The School at Jacob’s Pillow will connect you to a revered roster of artists as your faculty; acclaimed for their work in the field as well as their teaching and mentoring.
Artist Faculty
Michelle Dorrance
Program Director
Tap Dance
Michelle Dorrance is a New York City-based performer, choreographer, teacher, and the Artistic Director of Dorrance Dance. Mentored by Gene Medler (North Carolina Youth Tap Ensemble), she was lucky to study under many of the last master hoofers.
Dormeshia
Program Director
Tap Dance
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.
LaTasha Barnes
Program Director
Creating in Jazz
Bessie Award winner and New York Times critically acclaimed Breakout Star of 2021, LaTasha Barnes is a multi-hyphenate Tradition-bearer of Black American Social Dance from Richmond, VA. A dynamic educator, performer, and choreographer, Barnes is globally celebrated for her musicality, athleticism, and infectiously joyful presence throughout the cultural traditions she bears.
Derick K. Grant
Program Director
Tap Dance
Derick K. Grant is a native of Boston, MA where he began his training at the Roxbury Center for the Performing Arts. He was an original member of Bring In ‘Da Noise, Bring In ‘Da Funk, created and directed by George C. Wolfe and choreographed by Savion Glover, where he became dance captain and later the lead for the first national tour.
Jason Samuels Smith
Artist Faculty
August 1-15
Jason Samuels Smith, (Tap Dancer, Choreographer, Performer) received an Emmy, Dance Magazine Award, American Choreography Award, and Gregory Hines Humanitarian Award.