Jennifer Abad-Amato is a New York-based dance professional. She is the founder and Artistic Director of Beyond Dance, established in 2004. She is a graduate of Marymount Manhattan College and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Dance. Over the course of her career, she has established herself as a seasoned dance educator. She has studied under artists and ballet instructors Katie Langan, Anthony Ferro, Nancy Lushington, and one of America’s most sought-after ballet instructors, Finis Jhung. Jennifer has taught all ages for the past 26 years. She has studied all areas of dance and is well versed in styles such as contemporary and jazz. Along with the Beyond Dance Company, Jennifer participated in Broadway Dance Center’s “Pulse On Tour” taking classes with renowned choreographers such as Mia Michaels, Dana Foglia, Brian Friedman, Cris Judd, and Dave Scott. In 2015, Jennifer along with faculty and staff attended Rhee Gold Dance Life Conference in Scottsdale, Arizona. In 2011, Jennifer founded Push Beyond to help students find new methods and ideas, expose them to teachers and choreographers from all over, and allow them to work with the community and have a voice through dance. All events through Push Beyond, including workshops, student choreography showcases, and fundraisers, are designed to help students further develop as human beings and artists in a personal and stress-free environment. Through Push Beyond, Jennifer began holding annual student choreography showcases in 2015 as fundraisers for a cause. She has developed strong ties with her community, as well as with friends and local businesses. She continues to work with the community through dance to raise awareness in the fight against Childhood Cancer. Many students who have trained at Beyond Dance and attained a superior level of artistry have been accepted into Performing Arts middle schools, high schools and college dance programs. In 2023, Jennifer founded the “We Push Beyond” inclusive dance program at Beyond Dance. She's is thrilled to see the program finally getting its wings. We Push Beyond provides a creative space for learning and connecting where everyone feels welcomed and valued. Her mission is to empower students through music and movement and strengthen community. This program celebrates music and dance, improves health, focus, builds self- esteem and increases quality of life. Her belief is that dance = happy minds and healthy hearts.
Jennifer always brings her knowledge, experience, love, and passion for dance to her students. She is so proud to have her Beyond Dance doors open in its permanent home at 8009 3rd Avenue, Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. Jennifer is so proud of celebrating 20 years in business. She is looking forward to her 21st season with Beyond Dance and many more years to come as a staple in her community as well as her industry.