A Tap Dance Lineage
At Art Beat Dance Center, the spirit of tap is alive and thriving. Tap has a special place in my heart and in everything we do here, and that’s partly because I’m lucky enough to have learned from some of the greatest tap dancers of all time. This studio is deeply connected to tap's rich history, and I’m thrilled to share that legacy with each of our students.
Mentorship from Tap Legends
Two of my most influential mentors were
Lloyd Storey and Sarah Petronio. Lloyd Storey, who was a protégé of Bill "Bojangles" Robinson—the man often called the father of tap—was pivotal in my development as a dancer. He didn’t just teach me steps; he shared the depth and artistry that goes into this form.
I also had the incredible privilege of working with Sarah Petronio, a protégé of the legendary Jimmy Slyde. Slyde’s smooth, rhythmic style is iconic, and through Sarah, I absorbed his love for improvisation, musicality, and rhythm.
These mentors connected me to the very roots of tap, which is something I get to share with our students every day, allowing them to be part of a legacy that stretches back through generations.
Honoring Dianne Walker and the Legacy of Leon Collins
My commitment to the history of tap also includes honoring two other icons: Dianne Walker, known as “Lady Di,” and her mentor, Leon Collins. Collins was famous for his intricate rhythms and musicality, and his work has been hugely influential in tap’s evolution.
Through the Leon Collins Preservation Project here at Art Beat, I help pass down his techniques and style to our students, ensuring that these vibrant traditions continue to thrive.
Why Tap Dance is for Everyone
Tap is such an inclusive art form—it’s truly a universal language of rhythm, and I believe anyone can enjoy it. My mentors taught me that tap is for everyone, and that philosophy guides me as I teach. Whether you’re a beginner, an advanced dancer, or somewhere in between, there’s no pressure to be perfect. It’s all about joy, rhythm, and the music. At Art Beat, we dance for the love of it and for the chance to connect with a truly remarkable tradition.
Tap Dance at Art Beat: Preserving and Expanding the Legacy
From our youngest beginners to our advanced adults, every dancer at Art Beat is part of tap’s ongoing story. My mentors have inspired me to make sure every class honors this art form’s history and its improvisational, rhythm-based roots. That inspiration also influences our performances, guest artist visits, and even the way we structure our classes—allowing each dancer to grow confidently and with a genuine love for tap.
Creating the Future of Tap Dance
While preserving tap’s past is essential to me, I’m just as passionate about its future. At Art Beat, we encourage students to explore their creativity and expression through tap, making it a part of their own stories. I want our dancers to know the legacy they’re connected to, but I also want them to feel free to contribute their own voices to tap’s evolution.
Every class at Art Beat is more than a dance lesson—it’s a chance to be part of something that spans generations. When you or your child take a class at Art Beat, you’re stepping into a tradition of rhythm, creativity, and community that has been passed down through the ages—and you’re becoming part of that legacy.
Why Art Beat Is the Best Place to Learn Tap Dance
Art Beat is more than just a place to learn steps; it’s a place to connect to the heart and soul of tap. My mentors, my journey, and my commitment to both honoring and advancing this art form make Art Beat a special place to dance. Tap isn’t just about the sound of your feet—it’s about connecting with history, expressing yourself through rhythm, and joining a supportive community that loves this unique art form.
Here at Art Beat, we welcome everyone with open arms, no matter their age or skill level. So, whether you're just beginning your tap journey or looking to deepen your skills, Art Beat Dance Center offers a place where rhythm, history, and creativity come together to create a truly enriching experience for all dancers.
Comments