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[title]New York Dance Parade
Saturday 19
Shake your booty while learning about the cultural history of dance at this march, now in its sixth year. With a chronologically ordered showcase of performances, you’ll be able to trace the evolution of the art form, with references to African dance, medieval Irish step, clogging, samba, ballet, ballroom, swing, hustle, salsa and just about every other way of boogying down. Former American Ballet Theatre prima ballerina Ashley Tuttle, modern choreographer Elisa Monte, DJ Jonathan Peters and “soul-skating” pioneer Bill Shannon (who combines skateboards and crutches into his numbers) will lead the way as the parade’s grand marshals. Participating troupes include the Carolyn Dorfman Dance Company, the Pink Tutu Ballet and Michael Jackson–tribute ensemble Beat It NYC. And if you’re not actively getting down, be warned: The New York Dance Police, the parade’s uniformed brigade, may ticket you with coupons to local dance studios. Afterward, stop by the free DanceFest at the route’s end point in Tompkins Square Park to pick up a move or two from instructors who teach at Dance New Amsterdam and the Alvin Ailey Extension. From Broadway at 21st St to St. Marks Pl at Ave A (267-350-9213, danceparade.org). 1–7pm; free, grandstand $15–$50.
AIDS Walk New York
Sunday 20
More than 40,000 trekkers—including celebs like David Hyde Pierce, Audra McDonald and Nick Jonas—will participate in this ten-kilometer stroll through Central Park and the Upper West Side. The annual jaunt, now in its 27th year, raises awareness and money for 41 HIV/AIDS organizations in the tristate area, including organizer Gay Men’s Health Crisis. (You don’t have to pledge your own fund-raising minimum to join, although it’s recommended.) Registration begins at 8:15am, followed by an opening ceremony featuring the famous guests and GMHC CEO Marjorie J. Hill. At 10am, the walk commences, and by noon—provided you bring comfy shoes—you’ll have gotten in a little exercise and contributed to a good cause. Meet at Central Park, Fifth Ave and 59th St (aidswalk.net). 10am; free.
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Summer in New York: 2012
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