Flex Dance Program (est. 2014) is an arts education non profit that fosters positive growth among young people in difficult circumstances. FDP employs renowned dancers from local communities to develop routines with our students, promoting self-esteem, cooperation, and communication. We seek to transform physical energy into positive non-verbal self-expression that offers an alternative to conflict. Creative development is a key component of the Flex Program. Artists instruct and perform as Flex Dance Company. We hope to sustain future efforts through income generated through these endeavors. Students are likewise encouraged to join company.

Flex (Flexn) is a unique form of dance that originated on the streets of Brooklyn, New York in the 1990s. The Avantgarde art form is inspired by Dancehall and Bruk Up dance from Jamaica. Elements of Flex dance incorporate waving, connecting, hat tricks, bone-breaking, and gliding. Flex dance is distinguished by its contortionist body movements, and its “no-rules” narrative story-telling capabilities. Because of the reactive nature of Flex, the dancer is often inspired by his immediate environment and is free to tell his or her own story, making for a very emotional performance.

FDP continues to monitor and respond to the public health situation regarding COVID-19. We wish to support the City of New York’s efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19 and to prioritize the health of our students, artists, and staff. It is also our high priority to ensure that teaching, learning, and research (program evaluation) are progressing and that youth continue to have access to programs and opportunities that we offer. FDP will continue to provide lessons virtually while safely bringing lessons back to our partnering detention and foster care centers and group homes, which will be our main focus.