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Divine Rhythm News

May 15, 2009

IN THIS ISSUE: 
 
*DRP ARTISTS* 
-Harlem Tap Party: Saturday, May 16th!
-MR WIGGLES EUROPEAN TOUR! MAY 09
-MR WIGGLES "THE VOCAB VOL 1"
-Sue Samuels- NEW LOCATION! New Class *New Price*Let's Dance!
-Jason Samuels Smith at Windy City Rhythms
-Amazing Kaleidoscope of Tap Dancing by Emmy Award winner Jason Samuels Smith
-STUDY with TAP SENSATION DORMESHIA SUMBRY-EDWARDS
-Chloe Arnold Tap Workshops in Hawaii ~ May 13-19
-TAP EXTRAVAGANZA
-Philly TAP Challenge "ON FIRE!" officially announced
-JASON SAMUELS SMITH and A.C.G.I. At Jacob's Pillow Dance
-Tap City 2009
-CHRP Rhythm World 2009
-LA Tap Festival 2009
-Tap Into A Cure 2009

*EAST COAST*
-Tap Legacy Update : Jimmy Slyde Memorial Celebration
-TAP EXTRAVAGANZA-Queens at FLUSHING TOWN HALL Saturday, May 16, 2009
-Check out Amor Latino -- Now through May 24th 
-Hollywood at the State 
-Tap Jam at Skipper's
-Sunset Boat Ride & Tap Jam
-New York Dance Parade 2009
-Special Offer from PAA
-FFRREEEE & discounted classes for all!
-Mendi + Keith Obadike: Four Electric Ghosts
-CHECK OUT ATDF ON NY1
-May Tap Happenings - ATDF
-Master class with Nicole Hockenberry..Sunday May 17
-Rockette Workshop!
-Artist Spotlight: “Radio and Juliet”; Trivia For Tickets


*MIDWEST*
-Couples Tap
-It's Chicago Saturday Night! Did I Say "Shoot Me"?
-I Still Love H.E.R. (atributetohiphop)


*WEST COAST*
-LA IRONWORKS Presents Steve Zee at the M Bar with Sarah Reich
-Celebrate National Tap Dance Day & Sarah Reich's 20th Birthday
-Monday Night Tap Experience

*WORLD-WIDE*
-Pandit Chitresh Das is awarded the nation's highest honor in 
the folk and traditional arts 
-Monsters Official Release
================================= 
 
*DRP ARTISTS * 
NEWS UPDATES & EVENTS 
----------------------------------------------------- 

Harlem Tap Party

Saturday, May 16, 2009

9:00 PM – 3:00 AM

The Harlem Tap Studio
401 West 149th Street NYC

HARLEM TAP WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL THOSE WHO CAME OUT TO THE "HARLEM TAP PARTY"
LAST SATURDAY NIGHT!!!!! IT WAS A GREAT TIME! SO LET'S DO IT AGAIN!

ATTENTION!!! ALL tap dancers, musicians, and party people!
Once again the "HARLEM TAP PARTY" is on!!
Drinks, Food, DJ, & Live Music
BRING YOUR SHOES...Hoof 'til you drop!!!

(212)780-2139

harlemtap@gmail.com
=================================


MR WIGGLES EUROPEAN TOUR! MAY 09

MR WIGGLES TOUR OF EUROPE
UK, FINLAND, SWITZERLAND, NORWAY

NEW YORK CITY
not Europe :)
but ill be there from APRIL 22nd-28th
HOLLA FOR PRIVATE CLASSES
POPPIN, ROCKIN, TUTTIN, BOOGALOO
mrwiggleseb@cox.net
----------------------------------------
UK
Breakin' Convention 2009
MAY 4th-5th
MR WIGGLES PERFORMANCE, POPPIN CLASSES, and BRONX STYLE PARTY!

----------------------------------------
FINLAND, HELSINKI
SUPER FUNK JAM
MAY 7th-9th
MR WIGGLES POPPING & ROCKIN CLASSES, and BRONX STYLE PARTY!

contact: superfunkjam@yahoo.com

PS: FINLAND i will be there for sure! sorry for th last cancelation.
But these classes are gonna be CRAZY FRESH i PROMISE!
see you soon
wiggles:)
----------------------------------------
SWITZERLAND
ZURICH
STYLE IS KING
MAY 10th
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

THUNE
GRAFFITI WORKSHOPS
MAY 17th
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO


1. Black Book Session: 10h - 12h
Learn basic New York style graffiti letters and history, and learn how
original writers bombed there black books (hard cover sketch pad).
2. Graffiti Jacket Session: 13h - 15h
Learn how to paint a denim jacket with acrylic paint, spray paint and
paint markers. Wiggles will take you through all the steps of painting
an original New York style graffiti jacket.
3. Outdoor spray session: 15h30 - 17h30
Learn how to rock a can, sketch, fill ins, hook ups, clouds, outline,
force fields and more. All spray can sessions will be outdoors, and on
bristol boards.
You have to bring with you:
FOR MORE INFO CLICK HERE:
http://styleisking.com/index.php?page=dyn1&id=19?=en

also more dance workshops in SWITZERLAND will be announced soon:)

contact: be_magical@hotmail.com

----------------------------------------
NORWAY
BTS CREW JAM
MAY 30th
MR WIGGLES PERFORMANCE, CLASSES

contacts: steinjoar@gmail.com or williamottestad@gmail.com



ALSO HOLLA AT ME FOR PRIVATES IN ANY OF THESE EVENTS:)
125 EURO AN HOUR

peace
wiggles

=================================

MR WIGGLES "THE VOCAB VOL 1"

Mr Wiggles demonstrates many STYLES, FLAVAS, CONCEPTS, SKILLS, and MOVES.

Vol 1 featuring:
lurchin, dime stops, walk outs, fresno styles, twisto flex, neck o
flex, spottin, scare crow, saccin, puppet strings, remote control,
snakin, double pops, air posin, peek a boo, tickin, filmore, electric
boogie, tuttin, front knee bop. and more!
sells for $25 on mrwiggles.biz,
Buy now for $20



Sue Samuels- NEW LOCATION! New Class *New Price*Let's Dance!

Hi Everyone!
I'm excited to announce 2 new classes.
Broadway Jazz - Beginner level
Tuesday and Thursday mornings 10-11:30

***NEW*NEW* Convenient location***
244 W. 54th St. Bet. Broadway and 8th Ave.
Suite #404 Flaminco Latino Studio


***Dance More Pay Less***
single class $14.00 10-class card $120.00

Now you can dance every morning! What a way to start the day!
These classes are going GREAT!

For more information, please call me:
212-262-0873
or e-mail.
=0 A

I look forward to seeing you there!
Live, Love, DANCE!!
Love,
Sue Samuels

=================================

Amazing Kaleidoscope of Tap Dancing by Emmy Award winner Jason Samuels Smith

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pCjdpTnhauY

==================================


Jason Samuels Smith at Windy City Rhythms

May 29, 30 and 31 at the MCA
We're thrilled to announce that Emmy-award winner and reigning
Superman of tap, Jason Samuels Smith, will be appearing alongside
Barbatuques at our upcoming Windy City Rhythms concerts.

To top it off, our talented performing ensemble BAM! will kick off the
performance with premieres of three new pieces choreographed by tap
masters from around the world.


With such an amazing line up of percussive arts stars, tickets won't
last long! Simply click on the icon to the left to get yours now.


Don't forget that Barbatuques will be leading two body percussion
workshops during their stay in Chicago. Take advantage of this rare
opportunity to study with these Brazilian percussion masters:

Thursday, May 28 @ 6pm, Old Town School of Folk Music

Sunday, May 31 @ 4pm, Museum of Contemporary Art
(only $15 with purchase of a concert ticket!)

=================================

STUDY with TAP SENSATION DORMESHIA SUMBRY-EDWARDS

(from the Movie "TAP", Bring in Da'Noise, Bring in Da'Funk, Black and
Blue, Star of The Rise and Fall of Miss Thang, Superstars of Dance)

at

HARLEM TAP STUDIO
401 West 149th street (take A train and walk 4 blocks north)
2127802139

THURSDAYS (Intermediate Advanced Level)

6-7:30pm

ONLY $15 per class!

=================================

Chloe Arnold Tap Workshops in Hawaii ~ May 13-19

Uh Manoa

Wednesday, May 13th – Oahu

5:30 pm beg/int

7:30 pm int/adv

reservations: 808-254-3271

Saturday, May 16th - Maui

Kula Underground

12:30 pm - beg

2:00 pm – low int

3:30 pm – int +


Sunday, May 17th – Maui

Maui Arts & Cultural Center

11:00 am – beg +

3:00 pm – low int

4:30 pm – int/adv

reservations: 808-878-1482


Tuesday, May 19th – Big Island

Island Dance Academy Hilo

3:00 pm – beg/Int

4:15 pm – int/adv

5:45 pm – beg

reservations: 808-934-9024

*All classes are 75 minutes each
$20

kula underground classes: $25

=================================

TAP EXTRAVAGANZA
20th Annual Celebration of National Tap Dance Day
When: Sunday, May 24th @ 7:00PM
Where: FIT's Haft Auditorium (227 W. 27th Street - NYC)
Cost: $69, $55, $45 and $25 tickets are available
More Info: www.nytap.org

================================= 
Philly TAP Challenge "ON FIRE!" officially announced!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Jaye Allison, 215-490-3717
May 1, 2009 534 South 56th Street 1st floor
Philadelphia, PA 19143
newleja@yahoo.com

JA’s Philly TAP Challenge ‘09 ON FIRE! It’s Over the TOP!
Take ten! Only $10 for any class or ticket, no registration fees! VISIT:www.phillytapchallenge.webs.com

Some of the World’s Top Tap Dancers arrive in region to instruct, perform, meet and celebrate Philly. Friday-Saturday, June 26-27, all events held at the following locations:
Community Education Center (CEC), 3500 Lancaster Ave; Gwendolyn Bye Dance Center (GBDC), 3611 Lancaster Ave & The Arts Bank Theater (ABT), Broad & South Streets, along The Avenue of the Arts

Friday – Gwendolyn Bye Dance Center (GBDC) or Arts Bank Theater (ABT)
GBDC Studio A- AM: 10a Stretch Class (PCBC) - 10:30a Paddle n Roll (Jaye Allison) – 11:40a Choreography (Darrell Williams)
PM: 2:30p Student Class (Chloe Arnold) – 3:55p Student Class (Karen Callaway Williams)
GBDC Studio B- AM: 10:30a Hip Hop – 11:40a Lindy Hop PM: 2:25p African
ABT -7:30p Showtime Amateur / Professional Showcase*
Community Education Center (CEC) in the East Community Room (ECR) or Meetinghouse Theater (MT)
CEC –ECR AM: 10:40a Teachers Only (Dianne Walker) – 11:55 Student Class (Jason Samuels Smith)
MT – PM: 1:25p Tap History (Tony Nicholas) – 2:30 Films
ECR: 2:25p Student Class (Nicole Nicholas) 3:45p Teachers Only (Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards)

Saturday – Gwendolyn Bye Dance Center (GBDC) or Arts Bank Theater (ABT)
GBDC Studio A- AM: 10a Stretch Class (PCBC) 10:30a Student Class (Corinne Karon) – 11:40a Student Class (Tim Yue)
PM: 2:30p Student Class (Robert Burden) – 3:55p Student Class (Dianne Walker)
GBDC Studio B- AM: 10:30a Hip Hop – 11:40a Lindy Hop PM: 2:25p African
ABT -7:30p Showtime Amateur / Professional Showcase*
Community Education Center (CEC) East Community Room (ECR) or Meetinghouse Theater (MT)
CEC -ECR AM: 10:40a Teachers Only (Chloe Arnold) – 11:55 Student Class (Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards)
MT – 11a Tap Films... 1:30p Tap History (Dianne Walker) – 2:30 Films
ECR: 2:25p Student Class (Cathie Nicholas) 3:45p Teachers Only (Jason Samuels Smith)

*Both showcases featured house band is the first Lady of Jazz Guitar, Monnette Sudler and her Quartet.
Info and tickets available online at www.phillytapchallenge.webs.com

For the 6th year, Jaye Allison, Founding director of New LEJA Dances, organizes JAPTC with The Philadelphia Civic Ballet Company (the oldest dance company in the Commonwealth of PA.), to honor Philadelphia’s Tap history. Her vision links today’s generation to Philadelphia streets from the 1930s- 80s, inspiring the future. Open workshops and performances with various styles of Classical and Hoofing Tap Dance, African, Hip-Hop and Lindy Hop styles include: Jason Samuels Smith, Dianne ‘Lady Di’ Walker, Nicholas Sisters, 2nd Generation Silver Belles, Chloe Arnold, Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards, Karen Callaway Williams. Showcase appearances include Philadelphia hoofing professionals, Robert Burden Jr., Rochelle Haynes, Corinne Karon, JoAnna Turner, Darrell Williams, Tim Yue and more along with many students represent the Philadelphia Region over this 2 day blowout of TAP TOWN Philadelphia.

JAPTC is devoted to recognizing the treasure chest Philadelphia holds for Tap and making Tap Dance synonymous with Philadelphia. There are 4 components: Workshops with Master teachers and professionals, Philly TAP Idol Competition (age appropriate), 2 nights of Performance Showcases (Friday, Amateurs and Professionals – Saturday, Professional), the Virtual Quilt Project Premiere.
Philadelphia Inquirer: “TAP TOWN” City Paper “LEJA celebrates and affirms the nurturing power of African American culture.” DANCE Magazine “LEJA’s dancing reinvigorates the standard African American concert dance vocabulary.”
American TAP History - Yesterday, Today and Forever – in Philadelphia! Workshops, Performances, Showcase, “Tap Challenge Dance-Off,” Semi-Formal Reception Ball, Films and Documentary, Live Jazz, and more!!!
The Philly Tap Challenge presented by New LEJA Dances, the co & Philadelphia Civic Ballet Co. and made possible through a PA state DCED grant, Senator Mike Stack, and The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage through Dance Advance.
=================================

JASON SAMUELS SMITH and A.C.G.I. (Anybody Can Get it)
July 22 – August 2
Doris Duke Theatre
Two-Week Engagement
Live Music

Be uplifted and astounded by tap sensation Jason Samuels
Smith and his super-troupe A.C.G.I. (Anybody Can Get It)
featuring some of the best feet in the business. A prodigy
when cast in Savion Glover's Broadway hit Bring in ‘da
Noise, Bring in ‘da Funk at age 15, Smith went on to become
an Emmy Award-winner, television and feature film star,
director, and choreographer carrying on the great tradition
of tap. Audiences may recognize Smith as a featured guest
performer on the hit television show So You Think You Can
Dance. Expected to be in hot demand, this show is a
two-week engagement and features live music!
NEW! Doris Duke Theatre now opening on Wednesday evenings
Wednesday – Saturday, 8:15pm
Saturday, 2:15pm
Sunday 5pm
Tickets: $33 adults, $30 seniors, students, child, $29
Full, and Flex 5 subscribers. Members enjoy early ordering
privileges

=================================

TAP CITY 2009

July 6 - 11

Register NOW for HUGE savings! All packages include a ticket to the
Premier Performance at Symphony Space!

Festival classes include:
Half Day & Full Day Festival for Youth
Pre-Professional Program for Teens
Residencies, 2-day Courses & Master Classes for Adults
Performances opportunities for all festival participants
An AMAZING premier performance at Symphony Space
Tap Talks / Tap Films
More events TBA
Scholarships available for children ages 6 - 19
Faculty includes: Michelle Dorrance, DeWitt Fleming, Derick K. Grant,
Susan Hebach, Max Pollak, Barbara Duffy, Jason Samuels Smith,
Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards, Randy Skinner, Harold Cromer, Brenda
Bufalino, Mercedes Ellington, Germaine Salsberg, Thelma Goldberg, Lisa
LaTouche, Lynn Schwab, Carson Murphy, Chloe Arnold, Acia Gray, Geo
Hubela, David Rider, Ray Hesselink, Jimmy Tate, Michele Ribble, Alicia
Smith, & Kelly Kaleta

Check it out!

http://www.atdf.org/tapcity_2009/RegInformation09.htm

=================================
July-Aug Rhythm World

Good morning. Chicago Human Rhythm Project's annual festival of
American tap--the oldest and most comprehensive of its kind--July 27-
Aug. 9 at several venues in downtown Chicago. Week-long residencies
with tap masters, classes and workshops with a range of expert
instructor/performers and a series of performances, ranging from tap
slam competitions to a free concert in Millennium Park are among the
festival's activities.

I hope you'll help us get the word out about the festival, including
the free performance in Millennium Park along w/ the other
activities. Bios of the instructor/performers are provided at the
links in the release. Low-res images will be available on the Press
page of CHRP's website, chicagotap.org, this week, and I'd be happy
to send high-res versions of any that interest you.

Thanks much for your time and consideration.
Jill

-----

RHYTHM WORLD TAKES OVER DOWNTOWN CHICAGO JULY 27–AUGUST 9

Chicago Human Rhythm Project’s 19th Annual Festival Takes Place at
Jay Pritzker Pavilion,

Cultural Center, Museum of Contemporary Art, Fine Arts Building,
Roosevelt University



CHICAGO—The peak of summer in Chicago will offer the peak of tap
festivals when the Chicago Human Rhythm Project (CHRP), the world’s
only year-round presenter of American tap dance and contemporary
percussive arts, presents Rhythm World, the oldest and most
comprehensive festival of American tap in the world. Now in its 19th
year of performance and education programs, Rhythm World takes place
July 27–August 9 throughout downtown Chicago, including the Jay
Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park, the Fine Arts Building, Chicago
Cultural Center, Museum of Contemporary Art and Roosevelt University.

CHRP Founder and Director Lane Alexander returns to the
director’s seat after three years of guest direction by Jason
Samuels Smith, Dianne Walker and Derick Grant. As always, this
year’s Rhythm World will feature perennial favorites, including
Bessie Award winner Sam Weber and Broadway diva Dormeshia Sumbry-
Edwards, alongside new and emerging artists, including Jason Janus, a
principal of the Texas tap repertory company Tapestry, and Chloe
Arnold, founder and director of the Los Angeles Tap Fest.

Education Programs

Rhythm World begins July 27 with intensive residencies led by Sam
Weber and Derick Grant at the Fine Arts Building, 410 S. Michigan
Ave., and members of Step Afrika! at the Museum of Contemporary Art
(MCA), 220 E. Chicago Ave. Weber, a Bessie Award winner and former
Joffrey 2 member, is internationally recognized as one of the
greatest tap virtuosos of all time as well as a master choreographer
and master teacher. Grant was an original company member and dance
captain for Bring in Da Noise, Bring in Da Funk and recently toured
the country with his creation A Night Out: Tap!. Step Afrika!, based
in Washington, D.C., is the first professional company in the world
dedicated to the tradition of stepping, and they will make their full-
company Chicago debut on CHRP’s Global Rhythms program at the Harris
Theater in November 2009.

Courses, workshops and master classes take place August
3–9 at the Fine Arts Building and Roosevelt University, 430 S.
Michigan Ave. The highly respected faculty of master teachers, in
addition to Weber, Grant and members of Step Afrika!, includes CHRP
Director Lane Alexander, Chloe Arnold, Julie Cartier, Idella Reed
Davis, CHRP Associate Director Martin “Tre” Dumas, Ray Hesselink,
Jason Janas, Gene Medler, Billy Siegenfeld, Jason Samuels Smith,
Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards, Dianne “Lady Di” Walker and Mark Yonally.

Now in its eighth year, CHRP’s annual Youth Tap
Ensemble Conference (YTEC) takes place August 3–7 at the Fine Arts
Building. PrepTEC, a new component in this year’s YTEC, offers
younger members of the pre-professional repertory companies an
opportunity to benefit from the expertise available during Rhythm
World. More than 120 dancers between the ages of 12 and 19,
representing 14 youth tap ensembles from the U.S., China, Brazil,
Canada, Panama and other locations, will gather to study new
choreography, technique, improvisation and theatre-related topics.
YTEC participants will learn three new works by Jason Janus,
Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards and Step Afrika! while the PrepTEC students
will learn an historical dance from Dianne Walker created by her
mentor, native Chicagoan Leon Collins.

An expanded Kids Program August 5–7 at the Fine Arts
Building offers intermediate tappers ages nine through 12 a
curriculum including oral and video histories, tap technique classes,
improvisation instruction and individual development of style and
expression.

To register for any of the education programs, visit
chicagotap.org or call 773-281-1825.

Performances

CHRP kicks off a week of performances with its second annual free
performance featuring Rhythm World faculty, YTEC participants and
special guests Sunday, August 2 at 6:30 p.m. at the Jay Pritzker
Pavilion in Millennium Park, as part of the City of Chicago’s summer
music and dance performance series. Chicago’s finest tap repertory
companies will perform, including CHRP’s ensemble BAM!, Jump Rhythm
Jazz Project, Jus’ LisTeN and Chicago Tap Theatre, as well as last
year’s smashing percussion/dance group, Be the Groove.

The week continues with a Tap Jam, a fun, free evening of
improvisation by Rhythm World participants Monday, August 3 at the
Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington. Tuesday, August 4 is a
double-header evening featuring the Tap Slam and the Cutting Contest
at 7:30 p.m. at Roosevelt University’s Ganz Hall, 430 S. Michigan
Ave., 7th floor. The Tap Slam puts the spotlight on 10 group or
individual Rhythm World participants competing for the Tap Slam entry
fees; the audience votes to determine the winner. The Cutting
Contest, an improvisation competition, pits 16 of the hottest young
tap dancers against each other in a foot-to-foot combat tournament. A
select panel of Rhythm World faculty members will judge the
competition and the winner will receive the Contest entry fees. A
student showcase performance takes place Wednesday, August 5 at 7:30
p.m., also at Ganz Hall. Admission to the August 4 and 5 evenings is
$5 each at the door or in advance at chicagotap.org.

Rhythm World culminates with CHRP’s annual performances, “JUBA!
Masters of Tap and Percussive Dance,” featuring a host of
extraordinary foot drummers on Thursday, August 6 and Saturday,
August 8 at the Museum of Contemporary Art’s MCA Stage, 220 E.
Chicago Ave. Thursday’s performance includes Emmy Award winner Jason
Samuels Smith, Broadway diva Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards and renowned
choreographer Chloe Arnold, joined by CHRP Founder and Director Lane
Alexander and CHRP's ensemble BAM!. Saturday’s performance includes
the Ella Fitzgerald of American tap, Dianne “Lady Di” Walker,
alongside tap virtuoso and Bessie Award winner Sam Weber, wunderkind
Jason Janas and Chicago’s finest tap ensembles. Both performances
also feature guest artists from around the world and live music by
the Vijay Tellis-Nayak Trio. Single tickets are $30, $25 for Rhythm
World participants and MCA members.

For complete Rhythm World information, visit chicagotap.org or call
773-281-1825. For tickets to “JUBA!” performances, call
312-397-4010 or visit mcachicago.org.

CHRP’s 2009 season concludes with Global Rhythms and Thanks 4
Giving, a series of shared revenue, contemporary percussive arts
performances featuring the Chicago debut of Washington D.C.’s Step
Afrika!, November 19, 20, 21 at the Harris Theater for Music and
Dance in Millennium Park.

CHRP’s 2009 season is supported by The MacArthur Fund for the Arts
and Culture at the Prince, The Chicago Community Trust, Prince
Charitable Trusts, the National Endowment for the Arts, Target,
American Airlines, Leo’s Dancewear, The Illinois Arts Council, The
Judd A. and Marjorie Weinberg Family Foundation, The Gaylord and
Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, The Jerome and Jeanette Cohen Family
Foundation, The Oppenheimer Family Foundation, L!VE Marketing (sic),
Charter One Bank, the Illinois Arts Council, the City of Chicago
Department of Cultural Affairs, the Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation,
Arts Midwest, The The Dr. Scholl Foundation, American Overseas
Transport, L and L Hardwood Flooring and generous individual donors.
All programming is subject to change. For information, visit
chicagotap.org.

Founded in 1990, the Chicago Human Rhythm Project is America’s
oldest institution dedicated to preserving, presenting and teaching
tap and percussive dance by bringing together generations of tap
dance legends, professionals, students and enthusiasts for classes,
performances and workshops. CHRP has four artistic focuses:
presenting world-class dance concerts, building a permanent
educational forum for tap and percussive dance, sustaining the art
form through preservation and documentation and promoting respect and
appreciation between various communities by presenting ethnically and
aesthetically diverse artists.

All programming is subject to change. For information visit
chicagotap.org.

=================================

Save the Date – LA Tap Festival 2009!

2009 LA Tap Fest

Presented by The Debbie Allen Dance Academy

August 10-15th 2009

www.latapfest.com

================================= 
Tap Into A Cure 2009

www.tapintoacure.com
August 19 – 21, 2009
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
780 722 9562
Registration now available
Click  “Register”  on web site to view class schedules, class descriptions and registration sheets.
Tap Into A Cure’s “THE AFRICA PROJECT” is back for another amazing year of classes and showcase. This will be our fourth year in the City of Champions, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.  
We have brought together another exciting year of tap dance, returning to us for a second year New York City’s amazingly talented Jason Samuels Smith, New York is also sending us the incredible Michela Marino - Lerman, Los Angeles California will be proudly represented with the unique talent of Christopher Broughton and the founder of THE AFRICA PROJECT and Tap Into A Cure, Edmonton’s own Andrew Merrigan. We have also included our hip hop friends again this year, as hip hop roots derive from tap dance we feel compelled to include this art form in our workshop. The Rock Steady Crew is sending us the very talented Ynot !
We have added an advisory board, the addition to our family are Bril Barrett, Steffan Clemente, Elka Samuels Smith and Jason Samuels Smith. Upon the advice of our board we have change our dates for the workshop and showcase, so please be aware that this year our showcase will be on a Saturday night  and the workshop runs from Wednesday to Friday. We have also made our packages more affordable. There are three packages of tap dance for you to choose from ranging in prices of $80 to $240. And our Hip Hop classes are below $100.
Last year the world renown “Mr. Wiggles” Steffan Clemente joined us for 3 days of classes and made history on our stage with a battle of hip hop and tap between himself and Jason Samuels Smith. The jaw dropping performance was absolutely mesmerizing, and brought the house down! The Magical Rhythms Showcase will be back at a new location this year, but promises to be as jaw dropping as last year. Check our website for info coming real soon and some exciting additions to our showcase family!  This year’s show will absolutely blow you away.
We need your support to help build the dream of building the Dr. Jeni LeGon Library and Music Room in Mukeu, Kenya. Hope we will see you in August, it will be so much fun, to much to miss!

=================================


*EAST COAST * 
NEWS UPDATES & EVENTS 
----------------------------------------------------- 

Tap Legacy Update - Jimmy Slyde Memorial Celebration

Dear Friend and Supporter,

This May will mark the one year anniversary of the passing of Dr. Jimmy Slyde. One of the true masters of the art of tap dance, Dr. Slyde affected many to say the least. His absence has been truly felt at every event over the past year.

We are proud to announce that a Memorial Celebration will be held in his honor on National Tap Dance Day this year, May 25, 2009. Details are listed below, but be sure to RSVP as space is limited.

Dr. Jimmy Slyde Memorial Celebration
555 West 141st Street
-------------------
6pm-8pm - Memorial Tribute
Sali Ann Kriegsman, MC
with special guests
-------------------
9pm - Jam Session
-------------------
Reservations Recommended


As part of the Memorial Celebration the planning committee is putting together a series of "Slyde-isms" to be included as part of the event. Do you have one that stands out? A saying? A mannerism? Email them here so that they may be included.


We at the Tap Legacy Foundation are honored to be a part of will be a truly memorable event. Please spread the word by forwarding this information to your friends and lists. I look forward to seeing you there.

Sincerely,


Andrew J. Nemr
President and Co-founder
Tap Legacy Foundation, Inc.

=================================

TAP EXTRAVAGANZA - Queens at FLUSHING TOWN HALL 

Saturday, May 16, 2009, from 8 p.m. Tickets $25 / $20 Members / $15 Students

Hello, Dear Friends, Music Lovers and Tap Aficionados!

This is my first major event for 2009 - a tap show - funded, just between us, by the $7,000 you donated to my birthday party for exactly this purpose! Thanks to each and every one of you!

I'm co-presenting and producing TAP EXTRAVAGANZA-Queens on Saturday, May 16, 2009, with Flushing Council on Culture and the Arts in their gorgeous Flushing Town Hall which they are donating to this event.Tickets to this fabulous, exciting and incredible show (smile) are ONLY $25 / $20 Members / $15 Students. I promise you will really enjoy this show!

For further informaton or to purchase tickets, go to www.flushingtownhall.org or call the box office: 718-463-7700 x 222

Co-producers are Traci Mann and Al Heyward, co-chairs of the NY Committee to Celebrate National Tap Dance Day, now celebrating their 20th year with a stunning Tap Extravaganza 2009 on Sunday, May 24, at the Fashion Institute in Manhattan.

Now, we are donating this event to FCCA for two reasons: one, because they are one of the most productive valuable organizations around and deserve to be supported; and two, because with the help and cooperation of FCCA, we are bringing an increased Tap Awareness to the Queens community, possibly creating new tap opportunities, Therefore FCCA will retain the Box Office receipts.

Please come out and support my first major event for 2009! By doing so, you are also supporting a most worthwhile organization! If you cannot come, send someone. Thanks!

Hoofers! Bring your tap shoes and join the Tap Jam and Shim Sham Finale!


Love, Cobi Narita 

=================================

Amor Latino

Now To Sunday May 24th, 2009

A WORLD PREMIERE FLAMENCO/JAZZ/TAP MUSICAL conceived, designed, produced and directed by ANGEL GIL ORRIOS, with original music by BASILIO GEORGES, and choreography by AURORA REYES.

Created/Designed/Directed: Angel Gil Orrios, 
Composer/Arranger/Music Director/Guitarist: Basilio Georges, 
Choreographer/Dancer: Aurora Reyes, 
Special Collaboration: Yloy Ybarra, 
starring: Lia Ochoa, Gerson Lanza, Dolores Sanchez, Xianix Barrera, Milteri Tucker,Maurice Malcom Jr., Josh Johnson, Dmitriy Yepishin, 
violin & dancer: Machiko Ozawa, 
keyboard: Octavio Brunetti, 
bass & box-drum: Sean Kupisz, 
percussion: Mark Holen, 
saxes & flute: Jaime Mancera, 
Assistant Director: Claudia Carrubba, 

Tickets $30; students & seniors $27; Fridays only: all tickets $25. Special group rates.


Thalia Spanish Theatre is conveniently located at 41-17 Greenpoint Avenue, in Sunnyside NY (11104): two blocks south of Queens Boulevard, between 41st and 42nd Streets. ONLY 20 BLOCKS FROM THE 59TH STREET/QUEENSBORO BRIDGE.
BY SUBWAY: Take the No. 7 Flushing line (LOCAL on weekdays) to 40TH STREET/LOWERY in Queens (only 30 minutes from Times Square). Use the stairway marked "Queens Blvd. S.E. Corner", which leaves you at the corner of 40th Street and Queens Boulevard. Walk east one block on Queens Boulevard (away from the Manhattan skyline, which is clearly visible) to 41ST STREET (There is a North Fork Bank on the corner). Turn RIGHT on 41ST STREET. Walk two blocks to 48th Avenue, then make A SHARP LEFT TURN onto Greenpoint Avenue
BY BUS: The Q32 or Q60 buses leaves you at 41st Street and Queens Boulevard. Turn south on 41st Street (the Manhattan skyline is to the west) at the North Fork Bank, walk two blocks to 48th Avenue, and make a sharp left turn onto Greenpoint Avenue.

For more info: http://www.thaliatheatre.org/pages/home.cfm
=====================================

HOLLYWOOD AT THE STATE
Featuring the New Jersey Tap Ensemble
And other special guests
When: Saturday, May 16th @ 6:00PM
Where: NJ State Theatre (New Brunswick, NJ)
More Info: www.StateTheatreNJ.org

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TAP JAM AT SKIPPER'S
Hosted by Yvette Glover
When: Thursday, May 21st from 8:00PM until midnight
Where: Skipper's (304 University Ave - Newark, NJ)
Cost: No cover charge!
**Please Note: Skipper's is only a stroll from the Newark train station. Newark train station is a very quick and cheap ride from Penn Station

=================================

American Tap Dance Foundation
Invites you to a 
Sunset Boat Ride & Tap Jam

Get on board for a lively and spirited cruise around Manhattan.

Thursday May, 21st (7:00 – 10:30pm)

Circle Line Marina, pier 83

West 42nd Street at the Hudson River

While you soak in the city's skyline, enjoy New York's Floating Tap Show!

There’s something aboard for everyone ...live entertainment, great raffle prizes and dancing, dancing, dancing, so come join us and catch the rhythm. 

Bring your own picnic.

Cash bar offers drinks and snacks.

Tony Waag and the staff of the American Tap Dance Foundation invite you to a very unique evening of fun for all ages. Join our tap jam hosts Chloe Arnold, DeWitt Fleming, and Michela Marino-Lerman and dance to the Theo Hill Jazz Trio or just watch. Other participating artists include Brenda Bufalino, Captain Harold Cromer, Mable Lee, the Tap City Youth Ensemble, and more!

7:00pm Boarding

7:30pm Boat sails

10:30pm Boat docks

Tickets: $35 (entire ticket price is tax deductible) 
To purchase contact us at: (646) 230-9564 

Or visit: Sunset Boat Ride Tickets

For detailed information on the Boat Ride Schedule of activities. raffle prizes and more, visit: atdf.org/BoatRideTix.html 

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New York Dance Parade 2009

There's nothing quite like dancing to put a smile on your face. YouTube holds ample proof of this. But today, step away from your computer and get busy at the third-annual Dance Parade. More than 4,000 dancers performing in 55 unique dance styles will samba, belly-dance, break, swing, tap, and bhangra down Broadway and on to Tompkins Square Park for an afternoon of free dance festivities and tutorials. Parade grand marshals — DJ Danny Krivit (house), Luis Salgado (Broadway), Don Cambell (locking), and Morocco (Middle Eastern) — encourage onlookers to boogie down along with Lei Pasifika, Fraternidad Folklorica Bolivia, and Ballet International Africans, as we all celebrate the sheer joy and connective power of dance.

================================= 
Pennsylvania Academy of the Arts

Special Offer for Moms!

Save $10.00 by enrolling

both you and your child in our summer program!
 
As parents, each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children. Why not give your child the gift of DANCE this summer?
 
Dance classes are a great way to get fit, have tons of fun, and spend time with your family! Dance helps you and your child become more aware of music, movement and creativity. Studies show that participating in structured dance classes boosts endorphin levels, improves self-discipline and study habits, and prepares your child (or you) for mastering musical instruments in the future. Most importantly, it fosters a positive self-image and confidence - something invaluable to anyone.
 
Help your child experience the JOY of dance today!

www.pennacadarts.com

…..........

Do You Have Your Tickets????

"ACADEMY AWARDS 2009"
 
Sunday, May 17th at 3:00 p.m.
Mount Nittany Middle School Auditorium 
 
As of this morning, there are less than 50 tickets left!
 
Call 364-2424 or stop by the studio to purchase tickets.

All tickets ordered this week may be picked up at the box office
in the lobby just prior to the show.

================================= 

FREE & discounted classes for all!

May 1st to 15th 2009, Existing students are invited to take classes for $10?and your friends can take classes for FREE with a coupon!?The best way to help re-open Djoniba Centre, is by TAKING CLASSES NOW!
FORWARD THIS E-MAIL TO YOUR FRIENDS & DOWNLOAD YOUR COUPON AT www.djoniba.com! Please be patient with our temporary location: 300 West 43rd Street & 8th Avenue 3rd floor.
See you in class!

================================= 

Mendi + Keith Obadike: Four Electric Ghosts

Event: Mendi + Keith Obadike: Four Electric Ghosts
What: Performance
Host: The Kitchen
Start Time: Thursday, May 14 at 8:00pm
End Time: Saturday, May 16 at 8:00pm
Where: The Kitchen

To see more details and RSVP, follow the link below:
http://www.facebook.com/n/?event.php&eid=79650217533&mid=6ed648G2efdcaacG18bcae8G7

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 CHECK OUT ATDF ON NY1

Check out some of are Tap City Youth Ensemble Members on New York 1

Here are the dates & times they will be aired on NY1:

 Friday May 15th: 8:21 am; 11:21 am; 2:21 pm; 5:21 pm


 Saturday May 16th: 7:52 am; 10:21 am; 4:21 pm; 8:21 pm


 Sunday May 17th: 7:52 am; 9:52 am

It will also be posted on http://www.facebook.com/l/;www.ny1.com starting on  Friday May 15th

***DON'T FORGET TO PRE- PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS***
     DON'T MISS THE  BOAT THURSDAY MAY 21 (7:00pm-10:30pm)

*** To Purchase Tickets 646-230-9564 or Visit http://www.facebook.com/l/;atdf.org/BoatRideTix.html

================================= 

May Tap Happenings - ATDF

Tap City, The New York City Tap Festival 

July 6 - 11, 2009
Register NOW for HUGE savings! All packages include a ticket to the Premier Performance at Symphony Space!  
 
Festival classes include:
Half Day & Full Day Festival for Youth
Pre-Professional Program for Teens
Residencies, 2-day Courses & Master Classes for Adults
Performances opportunities for all festival participants
An AMAZING premier performance at Symphony Space
Tap Talks / Tap Films
More events TBA
Scholarships available for children ages 6 - 19
New Event!! Annual Awards Ceremony at Bruno Walter Auditorium
Faculty includes: Michelle Dorrance, DeWitt Fleming, Derick K. Grant, Susan Hebach, Max Pollak, Barbara Duffy, Jason Samuels Smith, Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards, Randy Skinner, Harold Cromer, Brenda Bufalino, Mercedes Ellington, Germaine Salsberg, Thelma Goldberg, Lisa LaTouche, Ted Levy, Lynn Schwab, Carson Murphy, Chloe Arnold, Acia Gray, Geo Hubela, David Rider, Ray Hesselink, Jimmy Tate, Michele Ribble, Alicia Smith, & Kelly Kaleta

--------

Brenda Bufalino Reconstruction Project

Special Announcement!
 
The American Tap Dance Foundation just received word that the National Endowment for the Arts will be supporting the reconstruction of two Bufalino masterworks, Buff Loves Basie Blues and The Haitian Fight Song with an "American Masterpieces" grant in the amount of $25,000. We will be presenting these revivals at Tap City - the New York City Tap Festival, this coming July.  
 
Buff Loves Basie Blues was premiered in 1991 at The Joyce Theater, and performed by The American Tap Dance Orchestra (ATDO). Inspired by Count Basie riffs and themes, Buff Loves Basie Blues stands as a tribute from Bufalino to Basie, to Jazz and to her mentor Charles 'Honi' Coles, a multi-layered homage to the artists and art forms she loved and which had the greatest influence on her work. Probably Brenda's most celebrated work and a seminal piece in the canon of tap, The Haitian Fight Song with a musical score by Charles Mingus premiered in 1988 on PBS' "Great Performances - Tap Dance in America."
 
Support from the National Endowment for the Arts is wonderful, and to have the grant awarded for Brenda makes it all the more significant, since she started it all. It is also a validation of the work we do and our commitment to preserving the legacies and work of our artists. Stay tuned for future details on this project!

================================= 

Master class with Nicole Hockenberry..Sunday May 17

Event: Master class with Nicole Hockenberry..Sunday May 17
What: Rehearsal
Host: ATDF
Start Time: Sunday, May 17 at 3:30pm
End Time: Sunday, May 17 at 5:00pm
Where: Chelsea Studios

To see more details and RSVP, follow the link below:
http://www.facebook.com/n/?event.php&eid=96216696778&mid=73d513G2efdcaacG1925d31G7

================================= 

Rockette Workshop!

We announced that we were having a workshop with Miss Lindsay Howe this coming Saturday, May 16th 2009 at Dance 10 Dance Center. But we didn't specify times back then. Attached is the flyer with the information and a short bio on Miss Howe. This will be a unique workshop, where dancers of all ages will be able to take class from a working NYC Radio City Hall Rockette, talk to her about her experiences and get a few pointers and advise from the perspective of someone who came from the Sacramento Area, and made it in NYC doing what she loves, Dance!

Don't miss this chance! Contact us if you have any questions and feel free to bring friends, teachers, studio directors, and anyone who might be interested! We hope to see you here!

================================= 


Artist Spotlight: “Radio and Juliet”; Trivia For Tickets

Artist Spotlight: Radio and Juliet by Ballet Maribor

Everyone knows the classic Shakespearian tale of the forbidden love between Romeo and Juliet, teenagers rebelling against their feuding parents, and the tragedy that befalls them. But, we're pretty sure you've never seen the story like
this before.

Choreographer and dancer Edward Clug set his contemporary ballet, Radio and Juliet, entirely to the music of Radiohead, a
three-time Grammy winning English alternative rock band. Rather than use the most well-known Radiohead songs, Clug uses lesser known Radiohead songs such as "Sit Down Stand Up" and "Bullet Proof I Wish I Was" to connect the story with the music. The music and movement - sharp, intense, and intricate - mesh in a way that sheds new light on both the story and the music.

Radio and Juliet reflects the events of the story in an abstract fashion; the poison is symbolized by a lemon and dancers don surgical masks for the masquerade ball. Throughout the ballet, there is one Juliet is dancing with multiple Romeos, symbolizing the ultimately male world in which she resides.

Clug joined Ballet Maribor, the national ballet of Slovenia, in 1991 and was named Artistic Director in 2003. He has won numerous awards for his choreography including the Preseren Foundation Award, Slovenia's most prestigious award honoring achievements in culture. Clug continues to reinvent movement to capture and investigate the complex relationships between men and women.

lug says, "I do have a lot of respect for people coming to my ballet who do not need images or frames to reflect the story he or she knows very well. Certainly, some moments are very recognizable. It's not a different story." Clug will participate in a PillowTalk on Saturday, July 4 at 4pm on Radio and Juliet and the state of ballet in Slovenia.

Visit our website to see video clips from Radio and Juliet and order tickets online. Or call the Jacob's Pillow box office at 413.243.0745, Monday-Friday 10am-5pm. Call today, tickets are going fast!

================================= 

*MIDWEST * 
NEWS UPDATES & EVENTS 
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COUPLES TAP

Join M.A.D.D. Rhythms for this special series of classes 
dedicated to the lover in you.
Couples Tap classes will begin Friday May 15th. 
This session will run for seven weeks and is a beginner level class.

Friday nights 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Price: $100.00 per couple 
for the seven week session

South Shore Cultural Center 
7059 S. Shore Dr., Chicago, IL

================================= 


It's Chicago Saturday Night! Did I Say "Shoot Me"?

Jane at the National Tap Day Festival in Chicago
The Golden Age of Tap - It Don't Mean a Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing
My Dad is almost 99 and he knows every joke in the book. Here's one from him for this coming gig:
I hear there's a lot of sickness in Chicago lately.?I saw a newspaper the other day with the headline 'Chicago, Ill.'

"The Golden Age of Tap" is the title which brings to mind that the last of the Copasetics Ernest Brownie Brown will probably appear in some form. He worked with my mentor Cookie Cook for over 40 years in the "other" golden age of tap in the 1930s and 40s in the renowned comedy/slapstick team Cook & Brown. He's also in his 90's but not as old as my dad.
The line-up includes Reggio McLaughlin, (the producer) and comedienne swing dancer from Whitey's Lindy Hopper's: Norma Miller, Lisa LaTouche, George Patterson, and Doris Humphries (no relation to the modern dance pioneer Doris Humphrey).
I love Chicago and still have great memories from my stint at The Goodman Theatre in 1985, when some reporter asked me, "What's a nice Jewish girl like you doing as a tap dancer?" to which I replied, "Well, it's better than cutting salamies." That gig evolved into Bathsheba Goldberg and her Wandering Shoes.

Jane will be signing her book and doing some "Rhythm & Schmooze" during the show.
Date: Saturday, May 16, 2009 at 7:30pm
Location: Gary & Laura Maurer Concert Hall ?4544 N. Lincoln Ave.?Chicago, IL 60625?Click for map and directions
Tickets: $20 General Public; $18 Old Town School Members; $16 Seniors & Children?Click here to buy tickets online or call the box office at 773.728.6000
More information: Visit www.oldtownschool.org

================================= 
 
I Still Love H.E.R. (atributetohiphop)

Press Invite and Release for?Chicago's Hip-Hop Theatre Phenomenon ? ?CHICAGO– "Absolutely Amazing..." "Brilliantly captures the true essence of Hip-Hop" "This show is incredible!"  After months of stellar reviews and sold out performances, Theori Productions Inc. is proud to announce that the Hip-Hop theater masterpiece, "I Still Love H.E.R. (atributetohiphop)", has been extended to August 29, 2009.  Since it's opening night in January, the underground sensation has exploded into a mainstream powerhouse. Written by Chicagoan Wendell Tucker and Choreographed by Jeremy Noah this sociological musical takes the audience on an insightful tour down memory lane, while taking time to examine conditions and events that gave birth to the cultural phenomena known as Hip-Hop.
 
“I Still Love H.E.R.” centers on Love 1, a revered Chicago on-air personality who is about to begin his final broadcast. In the midst of his farewell show, Hip-Hop, personified, arrives to tell her story the way it really is. Through the dialogue that follows, Love 1 and his listeners are told the story of Hip-Hop through her own words. Social issues such as feminism, parenting, racism, capitalist media domination and violence in the Hip-Hop community are examined throughout the show, with relevant Hip-Hop classics as the backdrop. By the end of his broadcast, Love 1 reconciles his love affair with his culture and realizes that he must "always take time to listen to the soundtrack of his life.”
 
“‘I Still Love H.E.R.’ is an important step towards the healing of an ailing generation,” said director and playwright Wendell Tucker. “Although this modern tale of cultural pride is definitely catered to the generation that actually grew up with Hip-Hop, age 25 and older, the positive messages will inspire young people, cause the older generation to think more about their effect on the youth and have anyone with even a casual affinity for Hip-Hop on their feet.”
Through honest dialogue, critical cultural analysis and classic Hip-Hop songs, the culture of Hip-Hop is examined and remedies for change are disclosed. Audience participation is highly encouraged during the show as the lively cast, which features area young people, encourages everyone to live the music they love. This is a must-see event for all interested in Hip-Hop and the development of today’s youth.
 
“I Still Love H.E.R.” plays at the WestTown Studio Theater, Chicago Center for the Performing Arts. Show times are: Thursdays, 7:30 p.m.; Fridays, 7:30 p.m.; and Saturdays,  9:30 p.m. General Admission $10. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 312-733-6000 or go www.thetheori.com or www.theaterland.com.
 
For Reviews Please go to: http://chicago.metromix.com/theater/theater_event/i-still-love-h-river-west/844181/content

================================= 


*WEST COAST * 
NEWS UPDATES & EVENTS 
-----------------------------------------------------
LA IRONWORKS

Presents

Steve Zee at the M Bar 
Volume 5

Saturday, May 23rd 
8 PM

One Show Only!

With:

Live Jazz Trio!
Louis Durra
Domenic Genova
Aaron Williams

and special guest:

Tap Dancer
Sarah Reich

$15 Cover and $10 Food Minimum 

For Tickets, Call 800-838-3006

or 

www.brownpapertickets.com

M BAR
1253 North Vine Street
Hollywood, CA 90038
323-856-0036
=====================================


CELEBRATE NATIONAL TAP DANCE DAY
AND SARAH'S 20TH BIRTHDAY!
Tap Jams! Tap Footage! Live Music! Free Food!
All dancers, musicians, friends and family invited
When: Monday, May 25th from 2:00PM until 10:00PM
Where: LA Hoofer's House (4271 Madison Avenue - Culver City, CA)
More Info: Contact Sarah Reich at sourtaps@yahoo.com

=====================================

Monday Night Tap Experience

Hey LA hoofers! I put together this Monday Night Tap Experience for young hoofers to hone their teaching and improvisational skills. Each Monday night features a different teacher, who will teach an intermediate/ advanced level class for an hour and 15 minutes. After the class, everyone is welcome to participate in a tap jam.

All classes will be from 7:00- 8:15 pm. The tap jam is open to all tap dancers from 8:30- 9:30 pm.
This event will be held at my home studio: 4271 Madison Ave. Culver City, CA 90232, back house!
The class and jam is ONLY $5.00!!!

MAY’S LINE UP:
May 11, 2009- Maddie Schwartz

May 18, 2009- Kenji Igus

May 25, 2009- National Tap Day Celebration (2pm- 10pm)

***If you are interested in teaching at this event please contact me at sourtaps@yahoo.com or 310-963-3165

Please spread the word and lets get the LA Tap Community really tappenin’!

Much love and Respect,

SARAH REICH
www.sourtaps.com

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 *WORLD-WIDE * 
NEWS UPDATES & EVENTS 
-----------------------------------------------------
Pandit Chitresh Das is awarded the nation's highest honor in 
the folk and traditional arts 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact: 
Liz Stark, 202-682-5744, starke@arts.gov 

Program Contact: 
Barry Bergey202-682-5726, bergeyb@arts.gov 

National Endowment for the Arts Announces 2009 NEA National Heritage Fellowship Recipients 

This award is the nation's highest honor in the folk and
traditional arts 

Washington, DC - The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) today announced the 2009 recipients of the nation's highest honor in the folk and traditional arts, the NEA National Heritage Fellowships. Eleven fellowships, which include a one-time award of $25,000 each, are presented to honorees from eight states and Puerto Rico. The NEA National Heritage Fellowships public programs are made possible through the support of the Darden Restaurants Foundation and its family of Red Lobster, Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, The Capital Grille, Bahama Breeze, and Seasons 52 restaurants. 

The 2009 awardees were chosen for their artistic excellence and contributions to their respective artistic traditions. They represent a cross-section of ethnic cultures including Cambodian, North Indian, and West African, and promote such diverse traditional art forms as accordion-driven zydeco, willow basketry, and Yoruba sacred song and drumming. National Endowment for the Arts Acting Chair Patrice Walker Powell said, "The NEA is proud to celebrate these artists whose lifetime of service and dedication preserve our nation's diverse cultural heritage." 
The 2009 NEA National Heritage Fellowship recipients are: 
Birmingham Sunlights, A cappella Gospel Group, Birmingham, AL
Chitresh Das, Kathak Dancer and Choreographer, San Francisco, CA
LeRoy Graber, German-Russian Willow Basketmaker, Freeman, SD
"Queen" Ida Guillory, Zydeco Musician, San Francisco, CA
Dudley Laufman, Dance Caller and Musician, Canterbury, NH
Amma D. McKen, Yoruba Orisha Singer Brooklyn, NY
Joel Nelson, Cowboy Poet, Alpine, TX
Teri Rofkar, Tlingit Weaver and Basketmaker, Sitka, AK
Sophiline Cheam Shapiro, Cambodian Classical Dancer and Choreographer, Long Beach, CA
Edwin Colon Zayas, Cuatro Player, Orocovis, PR

The 2009 Bess Lomax Hawes Award is awarded to Mike Seeger, a musician, cultural scholar, and advocate from Lexington, Virginia. The Bess Lomax Hawes Award recognizes an individual who has made a significant contribution to the preservation and awareness of cultural heritage. 

Profiles of the artists are available in the Lifetime Honors section of the NEA's Web site: www.nea.gov.

Among the diverse arts represented this year is a broad range of dance traditions, from Cambodian classical dance to improvisatory Kathak (North Indian) solo dance to the old-time social dance deeply rooted in pre-Revolutionary New England rural heritage. Two other musical forms honored, Yoruba sacred song and drumming, as well as accordion-driven zydeco music, are closely associated with dance. Another common theme among the fellows is their commitment to education and training in their art; for example, Chitresh Das has been teaching and mentoring students for the past 38 years and, and LeRoy Graber demonstrates his craft at local schools and teaches basketmaking in the apprenticeship programs of South and North Dakota. 

These honorees join the ranks of previous Heritage Fellows, including bluesman B.B. King, Cajun fiddler and composer Michael Doucet, cowboy poet Wally McRae, gospel and soul singer Mavis Singer, and bluegrass musician Bill Monroe. Since 1982, the Endowment has awarded 349 NEA National Heritage Fellowships. Fellowship recipients are nominated by the public, often by members of their own communities, and then judged by a panel of experts in folk and traditional arts on the basis of their continuing artistic accomplishments and contributions as practitioners and teachers. This year a 10-member panel reviewed 240 nominations for the 11 fellowships. The ratio of winners to nominees indicates the select nature of this national honor. 

The 2009 awardees will come to Washington, D.C. in September for a series of events including a banquet at the Library of Congress and an awards presentation on Capitol Hill as well as a concert scheduled for Thursday, September 24, 2009 at the Music Center at Strathmore in Bethesda, Maryland. 

Darden Restaurants, Inc., (NYSE: DRI), the world's largest full-service restaurant company, owns and operates more than 1,700 restaurants that generate $7 billion in annual sales. Headquartered in Orlando, and employing 180,000 people, Darden is recognized for a culture that rewards caring for and responding to people. Our restaurant brands - Red Lobster, Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, The Capital Grille, Bahama Breeze and Seasons 52 - reflect the rich diversity of those who dine with us. Our brands are built on deep insights into what our guests want. For more information, please visit www.darden.com. 

The National Endowment for the Arts is a public agency dedicated to supporting excellence in the arts, both new and established; bringing the arts to all Americans; and providing leadership in arts education. Established by Congress in 1965 as an independent agency of the federal government, the Arts Endowment is the largest annual national funder of the arts, bringing great art to all 50 states, including rural areas, inner cities, and military bases.

=================================

Monsters Official Release

SPECIAL EXCLUSIVE ANNOUCEMENT FROM MONSTERS DANCE CONVENTIONS

Season 4 of America's Best Dance Crew on
MTV has JUST been announced!

We're looking for DYNAMIC crews in ALL STYLES!
 You've seen what it takes to be the BEST...
Can you TOP the JabbaWockeeZ?
FLY like Super Cr3w?
TRICK like Quest?
FREAK the BEAT like the Beat Freaks?
If so, come and show us your skills and don't FAKE the FUNK!
Auditions will be in Los Angles on June 6th, Chicago June 9th, Orlando June 11th,
and New York City on June 14th!
 
Check out the attached flyer,
and visit our myspace page for more info.

FOR A PRIORITY AUDITION PLEASE CALL
AND REGISTER YOUR CREW!
877-434-CREW (2739)?EMAIL: thecrew@mtvnmix.com?

WEBSITE : www.myspace.com/DanceCrewCasting

=================================
www.divinerhythmproductions.com
EMPOWER YOUR SOLE!