Internationally trained dancer, choreographer, and dance educator
Clifford Henry has returned to Sint Maarten to conduct a series of dance workshops
across the island, continuing his commitment to giving back to the community that
shaped his artistic journey. Born and raised on Sint Maarten, Henry began his dance
training at the National Institute of Arts (NIA), studying under respected teachers Clara
Reyes, Arlene Halley, Rudolph Davis, Peggy Oulerich, Jerry Vanterpool, and Eolia ”Bee-
Bee” Ada. His early foundation included ballet, modern, Horton technique, African
dance, hip-hop, jazz, and other movement forms that would later influence his
multidisciplinary approach to dance education. Mr. Henry also studied Capoeira under
the guidance of Tyrone Phelipa.
In 2017, Henry left Sint Maarten after receiving a Talent Scholarship from the Ministry of
Education, Culture, Youth and Sport (MECYS) to pursue professional studies at the
Amsterdam Hogeschool voor de Kunsten (AHK) in the Netherlands. He later received a
second MECYS Talent Scholarship during his third year, supporting his transition into his
final year of study.
Henry graduated in 2021 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Dance Education, completing four
years of intensive training. Throughout his studies at AHK, he remained actively engaged
as a teacher and guest instructor, leading dance workshops, lectures, and educational
sessions on various dance forms.
These experiences deepened his understanding of dance not only as movement, but as
a process of connection, adaptation, discipline, and personal development.
“Dance is more than just flowing movement,” says Henry. “It’s about
awareness—knowing when to stop, when to go, and how to connect the body, mind,
and intention. That understanding continues to evolve.”
Following his graduation, Henry expanded his professional expertise by enrolling in
Physiotherapy at the University of Applied Sciences in Amsterdam, beginning his studies
in 2022. His academic journey in physiotherapy expected to conclude in 2026—has
allowed him to research and explore the human body, muscle function, and movement
mechanics, further enriching his approach to dance training and injury prevention.
Alongside his academic and artistic pursuits, Henry also works as a Hospitality Manager
at Corendon Hotel near Schiphol Airport, balancing leadership responsibilities with his
passion for the arts. He is additionally active as a Capoeira instructor, continuing to train
and attend workshops whenever possible.
During his visit to Sint Maarten, Henry led multiple workshops at local dance schools,
sharing international knowledge, technical skills, and inspiration with young dancers. His
return represents not only a homecoming, but a meaningful investment in the island’s
cultural and artistic future.
“I am forever grateful for my teachers, family, and friends who supported me every step
of the way,” Henry adds. “Giving back to Sint Maarten through dance is one of the most
rewarding experiences of my life.”