops are directed by an Arts in Medicine dancer in residence annually.