MEDIA ADVISORY FOR IMMEIATE RELEASE
May 6, 2025
CONTACT:
Marcy Clark 212-729-9619
Audrey Ross 917-222-3973
Publicity@danceparade.org
DANCE PARADE NYC PRESS CONFERENCE AT CITY HALL
WHO:
- Hosted by City Council Member Carlina Rivera, Chair of the NYC Council’s Cultural Affairs Committee
- Dance Parade New York Executive Director Greg Miller
- 2025 Grand Marshals:
• David Parsons, renowned choreographer and founder of Parsons Dance
• Mercedes Ellington, jazz dance choreographer and granddaughter of Duke Ellington
• Funmilayo Chesney, African dance educator and founder of Fusha Dance Company
• Danny Tenaglia, Grammy-nominated DJ and global house music icon
WHAT:
Dance Parade New York will host its annual City Hall Press Conference to preview the 19th Annual Dance Parade & Festival, set to take place Saturday, May 17th. The press conference will feature remarks from elected officials and Grand Marshals and two live dance performances:
- Fusha Dance Company presenting Ipinay, a rhythmic Congolese social dance
- RBDC (Reba Browne Dance Company) presenting a fusion of Indian Classical and Bollywood styles
WHEN:
Wednesday, May 14, 2025
Press Check-in: 11:30 AM at Murray Street & Broadway
Press Conference: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
Prompt start on the steps of City Hall
WHERE:
Steps of New York City Hall
Entrance at Murray Street & Broadway, Manhattan
Press and attendees are encouraged to arrive by 11:30 AM
WHY:
The 19th Annual Dance Parade and Festival, the nation’s largest dance event of its kind, returns with over 10,000 dancers, 160+ unique styles, and 100+ cultural organizations celebrating the art of movement Saturday May 17th. This press conference gives media and elected leaders a first look at the performances and social impact of this citywide celebration.
About Fusha Dance Company
Fusha Dance Company presents Ipinay, a vibrant social dance from Congo that celebrates rhythm, community, and cultural expression. Rooted in tradition, this energetic performance showcases the rich movement and spirit of Congolese dance.
About RBDC (Reba Browne Dance Company)
RBDC is a NYC-based Indian performing arts organization guided by Artistic Director Reba Browne. Their repertory fuses the grace of classical Indian dance with the energetic spirit of Bollywood and folk styles to unite global audiences through the joy of dance.
About David Parsons
Founder and Artistic Director of Parsons Dance, David Parsons is one of modern dance’s most prolific and accomplished choreographers. His dynamic works have thrilled audiences in over 30 countries.
About Mercedes Ellington
Mercedes Ellington is a groundbreaking jazz choreographer, producer, and educator. As the granddaughter of Duke Ellington, she carries on a legacy of Black cultural excellence through dance.
About Funmilayo Chesney
A celebrated African dance educator and cultural ambassador, Funmilayo Chesney is the founder of Fist and Heel Performance Group. Her work is rooted in African traditions and dedicated to community empowerment.
About Danny Tenaglia
A Grammy-nominated DJ and legendary figure in global electronic music, Danny Tenaglia is known for shaping the sound of New York nightlife. He brings his passion for rhythm to the 2025 Dance Parade as Grand Marshal.