DSN Dance Academy Brings Rhythm, Joy, and Community to the Stage

Each year, DSN Dance Academy dazzles the Jersey Shore community audience with a recital that’s more than a performance — it’s a vibrant celebration of talent, growth, passion, and togetherness. This spring, DSN truly outdid itself with its high-energy, heart-filled show, themed “Dancing in the Streets”, under the direction of directors Danielle Hanan and Sari Abraham.

From the moment the curtains opened at the historic Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank on April 6, the DSN parents were transported to a world where city streets pulsed with music, movement, and meaning. The recital was the grand finale of a program that began in September, uniting 254 female dancers, ages 3 to 16, across 33 different dance groups. With styles ranging in ballet, tap, hip hop, jazz funk, and contemporary, each number captured the soul of urban life through the lens of dance.
Danielle Hanan, DSN Dance Director, summed up the spirit of the show beautifully, stating “Our dance recital is more than just a showcase, it’s a celebration of passion, creativity, and community. This year’s theme was all about bringing the energy and rhythm of the streets to the stage- where every corner told a story, and every movement had a heartbeat. From our tiniest 3-year-olds to our seasoned teens, our dancers poured their hearts into every style. DSN Dance Academy students embraced the spirit of each city and turned it into something magical through dance. I couldn’t be prouder of how they’ve come together to turn the ‘streets’ into their stage.”
Assistant Director, Sari Abraham, added “This dance season has been nothing short of incredible. Watching each dancer grow, shine, and bring their passion to the stage has filled us with so much pride. Every year, we’re reminded why we love what we do—and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for this amazing group.”
A highlight of this year’s program was the debut of the Junior Dance Team, featuring dancers in 5th and 6th grade, performing alongside the Senior Dance Team, composed of dancers from 7th grade through high school. These talented groups wowed the audience with dynamic routines that showcased not just technical skill, but creativity and unity.
DSN’s Youth Director, Frieda Shamah, emphasized the impact the recital has year after year: “Our annual dance recital is truly the event of the year. With over 250 girls participating, the energy and excitement they bring to the stage is electric. Our dedicated teachers and directors pour countless hours of hard work into every choreography and detail, and watching their efforts come to life alongside these talented dancers makes it one of the most fun and rewarding experiences of the year.”
The 2025 faculty included an exceptional team of instructors who guided and inspired the dancers: Sari Abraham, Nicole Fera, Gianna Forgione, Melissa Haskell, Paulette Ashkenazi Ozer, Cynthia Pearsall, Katrina Portagalo, Amy Trapasso, and Claire Whitmore. Their dedication helped shape a season filled with growth, confidence, and unforgettable moments.
As DSN Dance Academy continues to grow, so does its impact — not only as a place to learn dance but as a vibrant community that celebrates each child’s unique journey. This year’s theme turned every step into a story and every dancer into a shining light, reminding us all that joy and rhythm can be found in every corner of life — especially when we dance together.