Battery Dance Presents America 250: Moving Together

Join us for a remarkable evening as Battery Dance presents America 250: Moving Together on the scenic waterfront near the Statue of Liberty. This one-night-only performance commemorates the U.S. semi-quincentennial, celebrating the diverse histories, cultures, and communities that have shaped our nation. 🌍💃

This special event emphasizes the rich contributions of Indigenous peoples who have stewarded these lands long before the founding of the United States. Through the beauty and power of dance, the performance invites you to reflect on the evolving narratives of identity, resilience, and belonging in America.

As Executive Director Emad M. Salem stated, “This performance honors the land we dance on, and the people who have created the dances that make our country a magnificent project.”

Raju Mann, President & CEO of Battery Park City Authority, expressed, “We’re delighted to welcome Battery Dance’s return for this historic summer of America’s 250th anniversary.” The performance not only marks our nation’s birthday but also highlights the decades-long partnership between Battery Park City and Battery Dance, promoting the arts for all. 🌟

This event is part of the Battery Dance Festival, bringing vibrant movement, music, and cultural celebration back to Wagner Park. Kick-off begins on August 10 with enriching community workshops led by local dance groups, always welcoming all ages to connect through shared movement. Performances officially commence on August 11, as the festival proudly stands as New York City’s longest-running free public dance festival. 🎶

Performance Schedule at Wagner Park

Date: July 25, 2026
Time: 7 PM
Program Highlights:

• Daystar, Contemporary Dance-Drama of Indian America:

  • Wolf: A Transformation — Choreographed by Rosalie Jones
  • Dances for Joanne and Mother Earth — Choreographed by Rosalie Jones
  • Hoop Dance performed by Sandra Lamouche (Cree) 🌿

• Dancing Earth:

  • Weaving of Worlds …We Dream in a Multiverse… — Artistic Direction by Rulan Tangen

• Battery Dance:

  • Heloha (World Premiere) — Choreographed by Jock Soto

• Martha Graham Dance Company:

  • Appalachian Spring — Choreographed by Martha Graham

• Jamel Gaines Creative Outlet:

  • Mothers of War — Choreographed by Christopher Huggins

• Battery Dance:

  • World Premiere by Sidra Bell

Get ready to celebrate and honor the rich cultural mosaic that makes up America!

For detailed festival information, visit Battery Dance Festival.

💡 Note: This event is included in the Battery Dance Festival, which relies on generous support from various organizations and individual donors. Join us to witness dance as a powerful form of communication and connection! 🤝

About the Artists

Battery Dance: Founded in 1976, Battery Dance continues to be a significant cultural ambassador for the arts, connecting the world through dance.
Dancing Earth: Since 2004, this initiative has provided a platform for Indigenous and BIPOC artists through innovative dance performances.
Daystar: Founded by Rosalie Jones, this company brings Native American narratives into the contemporary dance scene.
Jamel Gaines Creative Outlet: This acclaimed dance theatre company reflects social justice themes through transformative choreography.
Swirling talents of Jock Soto, Martha Graham Dance Company, and Sidra Bell push the boundaries of performance art, challenging both entertainers and audiences alike.