Divine Rhythm News>
Divine Rhythm News

May 24, 2008

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---------------------- 
 
IN THIS ISSUE: 
 
*Celebrate Tap Dance Day! Celebrate Life!* 
 
*DRP ARTISTS* 
 
- Camaradas & Divine Rhythm Productions present 
OPEN FLOOR - OPEN MIC NIGHT 
-Kathak Master Class w/ Pandit Chitresh Das (Special 
Participation by Jason Samuels Smith) 
-Tap Extravaganza 
-Jason Samuels Smith – In the News! 
-LA TAP FEST registration is OPEN - www.latapfest.com 
- JA's Philly TAP Challenge '08"ON FIRE!" On Sale NOW!!! 
 
*EAST COAST* 
- Tap Master Dr. Jimmy Slyde Memorial Services Info - May 
28, 2008  
-Savion Glover and NJ Tap Ensemble Celebrate on May 25th at 
Newark Symphony Hall 
-Tap Extravaganza May 25th 2008 
-Broadway Underground Monday, June 2nd 
-WILLIAM B. JOHNSON & DRUMADICS PERFORM IN UPTOWN/DOWNTOWN 
-Support ATDF, Support Tap Dance - www.atdf.org 
Signature Class: SNAP, POP & LOCK -Organic New York City 
Style Hip Hop! 
-Showbiz Expo in NYC 
-Summer Rhythm Intensive with Tap Kids 
-OPPORTUNITY: TAP KIDS TOUR UK/HOLLAND TAP DANCERS AGES 
16-21 
 
*MIDWEST* 
-All Things Chi featuring M.A.D.D. Rhythms, FootworKINGz 
and The National Steppers Society at The Harold Washington 
Library – Footage 
-OPPORTUNITY: youngARTS 2009 
 
 
*WEST COAST* 
-California Tap Day w/ Roxanne Butterfly 
-National Tap Dance Day Celebration at Debbie Allen Dance 
Academy 
- 2nd Annual Choreography Media Honors! 
 
 
*WORLD-WIDE* 
 
-Remembering Dr. Jimmy Slyde –  
-News and events from: Roxane Butterfly, Leela Petronio, 
Grant Swift 
 
*DRP ARTISTS * 
NEWS UPDATES & EVENTS 
----------------------------------------------------- 
 
========================== 
 
Camaradas & Divine Rhythm Productions present 
OPEN FLOOR - OPEN MIC NIGHT 
in Honor of National Tap Dance Day! 
Hosted by Critically Acclaimed Tap Dance/Actress 
DORMESHIA SUMBRY-EDWARDS 
Critically Acclaimed Tap Dancer & Actress 
 
DATE: Monday, May 26th 
TIME: 8pm until 11:30pm 
 
Enjoy an energetic evening with NYC's finest song & dance 
featuring tap dancers accompanied by a live Jazz band. 
 
Cover Charge: $7 
Drinks and Food for purchase...kitchen open late! 
 
Camaradas El Barrio 
2241 First Avenue & 115th street, NYC 10029 
(212)348-2703 
www.camaradaselbarrio.com 
 
Directions 
CAMARADAS el barrio is located on 2241 First Avenue, near 
the corner of 115 Street, in the Spanish Harlem (El Barrio) 
section of New York City. 
By public transportation, you can take the No. 6 subway to 
116 Street, or any local bus traveling on the East Side of 
Manhattan (116 Street is a Limited Stop). 
By car, the Triborough Bridge is usually the fastest way to 
Spanish Harlem if you are coming from Queens or Long 
Island. From the Bronx or Upstate, the Willis Avenue Bridge 
connects directly to Spanish Harlem, just a few blocks 
North of CAMARADAS. From Uptown Manhattan, the FDR Drive 
has exits on 116, 106 and 96 Streets. From Downtown 
Manhattan, you can take the FDR Drive North to 96 Street. 
At First Avenue, you can make a right turn and continue to 
travel North – CAMARADAS will be on your left as you 
approach 115 Street. 
================================= 
 
Divine Rhythm Productions & American Tap Dance Foundation 
present 
 
Pandit Chitresh Das 
Renowned Master of Kathak 
 
(Special participation by Jason Samuels Smith) 
 
Monday, May 26th 
6:00 - 8:00 pm 
$30...limited space 
Pre registration is suggested 
 
This master class is specifically for Kathak and Tap 
students and will accommodate multiple levels, as Pandit 
Das makes the class accessible for beginners and 
challenging for more advanced students. 
 
Jason Samuels Smith will be in attendance and he and Pandit 
Das will end the class by giving a demonstration of how 
these two great artists communicate through their deep 
understanding of their respective traditions. 
 
"The Master Class with Pandit Chitresh Das will be 
spiritually enlightening and technically challenging for 
people of all walks of life." 
Jason Samuels Smith 
 
================================= 
 
Don’t Miss: 
 
Tap Extravaganza 
May 25, 2008 at 7:00 pm 
The Tap City Youth Ensemble will be performing in a line-up 
with Dance Alumni from Oklahoma City University, Michelle 
Dorrance, Rod Ferrone, DeWitt Fleming, Mable Lee and her 
Dancing Ladies, Michela Marino Lerman, Rhythmutation, Chris 
Scott Company, Jason Samuels Smith,The Peggy Spina Tap 
Company. Schedule Permitting: Savion Glover, Jimmy Slyde 
 
Location: 
Haft Auditorium at Fashion Institute of Technology 
227 West 27th St., New York City 
 
Tickets: 
$68, $55, $45, $25 
Click here to purchase! 
 
You may contact questions@nytap.org with any questions. 
================================= 
 
Coverage on Jason Samuels Smith from  
Festival Encore’s Press Conferences in Canada: 
 
http://www.lhebdojournal.com/article-214524-De-la-danse-pour-tous-les-gouts.html 
 
http://www.cbc.ca/radionoonmontreal/ 
 
http://tva.canoe.com/emissions/salutbonjour/manchette/extrait.html 
(Select Extract of "Mercredi 21 mai" titled "Tap Dance!") 
------------ 
 
Also, check out Jason Samuels Smith in the 25th Anniversary 
Issue (Spring 2008) of the Dance USA Journal; Mind of the 
Artist 
================================= 
 
Debbie Allen Dance Academy presents... 
The 6th Annual 
LA TAP FESTIVAL 
Register Online Today and Save! 
August 4-9, 2008 
 
www.latapfest.com 
 
Debbie Allen Dance Academy presents 
6th Annual 2008 Los Angeles Tap Festival 
Director Jason Samuels Smith, Co-Director Chloe Arnold 
 
6 days, world-renowned faculty, 85 classes, jam sessions, 
student showcase, The cutting contest, and The concert - 
New classes, programs, and specials 
 
All Levels and ages are welcome! Pre-Register and Save! 
Attracting students from over 35 states and 8 countries. 
 
Faculty: Jason Samuels Smith, Chloe Arnold, Dianne Walker, 
Arthur Duncan, Derick Grant, Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards, and 
many more... 
 
CONTACT US: 
310-280-9145 
310-936-7989 
latapfest@gmail.com 
WWW.LATAPFEST.COM 
================================= 
 
JA's Philly TAP Challenge '08"ON FIRE!" On Sale NOW!!! 
Announcing Special rates for Jaye Allison's Philly TAP 
Challenge '08 "ON FIRE!" 
Available 12:00am, Tuesday May 6th! 
 
Mail-in Deadline – June 10th 2008 
 
All Day Dance Pass Now Available 
 
Ages 8-12 $50. Ages 13 and up $65. 
 
This value package is available online only at 
behinddoors.biz (through paypal and mail in checks 
accepted) 
 
You will receive the pass and the up to date schedule in 
the mail. 
2 Special Kids classes (8-12 yrs) each day (*), plus a 
variety pack of dance workshops to choose. 
 
Thursday - The Kimmel Center's Innovation Studio (KCIS) or 
Merck Education Studio (KCME) 
KCIS - morning... 10a Stretch Class (Carla Krochak) – 
10:30a Tap (Rochelle Haines) - *11:30a KidsJazz (Jaye 
Allison) 
KCME – 11:40p Shim Sham (Corinne Karon) – 12:50pTap History 
discussion / lunch break 
KCIS- afterlunch... *2p Hip Hop 'Campbelllocking'( Dennis 
Danehy) 
 
Friday – The Arts Bank Rehearsal Hall (ABRH) 
ABRH - morning... 10:15a Irish Step Dance (Corinne Karon) – 
11:30a Flamenco (Anna Castellanos) 
afterlunch... 2:20p Improvisation and Challenge (Robert 
Burden Jr.) – 3:30p African (Cachet Ivey) 
 
Friday – Kimmel Center Innovation Studio (KCIS) or Merck 
Education Studio (KCME) 
KCIS - morning... 10a Stretch Class (Carla Krochak) – 
10:40a Tap (Jaye Allison) – 11:50 Tap (Karen Callaway 
Williams) 
KCME – afternoon... 1pm Tap History discussion / Lunch 
Break – 2:10p Kids Tap (Pamela Hetherington) 
KCIS- afterlunch...3:30p Tap (Dianne Walker) 
 
Saturday – The Arts Bank Rehearsal Hall (ABRH) or Arts Bank 
Stage (ABS) 
ABRH - morning...9:45a-Stretch Class (Darrell Waytes) – 
10:25a Tap (Chloe Arnold) –11:45a Tap (Ali Bradley) 
afterlunch... 1:50p Campbelllocking (Dennis Danehy) – 3p 
Tap (Dormeshia Sumbrey Edwards) 
ABS - morning...10:30a Jazz (Jaye Allison) 11:40a GQ Step 
(Rennie Harris) 12:40p Tap History Roundtable / Lunch 
afterlunch... 2pTap (Jason Samuels Smith) –3:30p Salsa 
(Buster Adams) 
 
Peace, 
Jaye Allison 
Founding Director, New LEJA Dances & Philly TAP Challenge 
"ON FIRE!" 
 
 
From "Akeelah and the Bee", Marianne Williamson, A Return 
to Love (from chapter 'Personal Power') "Our deepest fear 
is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we 
are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our 
darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'who am 
I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, 
who are you not to be? There is nothing enlightened about 
shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around 
you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. And as we 
let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people 
permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own 
fear, our presence automatically liberates others." 
 
================================= 
*EAST COAST * 
NEWS UPDATES & EVENTS 
 
Courtesy of TapLegacy.org: 
 
Here is the information regarding services for our beloved 
Dr. Jimmy Slyde. 
 
Wednesday, May 28, 2008 
Union Methodist Church 
485 Columbus Avenue 
Boston, MA 02118 
 
Viewing - 11am 
 
Services will begin at approximately - 12pm 
 
Burial to follow 
 
Post-Burial Reception - Limited attendance so please RSVP. 
 
NOTE: All services open to the public, please RSVP if you 
plan to attend the Reception by calling 617-594-7533. 
 
 
================== 
 
Savion Glover Productions and NJTAP Dance Ensemble 
Celebrate 
 
National Tap Dance Day 2008 
 
Going Beyond the Combination 
 
Sunday, May 25, 2008 1pm - 7pm 
 
Newark Symphony Hall 
The Newark Stage 2nd Floor 
 
As America celebrates the anniversary of the birth of Bill 
"Bojangles" Robinson on May 25th, Tony Award winning 
choreographer, Savion Glover and Deborah Mitchell, Artistic 
Director of NJTAP Dance Ensemble invite you to "go beyond 
the combination". Enjoy a full day's celebration of this 
wonderful American art form. 
 
3 Events of the Day! (ages 12 and older) 
Hear Oral Histories from NJ tap dancers, take a class with 
Savion Glover and close the day with a live performance of 
excerpts from Broadway's finest tap shows including Black 
and Blue, Noise Funk and Jelly's Last Jam!  
 
$30 for all 3 events/$10 for any 1 event 
 
Proceeds to benefit the programs of 
NJTAP Dance Ensemble and Savion Glover Productions 
 
For Tickets in Advance 
www.saviongloverproductions.com 
 
Tickets at the Door 
Cash or Checks 
Checks payable to New Jersey Tap Ensemble 
 
NEW JERSEY CELEBRATES TAP DANCE! 
====================== 
 
Sunday, May 25, 2008, 7pm 
 
Live! One Night Only! 
 
TAP 
Extravaganza 2008® 
 
Fashion Institute of Technology - Haft Auditorium 
227 West 27th Street (bet. 7th & 8th Avenues) NYC 
 
Be Part of Tap History as We Award 3 People Who 
Helped Make New York The Tap Capital of the World. 
 
This year's Flo-Bert Honorees for Life Achievement are:  
 
Åö Jean Bach Åö 
Produced famous jazz movie, "A Great Day in 
Harlem," made possible first Celebration of 
National Tap Dance Day in New York 
 
 
Åö Maurice Hines Åö 
Star of Broadway Stage, Screen and TV. 
Famous tap team "Hines, Hines and Dad." 
Noted, Creator, Choreographer and Director 
 
 
Åö Peggy Spina Åö 
Artistic Director of her tap company 
Choreographer, Performer, Teacher 
Adjunct Professor, Tap, Marymount Manhattan College 
 
 
The Evening's Performers 
(alphabetical) 
Michelle Dorrance 
Rod Ferrone 
DeWitt Fleming, Jr. 
Savion Glover* 
Mable Lee and Her Dancing Ladies 
Michela Marino Lerman 
The Oklahoma City University Dancers 
Rhythmutation 
The Chris Scott Dancers 
Jason Samuels Smith with Special Guests -Pandit Chitresh 
Das, JoJo Smith 
Peggy Spina Tap Company 
Tap City Youth Ensemble 
*schedule permitting 
 
Music by the The Frank Owens Trio 
Frank Owens piano Bernice Brooks drums Lisle Atkinson bass 
 
Tickets: $68, $55, $45, $25 
 
Åú Order by credit card: 212-279-4200 or use website: 
www.ticketcentral.com 
 
Åú Visit Ticket Central Box Office: 
416 W. 42nd Street (bet. 9th and 10th Aves.) 
 
Tap Extravaganza is the publication of the New York 
Committee to Celebrate 
National Tap Dance Day a program of Flo-Bert Ltd. Flo-Bert 
is fiscally 
overseen by the New York Foundation For the Arts, A New 
York State 
Not-for-Profit Organization, published irregularly. The 
New York Foundation 
of the Arts is located at 155 Sixth Avenue, 6th Floor, New 
York, NY 10013. 
Reply 
 
Forward 
 
 
======================= 
 
BROADWAY UNDERGROUND® 
Monday June 2 
8:00pm 
B.B. King Blues Club and Grill-237 West 42nd Street -NYC 
 
Promo Video: www.broadwayunderground.org 
TICKETS 
WWW.GOLDSTAR.COM ($12) 
WWW.TICKETMASTER.COM 
or 
$25 at the door 
================================= 
 
 
WILLIAM B. JOHNSON & DRUMADICS PERFORM IN UPTOWN/DOWNTOWN 
 
UPTOWN/DOWNTOWN 
TWO MULTIDISCIPLINARY EVENINGS OF PERFORMANCE 
Friday, May 30, 2008 and Saturday, May 31, 2008 @ 7:30pm 
 
For eight weeks this spring Lower Manhattan Cultural 
Council, Harlem Arts Alliance, and The Field brought 
together a group of artists, five from "uptown," five from 
"downtown," to developing short works for performance. On 
May 30 and 31 these cross-town artists will be performing 
their works in vibrant venues both up and downtown! Both 
performances will be followed by a discussion with the 
artists. 
 
Uptown/Downtown Artists: Ashley Byler - Vienna Carroll - 
Laylage Courie - Naomi Goldberg Haas - William B. Johnson 
- Lulu Lolo - Jody Oberfelder - Connie Perry - Elke 
Rindfleisch - Natasa Trifan 
 
Tickets $10 at the box office, available night of 
performance 
 
Friday, May 30, 2008, 7:30pm 
The Gatehouse at Harlem Stage 
150 Convent Avenue, New York, NY 10031 
 
Saturday, May 31, 2008, 7:30pm 
Dance New Amsterdam (DNA) 
280 Broadway, New York, NY 10007 
(Entrance on Chambers Street) 
 
For more information visit: Uptown/Downtown (click here) 
DRUMADICS at B.B. KING BLUES CLUB and GRILL (Monday, June 
2)  
Come check out Drumadics live in their third performance in 
Broadway Underground 
 
at B.B. King Blues Club and Grill on Monday, June 2, 2008 
at 8pm.  
237 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036 
 
For ticket information visit Broadway Underground (click 
here) 
 
Remember! 
You can check me out with Drumadics, the inspiration for my 
new production, Wednesday - Saturday at Times Square, 42nd 
Street/Port Authority, Union Square or 34th Street, on an 
ongoing rotating schedule. 
 
Become familiar and become a part of the movement! 
 
Respectfully, 
 
William B. Johnson 
 
http://www.littlebillyent.org 
================== 
 
Support ATDF, Support Tap Dance! 
 
We are excited to announce the creation of an American Tap 
Dance Foundation Parent Volunteer Committee! 
 
This committee is launching with a telethon to help us meet 
and exceed this year's fundraising challenge so we can 
continue to keep our youth programs accessible regardless 
of family income. 
 
Everything we raise over $100,000 and up to $130,000 will 
be matched dollar for dollar. All proceeds will benefit the 
Gregory Hines Youth Scholarship Fund.  
 
The challenge extends to ALL PLEDGES AND CONTRIBUTIONS from 
now to the end of the fiscal year - June 30, 2008. 
 
When you receive a call this week, please consider 
participating in this exciting challenge: ANY DONATION of 
ANY AMOUNT will have twice the impact and double the 
importance in helping us meet our challenge! 
 
Thank you in advance for your participation and ongoing 
support of ATDF. 
 
Tony Waag 
 
Executive & Artistic Director 
 
To Donate or find out more information, please visit: 
www.atdf.org 
================== 
 
Join SnapShot & WandeePOP in their 
 
'Signature Class ' 
 
SNAP, POP & LOCK 
 
Organic New York City Style Hip Hop! 
 
'Most pop-culture authorities place the origins of hip-hop 
dance in early-1970s New York. So we've had at least 30 
years to learn the techniques. Still haven't mastered the 
intricacies of breaking, freestyle, or boogaloo? You might 
register for Snap, Pop & Lock at the Alvin Ailey Extension' 
 
-Village Voice  
SP&L logo 
Offering Hip Hop & FunkStyles Education & Dance Groove 
Choreography with injury preventitive strength and 
conditioning moves that will improve your dance skills.  
Learn the Basics to making you a stronger popper, better 
party dancer, more confidence to freestyle and Nutrional 
tips to improve your well being. 
 
HIP HOP was created in the STREETS not in the STUDIOS!  
 
*Thursdays at 8pm/ADVANCED Beginner 
*Saturdays at 4pm/ABSOLUTE Beginner 
 
$16 per class 
16yrs and over 
 
The Ailey Extension@ 
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater 
The Joan Weill Center for Dance 
405 West 55th Street (at 9th Avenue) 
New York, NY 10019 
212-405-9000 ph 
 
What is Snap, Pop & Lock? 
*A Hip Hop Dance Class teaching Organic NYC Style Party 
Dance Moves with a touch of Current Hip Hop Energy. Plus, 
Injury Prevention & Health and Wellness tips from a 
Certified Personal Trainer and Life-Style Wellness Coach. 
 
SP&L was created to teach about the Culture of Hip-Hop and 
the Elements that keep this Culture Unique. All of our 
knowledge comes straight from the source and pioneers.  
 
Learn the foundation of classic moves such as: Jason, Mona 
Lisa, Bill Cosby, James Brown, The Wop, Smerf, Patty Duke, 
Alf, Kid n' Play, RoofTop, Popping & Locking combos, 
Drills, Top Rock, Bronx Freestyle Latin Rocking and more. 
===================== 
 
Memorial Tribute for Jazz Pianist Patti Bown 
 
Sunday June 8th 2008 7pm 
St. Peters Church 
54th and Lexington 
 
Patti Bown, 76, Lit Up Seattle's Jazz Scene 
 
FROM: The Seattle Times (March 22nd) ~ 
Paul de Barros, Jazz Critic 
 
Patti Bown, an idiosyncratic, outspoken, versatile pianist 
who came up with Quincy Jones on Seattle's Jackson Street 
jazz scene in the late '40s and became nationally famous, 
died Sunday from complications from diabetes and kidney 
failure. 
 
She was 76 years old. 
 
Ironically, Miss Bown died in Pennsylvania the same day 
Jones was in Seattle, eulogizing two other musicians of his 
generation Charlie Taylor and Floyd Standifer at the 
Northwest African American Museum opening concert. 
 
A characteristic quote from Miss Bown is displayed at the 
museum: 
 
"When I walked home from school, I passed the pool parlor 
and the Mardi Gras and they always had jazz playing. My 
mother was saying `No!' but the music was sensuous and it 
said, `Yes!' " 
 
Born Patricia Anne Bown in Seattle in 1931, Bown was one 
of five daughters and two sons raised in the Central 
District 
by Augustus and Edith Bown, who moved to Seattle in 1921. 
 
Music and culture were central to her upbringing. Her 
mother 
took her see Marian Anderson, Katherine Dunham and Arthur 
Rubenstein, and the Bown household was known for its 
weekend "at-homes," where people played music, and 
discussed books and politics. 
 
Miss Bown's sister, Edith Mary Valentine, became a concert 
pianist in an era when it was difficult, if not impossible, 
for 
African Americans to enter the classical field. Millie 
Russell, 
another sister, recalled Patti at 3 years old astonishing 
their 
parents by copying on the piano what she heard Duke 
Ellington play on the radio. 
 
"I was the only one of the five girls who didn't have 
perfect 
pitch," said Russell. 
 
Miss Bown's sister Augie Walker recalled Edith Mary and 
Patti fighting over who would get to practice at the family 
piano. 
 
"They'd be pushing on each other, both sitting on the stool 
and pretty soon the stool would break," she said. "My 
mother 
bought three stools in one year." 
 
Though Mrs. Bown played blues piano herself, she forbade 
Patti from patronizing jazz clubs. 
 
"She'd tell Mama she was going to visit our neighbor, then 
go 
out play in those places," recalled Walker. "Sometimes, if 
Mama found out, she'd lock the door and leave Patti out 
there 
for half an hour." 
 
One of Miss Bown's informal jazz tutors was Ray Charles, 
whom she credited with teaching her how to accompany 
soloists. 
 
In 1949, Miss Bown won a music scholarship to Seattle 
University, and in 1952 she performed with the Seattle 
Symphony. She later transferred to the University of 
Washington, then moved to New York in 1955. Because of 
her excellent sight-reading and improvising skills, she was 
soon in demand in recording studios, which led to her 
extensive discography (sessions with Dinah Washington, 
Billy Eckstine, Gene Ammons, Oscar Brown Jr., Jimmy 
Rushing and Jones himself). 
 
Miss Bown recorded an album as a leader in 1958, "Patti 
Bown Plays Big Piano" (Columbia), and the following year 
formed a trio that included drummer Ed Shaughnessy, of 
Johnny Carson's "Tonight Show" band fame. She later 
toured Europe for eight months with Jones' big band. 
 
A flamboyant, opinionated woman who wore outrageous hats 
and brooked no contradiction, Miss Bown often found 
herself at odds with others though she could be charming 
and 
funny, as well. 
 
"She was overbearing and spoiled," recalled her sister 
Russell, 
"but she was brilliant." 
 
Miss Bown lived the last 37 years at the Westbeth Artist 
Housing 
complex in Greenwich Village, and for many years was a 
fixture 
at the Village Gate nightclub. She played in an 
unpredictable, 
virtuosic and eclectic style that stretched from Fats 
Waller stride 
to avant-garde abstraction. 
 
The late Whitney Balliett, jazz critic for The New Yorker, 
once 
described a Miss Bown solo as "an eight-minute lesson in 
how 
to make a piece of improvisation so tight and complex it 
would 
supply a dozen soloists for a week." 
 
Miss Bown occasionally returned to Seattle to perform, 
notably 
at Jazz Alley, the New Orleans Creole Restaurant and at the 
Museum of History & Industry, in 1993. 
 
According to Pawnee Sills, a close friend who lived in her 
building, Miss Bown had been "homebound," the last seven or 
eight years, unable to walk because of her weight and poor 
circulation. Still, in 2006 she received the Mary Lou 
Williams 
Women in Jazz Festival Award, and last year the Jazz 
Foundation of America, which assisted Miss Bown the last 
years of her life, presented her at its annual gala at the 
Apollo 
Theatre, where she received a standing ovation. 
 
She moved to a New York nursing home last November, then 
to one in Media, Pa., where she died. 
 
Miss Bown never married but had one son, the late Tony 
Bown. 
She is survived by sisters Edith Mary Valentine, Augie 
Walker 
and Millie Russell, and brother David Bown. 
================================= 
 
OPPORTUNITY: 
 
BE AN EXHIBITOR AT THE NEXT... 
 
Show Biz Expo 
 
SEPTEMBER 21, 2008 @ HILTON, NEW YORK CITY 
 
10,000+ 
 
ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS 
 
1 HUGE EVENT 
 
VISIT US ONLINE FOR MORE INFO & 
 
TO BOOK YOUR EXHIBITOR SPACE 
 
 
 
TheShowBizExpo.com 
 
or call us today at 212.404.2345 
==================== 
 
OPPORTUNITY: 
PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD! 
 
 
TAP KIDS TOUR UK/HOLLAND TAP DANCERS AGES 16-21 
New York Stage Originals is accepting resumes for current 
positions and future replacements for the international 
touring company of “TAP KIDS”. Lisa Hopkins, 
director/chorographer. Seeking exceptional rhythm tap 
dancers with jazz dance training, and great personalities 
who improvise. Must also be quick at learning choreography. 
Basketball skills and acting also a plus. All ethnicities 
encouraged to apply. 
Dancers do not have to live in NYC area but selected 
dancers must be able to come to live audition in June or 
July. 
 
Interested dancers please e-mail bio and pictures 
immediately to thetapkids@aol.com or mail to: 
NYSO Casting 
Att: TAP KIDS 
154 Prospect Pkwy 
Burlington, VT 05401 
================================= 
 
9th Annual SUMMER RHYTHM INTENSIVE 
JULY 20-26th TARRYTOWN, NY 
 
The Tap Kids Rhythm Intensive is a one of a kind program 
designed to challenge and inspire talented young tap 
dancers age 9-21. Each year up to 75 dancers are chosen to 
take part in the Tap Kids Rhythm Intensive offers 
unsurpassed training with some of the nation's finest tap 
masters. Daily classes in a wide variety of styles as well 
as African drumming, Improvisation and Repertoire. All Tap 
Kids will perform in the 9th Annual Tap Kids Showcase 
Performance at the historic Tarrytown Music Hall as well as 
have an opportunity to work with the cast and creators of 
the popular national touring show "Tap Kids". All dancers 
will have the opportunity to learn and perform new original 
choreography by worldclass TK Faculty. 
 
Tap Kid Jumping Application Deadline June 15th 
 
Parents say: 
 
"We wanted to pass on our appreciation to you for this 
program. It's such a wonderful change from 
competitions/conventions and this experience is like no 
other. With our daughter's love for tap, Tap Kids 
continues to inspire her to continue with her passion." 
 
"You certainly went the extra mile to create a special 
environment for all those talented kids."  
 
"The atmosphere is so exciting and electric, and my 
daughter is having the time of her life." 
 
"Our son had an awesome experience in Tarrytown. We really 
appreciated the "real world" concept. It far surpassed the 
traditional convention/workshop experience. " 
 
Dancers say: 
 
"The classes were awesome! I was very proud to be a big 
part of TK, it was an honor. The friendships I made at TK 
will last a lifetime....so will the memories. I can't wait 
to see you again...." 
 
"I had the best time! It was such a wonderful experience! I 
just got the tape about 2 days ago and I have already 
watched it like 15 times! " 
 
"Not only did I meet tons of new friends and have the time 
of my life, I learned life skills that will help me not 
only with my tapping, but also in my daily life. A guest 
teacher at my studio said he said he noticed that I picked 
things up easier than last year, I'm sure it was from what 
all I learned at Tap Kids!" 
 
 
THE 2008 OFFICIAL TK HOTEL IS THE HAMPTON INN 
APPLICATIONS ON LINE: 
www.tapkids.com 
 
 
Tap Kids TK Logo  
 
More info: 
e-mail: lisa@nystage.com OR call: (802) 540-0700 
or visit 
www.tapkids.com 
===================== 
 
*MIDWEST * 
NEWS UPDATES & EVENTS 
----------------------------------------------------- 
 
All Things Chi featuring M.A.D.D. Rhythms, FootworKINGz and 
The National Steppers Society at The Harold Washington 
Library 
"All Things Chi" featuring M.A.D.D. Rhythms, FootworKINGz 
and The National Steppers Society was recently premiered at 
The Chicago Cultural center and here is what the director 
of program development, Cynthia Quick, had to say about it: 
 
Congratulations to all of you! 
You brought the house down last night! 
 
Thank you all for presenting a very professional, dynamic 
and creative dance program last night. 
We had a full house (over 275 people) and judging from the 
standing ovation, everyone loved it. 
Each part of the performance complemented the other, moving 
from stunning tap to amazing footworking and mellow 
steppin' . . . it all worked. 
 
Bril, you have a great concept with All Things Chi and I'm 
glad the Cultural Center could give you 
the support you needed to make it happen. 
 
I enjoyed working with all of you. 
 
Best, 
 
Cynthia 
 
Cynthia Quick 
Director of Program Development 
Chicago Dept. of Cultural Affairs 
 
Here is your your chance to see it again and its FREE, 
FREE, FREE! 
 
http://www.chipublib.org/events/details/id/6377/ 
====================== 
 
OPPORTUNITY: 
 
Attention all young and gifted artists: 
This is a wonderful opportunity for your artistic 
development and a little financial help!!!!! 
I went through this program and it changed my life. Check 
it out. M.A.D.D. Rhythms is happy to pass it 
on.................. 
 
 
 
07youngARTS_color 
 
 
Breaking News 
 
 
A program of National Foundation 
 
for Advancement in the Arts (NFAA) 
 
 
Tuesday, April 29, 2008 
 
The Mission of the National Foundation for Advancement in 
the Arts is to identify emerging Artists and assist them at 
critical junctures in their educational and professional 
development; and to raise the appreciation for, and support 
of, the arts in American Society. 
 
Early Registration Now Open for 
 
youngARTS 2009 
 
To register, log on to 
 
www.youngARTS.org 
 
Seeking talented 17 and 18-year-old students in nine arts 
disciplines for 
 
cash awards of up to $10,000 and the chance to be named 
Presidential Scholar in the Arts 
 
 
 
Calling all aspiring writers, photographers, dancers, 
visual artists, musicians or other talented individuals 
with a passion for the arts: registration is now open for 
the 2009 youngARTS™ Awards, one of the most prestigious and 
respected arts initiatives for high school seniors in the 
country. 
 
 
 
As the core program of the National Foundation for 
Advancement in the Arts (NFAA), youngARTS™ recognizes and 
rewards exceptional student artists from across the U.S. in 
each of nine fields: 
 
* cinematic arts 
* dance 
* jazz  
* music 
* photography  
* theater 
* visual arts 
* voice and 
* writing. 
 
 
 
High school seniors in the 2008-2009 school year or 
graduates who will be 17 or 18-years-old on December 1, 
2008 are encouraged to apply for individual cash awards of 
up to $10,000 and the chance to be named a Presidential 
Scholar in the Arts. To register, go directly to: 
http://www.youngA 
 
RTS.org/Programs/youngARTS%20Program. 
================================= 
 
*WEST COAST * 
NEWS UPDATES & EVENTS 
----------------------------------------------------- 
 
CALIFORNIAN TAP DAY with Roxane Butterfly 
 
Greetings everyone! 
 
TAP DAY is bringing me back on the West Coast. It' s been a 
while..... 
so I hope to see as much of you at THE BEAT and THE JULIAN 
MORGAN 
CENTER! 
 
Saturday May 24th: 10-11am: Improv class 
11-12.15am: Intermediate 
12.45-2pm: Advanced 
2.45- 3.30pm: Tap w/ live 
percussion 
 
Sunday May 25th: 10-11am: Improv class 
11.15-12.30pm: Intermediate 
12.45-2pm: Advanced 
 
Location: THE BEAT, 2560 9th street, berkeley, CA 94710 
thebeat@lmi.net / www.the-beat.org / 510 548 5348 
 
Performance on Sunday May 25th at the JULIA MORGAN CENTER FOR THE ARTS, 
2640 College Avenue in Berkeley. 7pm 
Tix: 925-798-1300 
Students: $20, General: $25, Hoofers Circle: $40 
 
Roxane's classes are $25 
================================= 
 
Sunday, May 25 - LA 
Debbie Allen Dance Academy 
 
National Tap Dance Day Celebration w/ 
Jason Rodgers, Sarah Reich, Steve Zee, Charon Aldredge, Arlene Kennedy, Mike Wittmers, Gregg Russell, Chantel Heath, Nicole Nicholas 
12:00 - 6:00 
$15/class 
 
Email: sourtaps@yahoo.com for more info 
Call: DADA 310.280.9145 
===================== 
 
2nd Annual Choreography Media Honors! 
 
Please join us for the Choreography Media Honors on Friday June 13, 2008 at the Directors Guild of America. The event honors outstanding achievement for choreography in film, television, video, and commercials for 2007. 
Last year’s inaugural event was truly wonderful. This year’s ceremony stands to be just as fabulous, so we hope to see you there! To purchase tickets, please visit 
Dance Camera West. 
 
CMH Invitation  
 
 
McDonald Selznick Associates, Inc. 
 
www.mcdonaldselznick.com 
 
www.myspace.com/mcdonaldselznick 
 
www.youtube.com/user/MSAGlobalLeader 
================================= 
 
*WORLD-WIDE * 
NEWS UPDATES & EVENTS 
----------------------------------------------------- 
 
Remembering Dr. Jimmy Slyde: 
 
From Leela Petronio: 
Bonjour.......C'est avec beaucoup de tristesse que nous vous faisons part du décès ce vendredi 16 mai d'un ami très proche - le grand danseur Jimmy Slyde. Légende de la danse, il nous a donné beaucoup d'inspiration et partagé tellement de sa sagesse. Il avait une affinité particulière pour la France qu'il considérait comme son deuxième "chez lui". Partenaire de Sarah Petronio durant de nombreuses années, il a largement contribué à faire connaître le Tap Dance en France. Il nous manque déjà. 
 
Hello.......With great sadness we share with you the news of the passing of a Tap Legend - Jimmy Slyde left us Friday May 16th. 
He was a great inspiration and shared much wisdom. He had a special connection with France, partnered with Sarah Petronio for many years here where he contributed immensely to establishing Tap Dance. We miss him already. 
 
IN LOVING MEMORY..... 
================ 
 
From Roxane Butterfly: 
We are honoring Jimmy Slyde at the Julia Morgan Theater on Sunday May 25th at 7pm.  
This is a part of the workshop at THE BEAT (www.the-beat.org) where I am teaching this weekend (Berkeley, California) 
Funds are being raised to help us deal with the aftermath of his departure onto the other world 
Those willing to donate can email me and I will tell them how to proceed. 
Read the article; 
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/17/arts/dance/17slyde.html?_r=1&ref=dance&oref=slogin <http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/17/arts/dance/17slyde.html?_r=1&amp;ref=dance&amp;oref=slogin>  
 
View full size 
 
and the beat goes on... 
 
OTHER NEWS: 
-June 13th, I am appearing along with Max Pollak, Jane Goldberg and Tina Pratt at the Tribeca Performing Arts Center for the LOST JAZZ SHRINES serie 
http://www.tribecapac.org/music.htm 
 
-June 30th-July 5th: FLAMENCO and TAP, Brothers in Rhythms 
Roxane Butterfly at the Museo del Baile Flamenco in SEVILLA (Spain) 
See info here attached. Performances , film and Workshop! 
jparedes@museoflamenco.com 
 
-July 7th-July 13th: TAP ON BARCELONA (Spain) 
I will be teaching for the one week Tap Intensive in Barcelona with the best of the Iberic Tap Scene  
www.taponbarcelona.com 
 
-The new DVD of Worldbeat is now on sale for 17 euros + 4 euros for shipping. 
Checks are to be made to Roxane Butterfly-Semadeni, 9 rue de Lorgues, 83000 Toulon 
 
Have a wonderful summer everyone! 
Roxane 
 
 
Roxane Butterfly's Worldbeats 
Spain: +34 651 684 430 
USA: +1 212 636 9584 
http://worldbeats.free.fr 
 
Watch our last videos! 
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&VideoID=23832553 
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&VideoID=21532320 
=============== 
 
INTERNATIONAL TAP DANCE DAY 
Sunday 25th May 
10am - 1pm. 
FEDERATION SQUARE, Melbourne. 
Everyone's invited to celebrate the birthday of the great Bill "Bojangles" Robinson. If you (or troupe) are interested in performing on the mainstage on tap day, email enquire@mitf.com.au, and they will try to accomodate you between the Jam sessions and live demonstrations 
 
Jimmy Slyde: 
 
October 2,1927 - May 16, 2008 
 
It is with great regret that we must announce the passing of Dr. Jimmy Slyde. 
 
Dr. Slyde was, and will forever be, a source of wisdom in the artistry of tap dance. 
 
As he would say, "He hasn't left us, he's left something for us." 
see the tap tribute page at www.mitf.com.au for more. 
 
The Swift Brothers - Australias' Got Talent 
 
For those of us in Australia, tune into "Australias' Got Talent" at 7.30pm, Tuesdays on channel 7. Tap Dance duo "The Swift Brothers" (Harry and Oscar Swift) have made it through. 
 
MITF news 
 
Jason Samuels Smith and Chloe Arnold availability confirmed for October 14-21st. Check out the performance page for all artists' bios. 
If you would like to be considered as a performer or teacher at the tap festival be sure to contact the committee (enquire@mitf.com.au) a.s.a.p, as they are near the end stages of finalising. 
The Venue for the shows has been confirmed: 
(The National Theatre, Cnr of Carlisle and Barkly Streets, St Kilda.) 
 
other news: 
-The Swift Rhythm Hoofers corporate tap dance troupe back from performing in Singapore 
-Grant Swift tap classes now held at: Indonesian Uniting Church (158 Balaclava Rd, Caulfield Nth). see www.grantswift.com for more 
 
Good Health!! 
 
Grant Swift and Mitf Committee 
============================== 
 
www.divinerhythmproductions.com 
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