August 1, 2023 (New York) – Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning (JCAL) is pleased to present Making Moves Dance Festival 2023 - To Freedom! The three day event will kick off Friday, September 22nd and end Sunday, September 24th. On each evening, the festivities will begin at 7 pm inside of Jamaica Performing Art Center’s 400 seat theater at 153-10 Jamaica Avenue. Now in it’s 14th year, Making Moves Dance Festival (MMDF) has served as a platform to promote new, emerging, and underrepresented dance companies.

Along with presenting new dance companies to its stage, JCAL will welcome alumni back this year with a special performance from Jamel Gaines – a favorite from MMDF 2022. The festival will feature ten dance companies overall, including two major commissions by Nicole Von Arx — NVA & Guests and Sahasra Sambamoorthi of Navatman, INC.

Other highlights include MoJazz Dance, a company comprised of women ages 45-75 years young. With roots in fashion, funk, soul, and groove, Austin Warren Coats will present a must-see show while Dance and Community Ensemble is set to deliver an inspiring Odissi Indian Dance performance.

MMDF has grown steadily since it’s inception, and 2023 will be the first year in which the festival will span three days rather than two. Attendees can expect an exciting celebration of diverse cultures, and the power of movement at this event.

Meet the Coreographers