Performers in colorful traditional African attire dancing on stage, some playing drums and stringed instruments, with a red curtain backdrop.

making moves dance festival

Event details

Making Moves Dance Festival

September 19, 20, 21, 2025 • 7pm

Jamaica Performing Arts Center
153-10 Jamaica Ave

Jamaica, NY 11432
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$10 General admission

POWER. CULTURE. MOTION.

Now in its 15th year, JCAL’s Making Moves Dance Festival brings bold new energy to the stage with commissions and works-in-progress by Queens-based choreographers and dance companies. This year’s lineup honors the festival’s roots as a platform for underrepresented voices while spotlighting artists who continue to push dance forward. Get ready to be captivated by this three-day dance extravaganza featuring a wide range of disciplines such as hip-hop, ballet, jazz, tap, and more.

Making Moves Dance Festival is a culmination of hard work from JCAL staff and the community of Southeast Queens. Commissions and works-in-progress by Queens-based choreographers and dance companies are presented each September. All year long, JCAL also partners with Redtail Artist Residencies, which supports NYC dance and music artists through free space and public performances.

Group of people with colorful clothing and hair flying, engaged in a lively activity against a dark background.
Group of dancers in traditional costumes performing on stage with large red umbrellas covering their heads.

  • "The Making Moves Dance Festival is truly special this year. We are very excited to add a third day of dance to the festival ... It makes me want to get on the Marley floor myself."

    JCAL Artistic Director Courtney Ffrench

CAN’T MAKE IT FOR MAKINg MOVES?