ARTS
Amplifying & Refining Talents
ARTS Pilot #2 - September 13, 2026
A one-day youth development experience jointly led by Holiday HOOPS & ARTS and Jere' James-Snowden, Founder of the Inez Patricia School of Dance. Our second pilot will combine movement, dance, athletic wellness, creativity, confidence-building, and life skills in a structured program designed for both young athletes and youth interested in the arts.
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​Now introducing our ARTS Program!​ ​
We recognize the talent and creativity that exists within our youth beyond the basketball court. The ARTS Program opens doors to artistic exploration through partnerships with dance companies, theater organizations, film creatives, and educational institutions. By expanding access to the ARTS, we create new pathways for self-expression, confidence, and opportunity.
VISION FOR THE ARTS
Our vision is to launch multi-faceted dance and show choir programs that grow into a full music theater pathway. Through the ARTS, youth develop creativity, discipline, and confidence while strengthening academic performance and preparing for college or career opportunities. Our goal is to support young artists whose skills enhance both their quality of life and their future potential.
ARTS PILOT #1
FALL 2025
In Fall 2025, Holiday HOOPS & ARTS successfully launched ARTS Pilot Program: Part 1 in partnership with teaching artist Kristal DeClou and Hungerford Elementary School. This pilot introduced students to creative expression through movement, performance, and collaborative storytelling, marking an important first step in expanding our ARTS programming.
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As we prepare for future program expansion, we invite you to learn more about Kristal's inspiration and the impact of this exciting new initiative.
Click here to learn more about Kristal and our latest activity
ONGOING COLLABORATION
WILDCAT SUPPORTERS & FRIENDS
Holiday HOOPS & ARTS partners with Wildcat Supporters & Friends for innovative arts and technology experiences. Students explore creative AI using tools such as ChatGPT to write scripts, generate choreography prompts, and remix music themes. This collaboration reflects our commitment to blending traditional artistic talent with emerging technology and creating spaces where young artists can imagine what’s possible.
FUTURE: STEAM CHEERLEADING &
DANCE ACADEMY
We are actively pursuing grant funding to launch a first-of-its-kind STEAM Cheerleading and Dance Academy, integrating movement, athleticism, science, and the ARTS into one dynamic learning experience.
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This initiative will empower students to:
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Build confidence and discipline
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Strengthen teamwork through cheer and choreography
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Connect physical activity with STEAM-based learning outcomes
ADDITIONAL LINKS:
FUNDING NEEDED
We invite partners and supporters to help bring the ARTS Program to life by supporting artists-in-residence teaching fees and program costs for participating youth. Together, we can unlock the next phase of our ARTS initiative and expand creative opportunities across our community. We seek partners who share our vision for excellence and believe in the power of hard work, creativity, and opportunity.
Contact WTH@holidayhoops.org or (203) 548-0601 to discuss and learn more.