Empire State Youth Dance ENSEMble (ESYDE)

The Empire State Youth Dance Ensemble (ESYDE), a program of Nacre Dance Group, provides talented young dancers with the opportunity to work with visiting choreographers through a rigorous rehearsal schedule, helping them hone and expand their dance and performance skills. The program culminates in professional community performances that showcase their artistry and dedication.

We are excited to announce our upcoming season, featuring opportunities for dancers ages 13 and up to perform in:

• Christmas Oratorio (December 2025)

• Many Faces of Love – Isadora Duncan (February 2026)

• Nod to the Mothers – Doris Humphrey (May 2026)

The choreography Lab

A 6 week virtual training program to learn the movement tools, used in creating a piece of choreography. At completion you will receive a certificate and follow up sessions with your instructor as you finalize your piece.

Sip, Savor and Swirl -

October 17, 2026 at the universal preservation hall

For the Audience:
Experience an unforgettable evening at Universal Preservation Hall with a unique pairing of dance and wine from around the world. Enjoy choreographed pieces inspired by each wine, complemented by wine and cheese pairings from The Cheese Traveler.

For Choreographers:
We are accepting choreographer submissions (ages 21+) to create original works inspired by a specific wine. Selected choreographers will perform at Sip, Savor, and Swirl on October 17, 2026. Apply by May 30 for a chance to be commissioned for Nacre Dance Group’s upcoming season.

Nod to the mothers -

may 9, 2026 at the universal preservation hall

This Mother’s Day weekend, Nacre Dance Group presents Nod to the Mothers, a moving tribute to Doris Humphrey — one of the pioneering “mothers” of modern dance. A visionary choreographer and teacher, Humphrey helped shape the very foundation of modern dance with works that unite emotion, form, and innovation.

This special performance not only celebrates Humphrey’s lasting artistic legacy, but also honors the spirit of Mother’s Day — recognizing creativity, nurturing, and the power of women to shape future generations. Through her choreography, we are reminded that the gifts passed from one generation to the next live on in both art and life.

Join us in celebrating Doris Humphrey and all the “mothers” whose influence continues to inspire and uplift.

Many Faces of love -

February 3, 2026 at anthony’s italian restaurant & February 8, 2026 at the universal preservation hall

Nacre Dance Group presents Many Faces of Love, an evening dedicated to the timeless works of Isadora Duncan. Known as the “mother of modern dance,” Duncan expressed the human spirit through movement that was both deeply personal and universally resonant. This program highlights her choreography inspired by the many dimensions of love — from joy and tenderness to longing and loss.

Through Duncan’s groundbreaking artistry, audiences are invited to experience love in its purest forms, revealed through the grace, honesty, and passion of her dance.

Charles Weidman’s Christmas Oratorio -

December 14, 2025 at 12:00PM TEA/1:00PM Performance AND 3:00PM Tea/4:00PM Performance at the universal preservation hall

Join us for a breathtaking holiday performance as we present Charles Weidman’s Christmas Oratorio, set to Bach’s exquisite music. With expanded live music and choral accompaniment, this modern dance classic will come to life like never before under the direction of Noah Palmer.

Make the evening even more special by enjoying a festive holiday tea before the performance, provided by Chocolate Is Self Care. Guests can also decorate our dance tree, capture photos with the costumed cast, and celebrate the season in an interactive, joyful way.

Stay tuned for ticket details—we can't wait to share this unforgettable holiday tradition with you!