Celia Cruz

Step onto the dance floor and experience the rhythm of New York City like never before. Urban Stomp: Dreams & Defiance on the Dance Floor is a groundbreaking exhibition that celebrates over 200 years of social dance in the city. From historic ballrooms to underground clubs, dance has long been a source of joy, defiance, and collective expression—shaping and reflecting the city’s cultural evolution. Explore iconic styles such as the lindy hop, salsa, hip-hop, vogue, hustle, and more through an immersive mix of film, fashion, music, photography, and interactive experiences. The exhibition highlights the spaces where dance thrives—parks, streets, clubs, and communities—showcasing how movement creates connection and cultural transformation. A special section of Urban Stomp is dedicated to Celia Cruz, the Queen of Salsa, whose powerful voice and indelible presence helped propel salsa to global recognition. Through rare photographs, video footage, and artifacts from the Celia Cruz Foundation, visitors will get an intimate look at her influence on Latin dance culture and how her music continues to inspire dancers across generations. Presented in collaboration with the Institute of Jazz Studies, Rutgers University–Newark, Urban Stomp brings together contributions from leading cultural institutions, dance practitioners, and musicians, making this exhibition an essential stop for anyone passionate about dance, history, and the vibrant energy of New York. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind celebration of movement, music, and community. Join us at Urban Stomp, opening April 11, 2025, at 1220 Fifth Ave at 103rd St., New York, NY, and step into the world of Celia Cruz, where every beat is an invitation to dance.