Two Decades of Dance

For 20 years, the Huntington YMCA dance program has graduated more than 80 students, some of whom have moved on to study at prestigious college and university programs, receiving scholarships for their performance talent. Among ballet, tap, hip-hop, Irish step and more, the dance program offers classes for students of all ages and experience levels.

“The Huntington YMCA dance program provides an opportunity for some truly talented dancers from all across Long Island to hone their craft,” said Billy Arasa, Executive Director of the Huntington YMCA. “For 20 years, we have enjoyed watching, and we are excited to hear about how they succeed in the future with what they have been taught here.”

This year’s Huntington YMCA graduate Mariah Anton has received a scholarship to the prestigious University of North Carolina School of the Arts. Mariah has been studying dance exclusively at the YMCA for more than eight years.

“I came to the YMCA when I was 9 years old. At the time, my only aspiration was to become a ballerina. Now, nearly ten years later, my goal of dancing professionally is still alive,” said Mariah Anton. “The YMCA has been essential in fostering the love and respect for dance which lead me to the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. The YMCA allowed me to express my feeling and thoughts without fear of judgement— whether it be on stage or in conversation.”

Many graduates of the Huntington YMCA dance program have used their skills to pursue what they love. Kelly Basil, a student of the YMCA dance program for many years, now performs with a modern dance company in Philadelphia, PA. Melanie Carminati, who studied dance exclusively at the YMCA for fourteen years, received Drexel University’s first-ever dance scholarship six years ago. She is now a physical therapist specializing in dance and sports injuries.

“The Huntington YMCA was a second home for me during my childhood and early adulthood. I had the opportunity to study ballet, modern, jazz, and tap dance techniques. The dance program acts as a safe haven for artistic growth and creativity,” said Melanie. “The teachers taught me the fundamentals of dance-injury prevention and the proper alignment and body mechanics in dance, which greatly influences me in my current career as a physical therapist and Pilates instructor. My experience with the Huntington YMCA dance program helped me to achieve a successful collegiate experience and professional career.”

The Huntington YMCA offers a quality dance education at an affordable price. Students as young as 18 months have multiple opportunities throughout the year to perform for friends and family. Costume fees are kept to a minimum. Along with classes, community youth can also join the Performing Arts Camp, which offers the student an opportunity to sample all different dance, art and theater classes.

Over the past two decades, the Huntington YMCA has granted several dance scholarships to its dedicated students. In celebration of its success, the Huntington YMCA would like to extend its gratitude to its seasoned and talented instructors, including master ballet teacher Jo-Ann Hertzman and jazz, tap and ballet instructor Pam Christy Allen. Cultural Arts Director of the Huntington YMCA Edie Cafiero along with Brooke Cortese, Kerri Greene, Brenda Confessore and Debbie Smith teach the young students and encourage them to develop a love of dance.

The YMCA is a leader in providing programs that strengthen the mind, body and spirit connection. Long Islanders of all ages and fitness levels learn to live their healthiest lives inside the YMCA’s state-of-the-art facilities in Brookhaven, East Hampton, Glen Cove,Bay Shore, Huntington and Patchogue. The YMCA of Long Island is a cause-driven nonprofit organization that works to strengthen communities through programs that focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. For information and locations, visit www.ymcali.org, or call the Huntington YMCA at (631) 421-4242.

Photo 1: Mariah Anton, 2015 graduate of the Huntington YMCA dance program, practices during ballet class. She will be studying dance at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts next year.

Photo 2: (L-R) Current YMCA dance student, Tricia Eder (left) and Mariah Anton (right) performing in a modern dance. Mariah has studied dance exclusively at the YMCA for approximately eight years and graduates from the program this year.

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