American Tap Dance Foundation

Formerly the American Tap Dance Orchestra, ATDF was founded in 1986 by master tap dancers Brenda Bufalino, Tony Waag, and the late Charles ‘Honi’ Coles. From 1986 through 1999, the Orchestra performed in hundreds of concert, stage, and film projects and thrilled audiences around the world. From 1989 to 1995, the company also operated Woodpeckers Tap Dance Center in New York City, and presented on-going classes, performances and related activities. In 2002 with a new generation of tap dancers and enthusiasts, the Orchestra was renamed under the artistic direction and leadership of Tony Waag.

ATDF programs include:

• Tap City, the annual New York City Tap Festival

• the Tap City Youth Ensemble

• Concert Performances & National Tours

• the Gregory Hines Youth Scholarship Fund

• the International Tap Dance Hall of Fame

• Annual Hoofer & Tap Preservation Awards

• the Gregory Hines Collection of American Tap Dance archives at the Lincoln Center Library

American Tap Dance Center opened in 2010 as the home to the American Tap Dance Foundation, and offers year-round educational programs including:

• Tap Dance Conservatory

• Ongoing Classes for Youth, Teens & Adults

• Tap Choreography Intensives & Showcases

• Master Workshops for Professionals

• Artists In Residence Program

• Reconstruction  & Choreography Commission Projects

• Rental Space for rehearsals

• Tap Talks, Jams & Film Presentations