For 62 years, the Theatre and Dance Program at Nassau Community College (NCC) has been a beacon of artistic excellence and cultural vibrancy. A platform for education, performance, and personal growth, the program is now in jeopardy. Recently, the program has been systematically dismantled: essential courses are being removed from the curriculum, critical for students aiming to navigate the competitive fields of Theatre and Dance. Remember those moments when in a movie or theater/dance event opened your eyes to new possibilities?  Christina H. certainly does. As a Dance Major, Christina worked diligently to map out her academic journey at NCC, only to be met with the frustrating reality of cancelled courses. Her education, her future, hangs in limbo. "Required classes are being cancelled—again. I paid in full, built my hi schedule, and now I’m told I may not graduate on time. This is unprofessional and unethical," she shares.

Isaac Z. echoes Christina’s concerns, highlighting how crucial access to promised classes are for fulfilling degree requirements. "The lack of transparency and cancelled courses make it nearly impossible to complete degree requirements. We deserve access to the classes we were promised," Isaac insists. "Cutting productions denies future students the chance to experience this transformative education.” - Jennifer C., PTA Student & Former Professional Dancer. These personal stories illustrate a larger issue that urgently needs attention.

Why save this program? Because it transforms lives.  It's an opportunity for students like Christina, Isaac and Jennifer to connect, to express, and to achieve their dreams. Participating in these productions can indeed change lives-a sentiment shared by countless alumni. These award-winning programs have launched the careers of Billy Crystal,Jim Breuer, Broadway producers, screen and TV professionals, and countless others. It has also provided affordable access to world-class training for students who cannot attend costly conservatories. Eliminating Theatre and Dance program in Nassau County denies the next generation their opportunity. Theater, dance, and technical productions are not extracurricular-they’re required for majors and essential for transfer, professional portfolios, and career readiness. With New York’s performing arts industries generating $14 billion annually and sustaining thousands of jobs, eliminating this program undermines both students’ futures and the NY State's economy. We call on the NCC Administration, SUNY Board of Trustees, and New York State officials to: Reinstate all three majors-all required Theater, Dance, and      Technical courses Restore a full production schedule consistent with curriculum and industry standards Preserve NCC’s cultural and educational legacy for future generations The Arts are not expendable—they are essential.  Nassau Community College’s Theatre and Dance Program has been a pillar of education, culture, and community for over six decades. It must not be dismantled. You can be part of this change. Sign the petition - demand that Nassau Community College and SUNY leadership restore the Theatre and Dance Program and protect future of arts education in our community, Nassau County and NY State. Be Heard! Sign this petition -  and forward to all you know.  Thank you Enjoy! A message from Billy Crystal, Alumni and Students of Nassau County. https://youtu.be/5eTjgSORaSQ Success stories from our Alumni ! https://youtu.be/wA0WPlcqUd8?si=WAh8QbYVex5xEXKx