National Dance Institute Presents: Runs and Leaps Extravaganza!
Tuesday, July 28, 2026 — Jacques d'Amboise's birthday
Naumburg Bandshell, Central Park, New York City
Rain or shine

A run and a leap. It’s a simple act of joy and a quick moment to shine. It’s the feeling of being exactly enough, exactly as you are.

That's what NDI's signature step has given to more than two million children over the last 50 years. On July 28, we're coming together to show how powerful this one step can be. Join us at the Naumburg Bandshell in Central Park — we’re inviting 500+ alumni, families, supporters, and arts education advocates to perform it together.

Under the artistic direction of Kay Gayner and Christopher d'Amboise, NDI Teaching Artists will guide participants through an excerpt from beloved NDI repertoire, accompanied by NDI's live band under Music Director Yakir Ben Hur. We want everyone to dance with us — to experience the joy and exuberance of movement, embodying the positive effects of arts education. 

When 500+ people do this in the same place, on the same day, for the same reason, it isn't just a performance. It's a statement that the arts are essential and that early experiences in the arts stay with us forever.

No dance experience needed. You'll receive a short tutorial video before the day and learn everything in a short rehearsal when you arrive. Choreography is intentionally designed for accessibility.

What to expect:

9 AM: Check-in at Naumburg Bandshell near W 72nd St
10 AM: Small group rehearsals to find your places & learn easy, fun dances
11 AM: Rehearsal with hundreds of friends, new and old
12 PM: Perform for family, friends, and passersby!
1:15 PM: Mingle, hydrate, and enjoy - you've just shown the world the power of arts education!

Invite your friends and family and come as a group!

Registration is $25 and includes an NDI t-shirt – your costume for the day. Hurry to save your spot!