Tap Dance | Program Director
July 28 – August 17
Dormeshia’s journey in tap dance is nothing short of remarkable, marked by her exceptional talent, tireless dedication, and groundbreaking contributions to the art form. Born with rhythm in her veins, Dormeshia’s passion for tap dance started at a young age, propelling her into a lifelong pursuit of excellence.
Throughout her career, Dormeshia has earned the moniker “the queen of tap,” a title bestowed upon her by The New York Times, a testament to her unmatched skill and artistry. She has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Doris Duke Artist Award, the Jacob’s Pillow Dance Award, the Dance Magazine Award, and the Bessie Award. Notably, her electrifying performance in Broadway’s After Midnight earned her an Astaire Award for Best Female Performer.
Beyond her accomplishments on the stage, Dormeshia has also made significant strides as a choreographer and an educator. Her tap choreography for the production of Jelly’s Last Jam at New York City Center received rave reviews. Her first full length work, And Still You Must Swing, captivated audiences and critics alike, earning praise as the “Best of Dance for 2016” and again in 2019, by The New York Times. Dormeshia was also awarded a Bessie Award for Outstanding Creator/Choreographer for her most recent work, Rhythm is Life. Her dedication to preserving and advancing the art of tap dance is further evidenced by her role as the creator and producer of the Ladies in the Shoe Tap Conference, an annual event celebrated during Women’s History Month. Additionally, as a Program Director of the Jacob’s Pillow Tap Dance Program, Dormeshia has played a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of tap dancers, sharing her wisdom and expertise with aspiring artists.
Dormeshia continues to push the boundaries of tap dance while honoring its rich tradition and legacy. Her influence is felt not only in the world of dance but also in popular culture, having served as the tap dance instructor to none other than the legendary Michael Jackson for over a decade. Her inclusion as one of five dancers representing tap dance in the Forever Collection of U.S. Postage Stamps immortalizes her legacy for generations to come.
In addition to her artistic endeavors, Dormeshia is eager to share her passion for tap dance and inspire students with her knowledge and enthusiasm for the art form. As she continues to grace stages around the world, Dormeshia remains a beacon of inspiration, pushing the boundaries of tap dance and leaving an indelible mark on the world of dance.
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