Kids Do Dance
Creative dance program for kids | Ages 6-12 | Monday-Friday | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Each weeklong program will challenge the children through fun, active dance classes that build skill and technique; nurture the child's choreographic voice and individual artistic expression through composition studies; and develop the child's connections to professional dancers in residency at The Yard and the community of Martha's Vineyard.
Our popular dance program for youth ages 6-12. Developed by Deborah Damast, longtime islander, Yard artist, and Director of Dance Education at New York University’s Steinhardt School of Education, this original program offers a dynamic, innovative approach to movement for young people led by dance educators.
At KDD, kids use stories, literature, imagination, lived experiences, the environment, and more as inspiration to choreograph their own dances. Incorporating physical movement, partner work, voice, and other creative expression, young dancers create a 45-minute show to share with parents, families, and friends on the final day of the program. And just like the professionals, KDD caps off the week with a youth artist Q&A and milk and cookie reception.
$400 per session per youth. Registration Required.
Some scholarships are available for year-round residents and Martha’s Vineyard guests. Contact Programming Director Yvonne Mendez at yvonnemendez@dancetheyard.org for scholarship information.
Our 2025 Program
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Session 1 : July 14-18
Session 1: Metamorphosis in Motion (July 14-18)
Dive into a magical week of dance where young performers (ages 6-12) will explore the beauty and rhythms of nature through self-expression and collaborative dance-making. Inspired by the transformation of butterflies, campers will choreograph their own dances, blending movement, imagination, and the wonders of the earth. They’ll design their own butterfly wings, experiment with flowing fabric, and bring their ideas to life while mentored by dancers/teachers/choreographers from NYC and the Island. The week concludes with a special Friday performance, where the young artists will showcase their unique creations for family and friends.
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Session 2: July 28 - August 1
Week 2: Movement for Change: Dance and Environmental Justice (July 28 - August 1)
Young dancers (ages 6-12) will explore the power of movement to tell stories about the environment and the importance of protecting our planet. Campers will learn how dance can be a powerful tool for raising awareness about environmental issues, from climate change to conservation, and how it can inspire action for a more sustainable future. They will develop their dance technique while creating original pieces that reflect their thoughts and ideas on topics like protecting nature, advocating for clean air and water, and honoring the planet’s resources. The week concludes with a Friday performance where the dancers will showcase their work, sharing their voices for environmental justice with family and friends.
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Session 3: August 4-8
Week 3: Dancing the Island (August 4-8)
Young dancers (ages 6-12) will spend the week creating original dances inspired by the beauty of Martha’s Vineyard. Drawing from the island’s coastal landscapes, farms, and vibrant communities, campers will develop their dance technique while exploring the creative process of choreography. With the guidance of experienced dancers, teachers, and choreographers from NYC and the Vineyard, they will collaborate to bring their unique ideas to life through movement. The week culminates in a special Friday performance, where they will showcase their dances for family and friends.
