Jose Limon Dance Foundation

For over half a century, the Jose Limon Dance Foundation has been a beacon in the world of modern dance, preserving and perpetuating the profound legacy of its visionary founder, José Limón. More than just a dance organization, it is a living testament to a humanistic approach to movement and theater, deeply rooted in the heart of New York City. The Foundation encompasses two pivotal entities: the acclaimed Limón Dance Company, renowned for its compelling performances and vast repertoire, and the Limón Institute, a vital educational and archival resource. This institution is a cultural treasure for locals and visitors alike, offering a unique window into the evolution of American modern dance and providing opportunities for both aspiring and seasoned dancers to connect with a powerful artistic tradition. From breathtaking performances to immersive training, the Jose Limon Dance Foundation enriches the vibrant cultural tapestry of New York, embodying strength, fluidity, and dramatic expression in every movement.

The Jose Limon Dance Foundation is conveniently situated at 466 W 152nd St #2, New York, NY 10031, USA, placing it within the dynamic Upper Manhattan neighborhood. This location in Washington Heights/Hamilton Heights makes it readily accessible for residents throughout Manhattan, the Bronx, and beyond. Public transportation options are plentiful, with subway lines and bus routes serving the area, ensuring a straightforward journey for anyone eager to experience the world of Limón dance. Being positioned in a residential and culturally rich part of the city, the Foundation is easily reachable for daily classes and workshops, as well as for those attending performances or special events. Its presence outside the immediate bustle of Midtown or Downtown offers a more community-focused and authentic New York experience, allowing locals to engage with a world-renowned arts organization right in their own backyard.

---

Services Offered

• Professional Training Programs: The Limón Institute offers intensive New York City-based programs (LimónPro and LimónLaunch) for pre-professional and professional dancers, focusing on artistic development, dance theory, repertory, research, and performance opportunities.
• Limón Dance Company Performances: The internationally acclaimed Limón Dance Company regularly performs classic works by José Limón, Doris Humphrey, and Charles Weidman, alongside new commissions from contemporary choreographers, offering a diverse and compelling performance schedule.
• Limón4Kids: An arts and education program that introduces modern dance, particularly the Limón-Humphrey technique and philosophy, to PreK-12th grade students in NYC schools, often focusing on underserved communities. This program integrates José Limón's personal story to discuss heritage, community, and identity through movement.
• Classes and Workshops: The Limón Institute provides a variety of classes and workshops in the Limón Technique, catering to different skill levels from beginners to advanced dancers. These sessions delve into the natural rhythms of fall and recovery and the interplay of weight and weightlessness central to the Limón style.
• Archival Resources: The Foundation serves as an invaluable archival resource center, meticulously documenting Limón's dances, techniques, and writings, ensuring the preservation of this significant artistic heritage for future generations of dancers and scholars.
• Licensing of Limón Works: The Limón Institute oversees the licensing of José Limón's choreographic works to dance companies and educational institutions worldwide, extending the reach and influence of his profound artistry.
• Limón2: The Foundation's second company dedicated to the development of young professionals, providing a platform for emerging talent to engage with iconic Limón works and new choreography, and fostering community engagement.

---

Features / Highlights

• Pioneering Legacy: The Jose Limon Dance Foundation is a direct continuation of the work of José Limón, one of the most important and influential figures in 20th-century modern dance, and his mentors Doris Humphrey and Charles Weidman.
• Iconic Repertoire: The Limón Dance Company performs a rich repertoire of classic works such as "The Moor's Pavane," "Missa Brevis," "There Is a Time," and "Chaconne," demonstrating the timelessness and dramatic power of Limón's choreography.
• Humanistic Approach: The core of the Limón technique and philosophy emphasizes a humanistic approach to movement, focusing on the complexities of human life and emotion expressed through the body with strength and fluidity.
• International Recognition: The Limón Dance Company has earned global acclaim, being one of the first modern dance companies to tour internationally under the U.S. State Department and to perform at prestigious venues like Lincoln Center and the White House.
• Educational Outreach: Through programs like Limón4Kids, the Foundation actively engages with diverse communities, making modern dance accessible to young people across New York City and integrating cultural education with artistic development.
• Preservation and Innovation: The Foundation not only preserves historical works but also commissions new pieces from contemporary choreographers, ensuring the Limón legacy remains vibrant and relevant in the evolving landscape of modern dance.
• Exceptional Dancers: The Limón Dance Company is known for its highly skilled dancers who embody the technical mastery, dramatic expression, and expansive movement quality characteristic of the Limón style.
• Community Engagement: Beyond formal training and performances, the Foundation actively seeks to foster community through various initiatives, including LimónOutdoors, which invites the entire city to participate in and enjoy dance.

---

Contact Information

Address: 466 W 152nd St #2, New York, NY 10031, USA

Phone: (212) 777-3353

Mobile Phone: +1 212-777-3353

---

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For New Yorkers seeking a deep dive into the world of modern dance, or simply looking for enriching cultural experiences, the Jose Limon Dance Foundation is an unparalleled local asset. Its location in Upper Manhattan makes it conveniently accessible for residents across the boroughs, allowing easy access to world-class dance education and performances without venturing far from home. The Foundation offers something for everyone, from professional dancers looking to refine their craft through the rigorous training programs of the Limón Institute, to young students being introduced to the joy of movement and cultural narratives through Limón4Kids. Even if you're not a dancer, attending a performance by the Limón Dance Company is a profound experience. Their dramatic expression and technical prowess bring to life the humanistic stories embedded in Limón's timeless choreography, offering a captivating evening of artistry right here in the city. The Foundation's commitment to both preserving a significant historical legacy and fostering new choreographic voices ensures that it remains a dynamic and relevant force in the contemporary dance scene. By supporting the Jose Limon Dance Foundation, New Yorkers not only engage with a globally recognized institution but also contribute to the vibrancy of their local arts community, ensuring that the transformative power of dance continues to thrive and inspire future generations. It's an opportunity to connect with a unique piece of American cultural heritage, improve physical and artistic skills, and become part of a passionate community, all within the convenience and richness of New York City life.

Jose Limon Dance Foundation

466 W 152nd St #2, New York, NY 10031, USA