A dance troop from the Family Residences and Essential Enterprises held a performance in East Islip showcasing the skills of dancers with developmental disabilities.

The recital was choreographed by dancers from the Dance Workshop of Deer Park and took place at the Bayway Arts Center.

Organizers say it was the first event of its kind to feature dancers with developmental disabilities alongside trained dancers.

“We are grateful to all the dancers for participating as well as the community for coming out. This is really about equity and equality. Showing the world that we can all do this. We are all one community. This is huge for the individuals we serve,” said FREE’s vice president, Keith Scott.

“It's been really exciting to practice with them and knowing that we're going to all be together on stage,” said the Dance Workshop of Deer Park’s Arianna Magali.

The students involved in the program say they practiced for six months and were excited to taking the stage.

“I just feel happy, excited and proud of myself,” said Jason Greenberg, who performed a solo and designed a T-shirt for the event.

“Dancing is my life. Dancing is my passion, it's my inspiration,” said Leah Saitta of the FREE Dance Troupe.

Families and audience members were also thrilled to see the show.

“It's great to see my grandson up there on stage. It's wonderful,” said Plainview resident Louis Huertas.

“Absolutely fantastic,” said Joe Huertas of Rockland County. “They did a great job.”