Downtown Pittsfield, Inc. is excited to welcome back Rhythmscape, a free outdoor summer dance series that transforms Downtown Pittsfield into a vibrant gathering place where music, movement, and culture come together. The series will take place on Dunham Mall on select Sunday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 PM throughout the summer. (Enter 100 North Street into your GPS for the location.)
Each Rhythmscape event features a different dance style led by talented local instructors, inviting participants to experience traditions and rhythms from around the world while celebrating the rich cultural fabric of the Pittsfield community. From Latin and Brazilian rhythms to other global dance forms, every session offers an opportunity to learn, connect, and move together.
Open to all ages and experience levels, Rhythmscape encourages everyone, whether stepping onto the dance floor for the first time or returning as an experienced dancer, to join in the celebration. No partner or previous dance experience is required.
More than a dance class, Rhythmscape is an invitation to build community. By bringing people together in a welcoming public space, the series fosters connection across cultures, generations, and backgrounds while highlighting the diversity that makes Pittsfield a vibrant place to live.
Through the universal language of dance, Rhythmscape celebrates the many stories, traditions, and communities that shape our city, creating joyful shared experiences that strengthen belonging and bring new energy to Downtown Pittsfield all summer long.
This series is supported by Downtown Pittsfield, Inc., Wandering Dance Festival, and Mill Town Foundation.
Schedule of Instructors:
Sunday, July 26: Sandra Zarate teaches Zumba®
Sunday, August 9: Soul Line Dancing with Berkshire Sole Society (Founded by Erica Shrader and Powered by Women of the Westside)
Sunday, August 23: Luana Dias David teaches Salsa
Sunday, September 6: Brazilian Day with the Quilombo Experience
Sunday, September 20: TBD
Sandra Zarate
Sandra Zarate is a Colombian Zumba® instructor with over 10 years of experience sharing her passion for dance and fitness with people of all ages and skill levels. Since 2013, she has been teaching Zumba® and holds multiple certifications, including Aqua Zumba, Zumba Sentao, Zumba Toning, Zumba Step, Zumba Gold, and Zumba Jr. & Kids.
Sandra loves what she does and finds great joy in helping her students reach their goals while having fun along the way. She believes that in today’s fast-paced and hyper-connected world, it’s essential to create moments to disconnect and focus on ourselves. Her classes are designed to be that space — a place to move, laugh, sweat, and feel alive.
Her mission is to cultivate a fun, energetic, and welcoming environment where everyone feels inspired to dance, express themselves, and enjoy the journey to better health.
Luana Dias David
Luana Dias David is a performing artist and choreographer based in the Berkshires. With over two decades of experience, Luana embodies a profound passion for dance and a steadfast commitment to cultural preservation and community engagement. Hailing from São Paulo, Brazil, Luana excels in various dance forms including Samba, Capoeira, Break dancing, Latin dance, Jazz, and Classic Ballet. Her rich cultural heritage is evident in her teaching and choreography, ensuring that every performance is an authentic blend of tradition and innovation.
Erica Shrader
Berkshire Sole Society is a Berkshire-based soul line dancing crew bringing together rhythm, movement, and community one step at a time. Founded by Erica Shrader and powered by Women of the Westside+, their meetups are packed with smooth steps, feel-good music, and unapologetic joy. Whether you’re a seasoned stepper or just learning your first slide, there’s always room for you on the dance floor. Come for the steps, stay for the vibe.