A virtual conversation between Lakshmi Sirois and Donna Newman-Bluestein about play and authenticity.
Where: Natick Senior Center, 117 E. Central St., Natick, MA 01760
When: August 20, 2026, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
RSVP is required. Please contact Debbie Budd, 508-647-6540 ext. 1906 to register or for more information.
The Meaningful Connections Memory Café is a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals living with memory loss and their care partners. Each month we will offer entertainment or an activity and a light lunch. Please join us.
Join us as dance movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein invites us to sing or hum, and stretch, shake, twist, and bend to irresistible, toe-tapping music, both familiar and new, from the Big Bands, the 1940’s to the 60's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean. Together we will create community as we dance in our seats and or on our feet. If you've got a heartbeat, you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
Where: Dedham Public Library, 43 Church Street, Dedham, MA 02026
When: August 13, 2026, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00
Cost: Free
RSVP is required. Please contact Michaela Calderwood @ mcalderwood@minlib.net to register or telephone 781-751-9284 for more information.
The Memory Café at Dedham Public Library is a welcoming, interactive place for individuals and families living with memory changes. Come enjoy a light lunch, make new friends and participate in a fun, failure-free activity. A care partner must accompany guests who require personal care assistance. This program is sponsored in part by community partners.
Join us as dance movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein invites us to sing or hum, and stretch, shake, twist, and bend to irresistible, toe-tapping music, both familiar and new, from the Big Bands, the 1950’s to the 80's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean. Together we will create community as we dance in our seats and or on our feet. If you've got a heartbeat, you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
Where: JF&CS Headquarters
1430 Main Street, Waltham
When: Friday, Aug. 7, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – noon
Cost: Free
RSVP not required, but please call or email to confirm dates. Contact Beth at bsoltzberg@jfcsboston.org or 781-693-5628 for more information.
A welcoming place for individuals and families living with memory changes. Enjoy coffee, refreshments, creative arts, and conversation with new friends of all ages. A guest artist leads a creative exploration each month. Co-hosted by the Waltham Student Group of Brandeis University. A care partner must accompany guests who require personal care assistance.
With a wide range of irresistible, toe-tapping music from the Big Bands to the 70's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean, dance movement facilitator Donna Newman-Bluestein will get us to stretch, shake, twist and bend together. Come ready to have fun and leave with a greater sense of vitality and well-being. If you've got a heartbeat you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
Octaband® creator will be in the house at NewCAJE17 at Regis College in Weston, MA.
Where: Weston Council on Aging, 20 Alphabet Lane, Weston, MA 02493
When: July 16, 2:00 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
Cost: Free
RSVP is requested. Please call the COA to register 781-786-6280
Join us for refreshments, music, and movements as we launch a new series for people experiencing memory changes and their family members or caregivers.
Join us as dance movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein invites us to sing or hum, and stretch, shake, twist, and bend to irresistible, toe-tapping music, both familiar and new, from the Big Bands, the 1940’s to the 60's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean. Together we will create community as we dance in our seats and or on our feet. If you've got a heartbeat, you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
Where: Dedham Public Library, 43 Church Street, Dedham, MA 02026
When: July 9, 2026, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00
Cost: Free
RSVP is required. Please contact Michaela Calderwood @ mcalderwood@minlib.net to register or telephone 781-751-9284 for more information.
The Memory Café at Dedham Public Library is a welcoming, interactive place for individuals and families living with memory changes. Come enjoy a light lunch, make new friends and participate in a fun, failure-free activity. A care partner must accompany guests who require personal care assistance. This program is sponsored in part by community partners.
Join us as dance movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein invites us to sing or hum, and stretch, shake, twist, and bend to irresistible, toe-tapping music, both familiar and new, from the Big Bands, the 1950’s to the 80's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean. Together we will create community as we dance in our seats and or on our feet. If you've got a heartbeat, you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
Where: Dedham Public Library, 43 Church Street, Dedham, MA 02026
When: June 11, 2026, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00
Cost: Free
RSVP is required. Please contact Michaela Calderwood @ mcalderwood@minlib.net to register or telephone 781-751-9284 for more information.
Dedham Public Library Memory Café
The Memory Café at Dedham Public Library is a welcoming, interactive place for individuals and families living with memory changes. Come enjoy a light lunch, make new friends and participate in a fun, failure-free activity. A care partner must accompany guests who require personal care assistance. This program is sponsored in part by community partners.
Join us as dance movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein invites us to sing or hum, and stretch, shake, twist, and bend to irresistible, toe-tapping music, both familiar and new, from the Big Bands, the 1950’s to the 80's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean. Together we will create community as we dance in our seats and or on our feet. If you've got a heartbeat, you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
Exhibiting Octabands at Dance for World Community in 2016 with the N.E. Chapter of the ADTA
I will be exhibiting Octabands at the Dance for World Community festival on June 7. Come by and try them out. This fabulous festival offers countless performances and 1/2 hr mini classes, free and open to the public thanks to the generosity of José Mateo Dance Festival and the visionary who makes it possible, José Mateo..
Back Pocket Dancers Rehearsing So Much Within
Please also come by to see Back Pocket Dancers as we perform several dances on Stage 2 at 1:35 pm.
Where: Norfolk Public Library, 2 Liberty Lane, Norfolk, MA 02056
When:May 27, 2025, 11:00 p.m. – 12:00
Cost: Free
RSVP: Please register by calling the Norfolk Senior Center at 508-528-4430, so we can make sure there is lunch available for you and your partner.
For individuals living with memory loss and their care partners. Join the Norfolk Council on Aging and Norfolk Public Library for this fun, interactive moving to music with Donna Newman-Bluestein.
Lunch will be served.
Join us as dance movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein invites us to sing or hum, and stretch, shake, twist, and bend to irresistible, toe-tapping music, both familiar and new, from the 1950’s to the 70's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean. Together we will create community as we dance in our seats and/or on our feet. If you've got a heartbeat, you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
Where: Dedham Public Library, 43 Church Street, Dedham, MA 02026
When: May 14, 2026, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00
Cost: Free
RSVP is required. Please contact Michaela Calderwood @ mcalderwood@minlib.net to register or telephone 781-751-9284 for more information.
Dedham Public Library Memory Café
The Memory Café at Dedham Public Library is a welcoming, interactive place for individuals and families living with memory changes. Come enjoy a light lunch, make new friends and participate in a fun, failure-free activity. A care partner must accompany guests who require personal care assistance. This program is sponsored in part by community partners.
Join us as dance movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein invites us to sing or hum, and stretch, shake, twist, and bend to irresistible, toe-tapping music, both familiar and new, from the Big Bands, the 1950’s to the 80's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean. Together we will create community as we dance in our seats and or on our feet. If you've got a heartbeat, you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
Where: Boston Public Library, 30 South Street, Jamaica Plain
When: April 27, 2026, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
RSVP is required. RSVP AT 617-635-3745 OR CORINNE.WHITE@BOSTON.GOV
A Memory Café is for those living with memory loss, along with their loved ones & care partners. Connect with community, participate in meaningful and joyful programming, & enjoy free refreshments from Home.stead Bakery & Café!
Dance session at Respite for All, RFA, Montgomery, AL
Join us as dance movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein invites us to sing or hum, and stretch, shake, twist, and bend to irresistible, toe-tapping music, both familiar and new, from the Big Bands, the 1950’s to the 80's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean. Together we will create community as we dance in our seats and or on our feet. If you've got a heartbeat, you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
Bridges by EPOCH at Westwood, 140 University Ave, Westwood, MA 02090
Coffee, snacks and light lunch provided.
Register cost: $275
Learn the skills to engage, inspire and uplift older adults and people with dementia through dance and expressive movement.
Donna Newman-Bluestein will model and teach through experiential methods and discussions how to customize your groups to motivate older adults to express themselves so they feel seen, heard, and appreciated for who they are. The 15 hours includes participation in two groups with people with dementia.
Workshop topics include:
aspects of dementia relevant to bringing dance
elements of dance
group leadership
theory
identifying benefits, including brain neuroscience
model program, adaptable for your dance style, strengths, and clients
Who will benefit from this training?
dance/movement/music/expressive therapists
dance teachers
caregivers
mental health counselors
activity therapists
anyone who enjoys dancing and working with people with dementia
This course has been approved for 1 Alternate Route Credit or 15 CEUs for the American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA).
Sat., April 18, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sun, April 19, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Register here.
Where: Dedham Public Library, 43 Church Street, Dedham, MA 02026
When: April 9, 2026, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00
Cost: Free
RSVP is required. Please contact Michaela Calderwood @ mcalderwood@minlib.net to register or telephone 781-751-9284 for more information.
Dedham Public Library Memory Café
The Memory Café at Dedham Public Library is a welcoming, interactive place for individuals and families living with memory changes. Come enjoy a light lunch, make new friends and participate in a fun, failure-free activity. A care partner must accompany guests who require personal care assistance. This program is sponsored in part by community partners.
Join us as dance movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein invites us to sing or hum, and stretch, shake, twist, and bend to irresistible, toe-tapping music, both familiar and new, from the Big Bands, the 1950’s to the 80's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean. Together we will create community as we dance in our seats and or on our feet. If you've got a heartbeat, you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
Expose Dementia conference 2026 outside Baltimore, MD features workshops by art, music, and dance therapists, keynote speakers, art exhibits, a comedy show, a film festival, and more. Respite services will be provided for caregivers who want to bring their loved ones with mild to moderate cognitive impairment.
We are thrilled to be exhibiting again this year and sharing a little of our magic with care providers and people with dementia.
Demonstrating the Octaband to fellow exhibitors/ researchers
Heart-to-heart connections.
Where: Dedham Public Library, 43 Church Street, Dedham, MA 02026
When: March 12, 2026, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00
Cost: Free
RSVP is required. Please contact Michaela Calderwood @ mcalderwood@minlib.net to register or telephone 781-751-9284 for more information.
Dedham Public Library Memory Café
The Memory Café at Dedham Public Library is a welcoming, interactive place for individuals and families living with memory changes. Come enjoy a light lunch, make new friends and participate in a fun, failure-free activity. A care partner must accompany guests who require personal care assistance. This program is sponsored in part by community partners.
Join us as dance movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein invites us to sing or hum, and stretch, shake, twist, and bend to irresistible, toe-tapping music, both familiar and new, from the Big Bands, the 1950’s to the 80's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean. Together we will create community as we dance in our seats and or on our feet. If you've got a heartbeat, you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
Presenting a workshop at the Dance Therapy Association of Australia (Now Australasia)
“Dance for Connection”
Board-certified dance/movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein, MEd, BC-DMT, CMA, LMHC will share how she transforms the culture of care through dance and embodied caregiving and why dance is so valuable for people with dementia and their care partners.
RSVP required. Contact the Sherborn Council on Aging at 508-651-7858 or email coa@sherbornma.org if you have any questions or would like to request an accommodation to participate.
Lunch is provided. This program meets at Town Hall on the 2nd floor on the fourth Friday of the month at Noon.
Where: Dedham Public Library, 43 Church Street, Dedham, MA 02026
When: February 12, 2026, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00
Cost: Free
RSVP is required. Please contact Michaela Calderwood @ mcalderwood@minlib.net to register or telephone 781-751-9284 for more information.
The Memory Café at Dedham Public Library is a welcoming, interactive place for individuals and families living with memory changes. Come enjoy a light lunch, make new friends and participate in a fun, failure-free activity. A care partner must accompany guests who require personal care assistance. This program is sponsored in part by community partners.
Join us as dance movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein invites us to sing or hum, and stretch, shake, twist, and bend to irresistible, toe-tapping music, both familiar and new, from the Big Bands, the 1940’s to the 60's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean. Together we will create community as we dance in our seats and or on our feet. If you've got a heartbeat, you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
Where: Boston Public Library, Codman Square Branch, 690 Washington Street, Dorchester, MA
When: February 11, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
RSVP is required. RSVP AT 617-635-3745 OR CORINNE.WHITE@BOSTON.GOV
A Memory Café is for those living with memory loss, along with their loved ones & care partners.
Connect with community, participate in meaningful and joyful programming, & enjoy free refreshments from Home.stead Bakery & Café!
Photo thanks to Respite For All (RFA), Montgomery AL
Join us as dance movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein invites us to sing or hum, and stretch, shake, twist, and bend to irresistible, toe-tapping music, both familiar and new, from the Big Bands, the 1950’s to the 80's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean. Together we will create community as we dance in our seats and or on our feet. If you've got a heartbeat, you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
This screenshot is from a virtual training Dr. Heather Hill of Australia and I co-led in 2023.
Dance for Brain Health is part of the virtual education series, New Year, New Mindset: Resolutions for Brain Health in 2026, offered by Alzheimer's Association MA/NH to help build habits that support cognitive wellness. Explore practical strategies and science-backed tips to keep your brain healthy and resilient in 2026 and beyond.
This will be an experiential session I will facilitate, weaving in the numerous ways that dance contributes to brain and whole body health and wellness. Here is the link to register for any of the sessions.
Where: Weston Council on Aging, 20 Alphabet Lane, Weston, MA 02493
When: January 15, 2026, 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m
Cost: Free
RSVP is requested. Please call the COA to register 781-786-6280
Join us for refreshments, music, and movements as we launch a new series for people experiencing memory changes and their family members or caregivers.
Photo taken at the Bedford COA Memory Café
Join us as dance movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein invites us to sing or hum, and stretch, shake, twist, and bend to irresistible, toe-tapping music, both familiar and new, from the Big Bands, the 1950’s to the 80's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean. Together we will create community as we dance in our seats and or on our feet. If you've got a heartbeat, you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
Where: Dedham Public Library, 43 Church Street, Dedham, MA 02026
When: December 11, 2025, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00
Cost: Free
RSVP is required. Please contact Michaela Calderwood @ mcalderwood@minlib.net to register or telephone 781-751-9284 for more information.
The Memory Café at Dedham Public Library is a welcoming, interactive place for individuals and families living with memory changes. Come enjoy a light lunch, make new friends and participate in a fun, failure-free activity. A care partner must accompany guests who require personal care assistance. This program is sponsored in part by community partners.
Join us as dance movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein invites us to sing or hum, and stretch, shake, twist, and bend to irresistible, toe-tapping music, both familiar and new, from the Big Bands, the 1940’s to the 60's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean. Together we will create community as we dance in our seats and or on our feet. If you've got a heartbeat, you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
Where: Natick Senior Center, 117 E. Central St., Natick, MA 01760
When: November 20, 2025, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
RSVP is required. Please contact Debbie Budd, 508-647-6540 ext. 1906 to register or for more information.
The Meaningful Connections Memory Café is a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals living with memory loss and their care partners. Each month we will offer entertainment or an activity and a light lunch. Please join us.
Join us as dance movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein invites us to sing or hum, and stretch, shake, twist, and bend to irresistible, toe-tapping music, both familiar and new, from the Big Bands, the 1940’s to the 60's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean. Together we will create community as we dance in our seats and or on our feet. If you've got a heartbeat, you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
A 3-hour workshop on embodied connection in dementia care at the 60th Annual American Dance Therapy Association Conference co-led by Dr. Cecilia Fontanesi and myself. We will be addressing the role that dance/movement therapy plays in improving the quality of life for people with dementia when offered sensitively and by attuning to the individuals present, vitality being among the many benefits. As a neurobiologist, Dr. Fontanesi will also be articulating neuroscientific findings that support our empirical findings.
Where: Dedham Public Library, 43 Church Street, Dedham, MA 02026
When: October 9, 2025, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00
Cost: Free
RSVP is required. Please contact Brittany Tuttle @ btuttle.ddm@minlib.net to register or telephone 781-751-9284 for more information.
The Memory Café at Dedham Public Library is a welcoming, interactive place for individuals and families living with memory changes. Come enjoy a light lunch, make new friends and participate in a fun, failure-free activity. A care partner must accompany guests who require personal care assistance. This program is sponsored in part by community partners.
Join us as dance movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein invites us to sing or hum, and stretch, shake, twist, and bend to irresistible, toe-tapping music, both familiar and new, from the Big Bands, the 1940’s to the 60's, Broadway musicals, disco, and the Caribbean. Together we will create community as we dance in our seats and or on our feet. If you've got a heartbeat, you've got rhythm enough. No prior experience necessary.
Come by and visit Dance for Connection and Octaband at Dedham Square Circle’s Annual Health & Wellness Fair.
I’d love to chat with you and share the work that I do, dancing with people with dementia, educating the public about nonverbal communication with people with dementia, and the Octaband, a product that I created to encourage people with special needs to join in the fun and feel a sense of belonging. I will have Octabands available for sale.
This event is free and will have loads of information useful for older adults.
September 17, 8:30 - 10:30 AM EDT
I am excited to lead this webinar for Bui Tuyet Minh of Vietnam Dance/Movement Therapy on September 17. This is an introductory course designed especially to interest Vietnamese people in pursuing a career in dance/movement therapy.
Bui Tuyet Minh using the Octaband® at an inservice introducing doctors to dance therapy.
The theme of the webinar will be an intro to DMT and various aspects of self-care as learned from people I’ve worked with and from through my long career. Teaching methods will include playful movement interaction, discussion, a brief slide show, and Q & A.
This session is ideal for anyone interested in learning more about dance therapy.
Time Zones: 8:30 - 10:30 AM EDT
Link to register. Scroll down to register for the specific webinar.
