Empowering Future Generations
MsJay was honored with the Women of Excellence Award by the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce for her contributions to the community. She developed mentorship programs and work-study partnerships with local colleges, providing hands-on experience for aspiring dancers, while her D.I.P. (Dancing in Pumps) workshops in New York and Atlanta empower women to build confidence in their movement. Through her dedication to addressing societal issues like childhood obesity and mentoring future generations, MsJay has cemented her legacy as a transformative figure in the performing arts and her community.
Mentorship & Community Impact
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Founder
KYRA JOHNSON (MsJay)
MsJay is a visionary director and choreographer who transforms lives through the power of dance, education, and purpose-driven artistry. With passion rooted in community and excellence, she empowers the next generation to move boldly—on stage and in life.
A Foundation in Education and Mathematics
Kyra "MsJay" Johnson, a native of Freeport, Long Island, discovered her passion for teaching and mathematics early, graduating Summa Cum Laude from Marymount College of Fordham University with dual degrees, followed by an MSed in Mathematics from Iona College of New Rochelle. After six years as a successful educator, she was irresistibly drawn back to her first love—the performing arts, having trained at elite institutions like The Dance Theatre of Harlem and Alvin Ailey. This transition from classroom to stage cemented her legacy as a trailblazer, bridging education and the arts to leave a lasting impact on both fields.
A Performer from the Start
MsJay’s elite dance training began at just six years old, honing her craft at renowned institutions like The Dance Theatre of Harlem, Alvin Ailey, Joffrey Ballet, and Steps on Broadway, and by age 10, she was invited to study with the Dance Theatre of Harlem Dance Company as a pre-professional. She further expanded her talents into theater at 13, performing in off-Broadway plays such as The American Dream and Meeting in the Ladies Room. MsJay's artistry transcended borders, with a role in the 2009 film Step Up 3D and international tours to Barbados, Jamaica, Canada, and Trinidad, sharing her passion on stages worldwide.
A Life on Stage: Dance & Theater
Living E3
"Now unto Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think..."
New Beginnings has truly come a long way, and by the grace of God, we are growing every single day. It’s been an incredible 16 years serving the New Rochelle community, a journey that began with nothing but a dream to inspire aspiring dancers. What God has done with that dream is far beyond anything I could have ever imagined.
I have to give Him all the honor and praise because none of this would have been possible without His guidance, favor, and countless blessings. From our first steps to now, every challenge we’ve overcome, every life we’ve touched, and every victory we’ve celebrated — it’s all a testament to His goodness.
This journey is a reminder that when you place your vision in God’s hands, He will turn it into something greater than you ever dreamed.
- MsJay
Turning Passion into Legacy
Founding New Beginnings Center for the Performing Arts
In 2009, MsJay founded New Beginnings Center for the Performing Arts, LLC in New Rochelle, NY, merging her passion for dance and teaching to offer transformative experiences for young performers. The center quickly became a community cornerstone, participating in events like Memorial Day Celebrations, Arts and Dance Festivals, and performances for the mayor and other public officials, while also conducting workshops to raise awareness for causes like breast cancer. Under her leadership, the school expanded across New York City, with residencies in New Rochelle, Queens, Yonkers, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Manhattan, impacting countless lives through the performing arts.
