Movement, Motion, and a Little Magic at JCC Manhattan

In Fall 2025, Arts Ignite launched an exciting new partnership with the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan through Route 21+: Movement + Motion workshops and from the very first day, something special began to take shape.

Located on the Upper West Side, the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan is a dynamic community center dedicated to fostering connection, growth, and lifelong learning. Within this space, Route 21+: Movement + Motion offers something truly special: a dance experience designed for young adults with developmental disabilities. Each week, our dance Teaching Artist is greeted by a group of energized, joyful participants ready to move, groove, and create together. What started as a weekly class has quickly grown into a vibrant, supportive community—one where everyone is encouraged to show up fully and express themselves through dance.

When Arts Ignite returned in 2026, the momentum grew. The Movement + Motion residency continues to flourish, highlighting dance not just as an art form, but as a powerful tool for connection, confidence, and overall wellness.

Bringing Jazz (and Joy!) to the Upper West Side

On one particular Friday, participants explored the roots of jazz before diving into choreography set to “And All That Jazz” from the Broadway musical Chicago. As the routine grew more intricate, so did the dancers’ determination. No one backed down from the challenge; instead, participants leaned in, stayed engaged, and worked together to master each new step in real time. The workshop wrapped with group performances of the routine, and the room came alive with cheers, applause, and pure celebration.

The Heart Behind Route 21+: Movement + Motion

To capture the spirit of the program, we connected with Michelle Wexler, Director of Adult Programming and Inclusion Services, and Teaching Artist Taylor to share what makes this community so meaningful.

“Through this dance class, with a focus on access, inclusion, and authentic expression, our members’ friendships have flourished, confidence has grown, and a vibrant community has thrived—not to mention our dance moves have improved! We are grateful to our incredible teacher, Taylor, and to Arts Ignite for their partnership in nurturing this thoughtful, creative community.”

— Michelle Wexler, Director of Adult Programming and Inclusion Services

“I look forward to my Fridays at the JCC each week because there’s never a dull moment with the 21+ dancers! Their positive attitudes and willingness to try motivate me to be the best version of myself when I am with them.”

— Taylor Jackson, Teaching Artist

Through Route 21+: Movement + Motion, Arts Ignite continues to build spaces where movement becomes connection, expression becomes empowerment, and every participant shines.