American Tap Dance Foundation

- P.O. Box 80, Paterson, NY 10036

In the heart of New York City, a city built on rhythm and movement, a special organization keeps a unique American art form alive and thriving. The American Tap Dance Foundation (ATDF) stands as a beacon for tap dance enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike. This non-profit organization is passionately dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and creation of tap dance. Since its founding by tap legends Brenda Bufalino, Tony Waag, and the late Charles “Honi” Coles, the ATDF has been a central force in the tap community, serving as a hub for dancers from all over the world. More than just a dance studio, it is a resource center, a performance space, and a community for everyone who loves the intricate music made with their feet. The foundation's mission is to foster an appreciation for tap dance as an art form and a unique American cultural treasure, ensuring its rich history and innovative future are celebrated and shared.

The ATDF is led by its Director, Tony Waag, a respected tap dancer and choreographer. Under his guidance, the foundation provides a welcoming and vibrant home for tap artists and students of all backgrounds. Their programs are comprehensive, catering to a diverse audience, from young children taking their first steps to seasoned professionals honing their craft. The foundation is a cornerstone of the tap community, known for its annual Rhythm in Motion festival and the American Tap Dance Orchestra, which showcase incredible talent and continue to push the boundaries of the art form. The ATDF has a deep-seated commitment to education, performance, and community-building, making it a vital institution in New York City’s cultural landscape.

The American Tap Dance Foundation has a physical presence that is central to the New York City dance scene. Their offices and studios, while listed with a mailing address of P.O. Box 80, Paterson, NY 10036, are a key part of the city's vibrant arts culture. The listed P.O. box is for administrative and mailing purposes, but their main operations are located in a prime Manhattan location that is easily accessible. Their studio spaces are strategically placed to serve the bustling population of New York City.

Accessibility is a priority for the ATDF, and the physical location has a wheelchair-accessible entrance. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that their classes and events are open to everyone. Located in a central New York City neighborhood, the studio is highly accessible via the city’s extensive public transportation system. Multiple subway lines, including the A, C, E, 1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, and W trains, have stations within a short walking distance. Bus routes also serve the area, making it convenient for residents of all five boroughs and beyond to attend classes and performances. The central location also means that it is surrounded by a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a perfect destination for a full day of activity in the city.

The American Tap Dance Foundation offers a diverse range of services designed to serve the needs of the entire tap dance community.

• Dance Classes for All Levels: They offer an extensive schedule of classes for absolute beginners, intermediate students, and advanced professionals.
• Youth Programs: Specialized classes and workshops are available for children and teenagers, including the Tap City Youth Ensemble, which provides performance opportunities for young dancers.
• Professional Training Programs: The Foundation hosts intensives and master classes with world-renowned tap artists, offering unparalleled training for serious students and professionals.
• Community Events: They organize regular events, including tap jams and open houses, which provide a welcoming space for dancers to connect and improvise.
• Performances and Festivals: ATDF produces major events like the annual "Tap City, the New York City Tap Festival," which celebrates the art form with performances, classes, and discussions.
• Educational Resources: They serve as a repository of tap dance history, with a wealth of resources including a tap archive, videos, and scholarly materials.
• Showcases: Students have the opportunity to perform in showcases, like the Christmas showcase mentioned in a review, which provides a supportive environment for new and experienced dancers to share their progress.

The American Tap Dance Foundation is a standout institution due to several unique features and highlights that make it a leader in its field.

• A faculty of "amazing teachers" who are not only skilled dancers but also patient and inspiring educators. This is a key reason why it is considered "one of the best tap dancing school in the nation."
• The price of classes is "unbeatable," making high-quality tap education accessible to a wider audience.
• It is a non-profit organization, which means its focus is on the art form itself and the community, not on commercial profit. This fosters a supportive and authentic environment.
• The community is incredibly welcoming, as one reviewer, an "absolute absolute absolute beginner," felt like a "star" after performing in a showcase. This positive reinforcement is a testament to the supportive culture created by the director, Tony Waag, and the entire staff.
• They offer a place where dancers can "feel like home," as expressed by a long-time student who has tried other schools in NYC but found nothing comparable to ATDF.
• The organization's commitment to the preservation of tap dance history ensures that students are not just learning steps but also connecting with the rich heritage of the art form.
• The variety of classes for "all levels and all ages" makes it a perfect destination for anyone interested in tap, from a young child to a senior adult.

For all inquiries and to get in touch with the American Tap Dance Foundation, please use the following contact information.

Address: P.O. Box 80, Paterson, NY 10036, USA

Phone: (646) 230-9564

Why should you choose the American Tap Dance Foundation? The answer is clearly articulated by those who have experienced it firsthand. The ATDF provides an unparalleled combination of expert instruction, affordability, and a genuinely welcoming community. The glowing reviews from both a seasoned six-year veteran and a brand-new beginner highlight the foundation's ability to cater to everyone. For the beginner, the experience of feeling like a "star" in a showcase speaks to the nurturing and encouraging atmosphere that Tony Waag and his team have cultivated. For the experienced dancer, the fact that the ATDF is considered "one of the best tap dancing school in the nation" and superior to other NYC options underscores the quality of the teachers and the depth of the curriculum. The ATDF is a non-profit, which means every dollar goes back into the community and the art form, providing an exceptional value. Whether you're an adult looking for a fun new hobby, a parent hoping to get your child started in dance, or a professional seeking to deepen your craft, the American Tap Dance Foundation offers a unique opportunity to learn from the best while becoming part of a thriving and supportive community. It is more than a school; it is a home for tap dance in New York City.

American Tap Dance Foundation

P.O. Box 80, Paterson, NY 10036, USA