Dancers of EDLA with Kaufman alum Justin Epstein.

By Hannah Doerr

On Dec. 6, 2025, USC Kaufman welcomed 50 students from Everybody Dance LA! (EDLA) to campus for the annual USC Kaufman Day of Dance. Students participated in workshops led by Kaufman alumni and watched current BFA students perform repertory by world-renowned choreographers.

Justin Epstein ’19 taught a contemporary class to begin the day, followed by a hip-hop class taught by Alexander Thomas ’25. The workshops gave EDLA students the opportunity to learn from working artists and experience the world-class environment of USC. After the hourlong classes, dancers informally showcased the choreography they had learned.

Following the workshops, EDLA students enjoyed lunch in the Kaufman courtyard alongside several Kaufman BFA students, who shared their experiences at the school and answered questions. The day concluded at the Bing Theatre, where EDLA students watched Kaufman’s fall BFA showcase.

The collaboration offered EDLA students a glimpse into life at Kaufman, from learning from alumni and connecting with current students to seeing repertory performed onstage.

Kaufman continues to partner with EDLA as part of its commitment to community engagement. EDLA provides high-quality dance education to students in low-income areas of Los Angeles. Its programs help transform lives and communities by cultivating collaboration, discipline, and self-expression in young dancers.

Those interested in supporting Kaufman and collaborations like this one may contact Natasha Liu, director of individual giving, at natasha.liu@usc.edu for more information.

This partnership was made possible by Kaufman Board of Councilors member Charlene Achki Repko.