Last week, Picayune dance instructor E.Jae James’ dream of operating a non-profit came to fruition when he received word from the Secretary of State regarding approval for his non-profit organization Dance Art Dance.
James is the owner of X-Finity Dance Academy and originally began Dance Art Dance to provide scholarships to students with artistic dreams.
“At first, I named it Dreambox Kids,” James said. “But I wanted to branch out with Dance Art Dance and help more young adults in the community.”
Through Dance Art Dance, young adults, ranging in ages from 5 to 20-years-old, will be provided the opportunity to attend art, music and dance camps, workshops and seminars, James said. Recipients may also be afforded the option of attending Broadway shows and plays in the New Orleans area as well as art workshops at the University of Southern Mississippi.
“Dance Art Dance will provide the avenue for young adults to explore the world of art,” James said.
James also plans to offer low-cost or free classes and activities hosted by professional artists. These classes will be available to artists of all ages, he said. Programs for children with special needs are also planned.
In order to qualify for Dance Art Dance, interested parties must submit a request that, explains the arts-related activities they are either seeking or are already involved in along with an essay about what art means to them, James said.
“It is my hope to bring more recognition to the arts,” James said. “I want to be able to give young people the power to be able to follow their dreams in an artistic world.”
James said an artistic career is not so much about prosperity as it is about passion.
“Every child deserves an opportunity, let’s advocate the arts,” James said. “Arts are who we are because we are individuals.”
To sign up or donate to Dance Art Dance, contact James via email at danceartdance@yahoo.com.
X-Finity Dance Academy is located at 1421 Goodyear Blvd.
For more information, contact James at 601-606-0622 or through Facebook at X-Finity Dance Academy. Visit the website at www.xfinitydance.com.