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Monday, November 11, 2024

Andrew Nemr named as new artistic director of Vancouver Tap Dance Society

Alberta-born performer, choreographer, educator and TED fellow returns to Canada after 25 years of honing his craft in New York

In a media release, the Vancouver Tap Dance Society (VanTap) announced Andrew Nemr as its new artistic director. Nemr replaces Sas Selfjord who is retiring as executive director of the organization she founded along with Lana Caput in 1996.

“In my 22 years providing leadership to VanTap, I have often realized dreams we never thought possible,” says Selfjord in the release. “Having Andrew offer his energy, insight and leadership to this magnificent organization is another dream come true. It is such an honour to welcome him and I am sure the future will require sunglasses.”

The Alberta-born Nemr returns to Canada after 25 years of honing his craft in New York City among some of the greats of the tap world including Gregory Hines, Dianne Walker, Ted Levy, Mable Lee, Harold Cromer, Dr. Jimmy Slyde and Savion Glover.

Nemr, who assumes the new position at the end of October, says he is excited to focus his energy and talents in Vancouver and especially at VanTap, a not-for-profit organization he sees as uniquely positioned to provide a North American hub for tap dance.

“VanTap provides the best of both worlds for me: a space to explore artistically and a place to pass on the lessons I’ve learned from my many mentors,” says Nemr. “That’s a rare combination as opportunities go. I am honored and excited to be entrusted with the reins moving forward.”

Among his other accomplishments Nemr has played with Grammy Award-winning musicians across multiple genres, founded the tap dance company Cats Paying Dues, directs the Tap Dance Freedom education platform, and co-founded the Tap Legacy Foundation, Inc., along with his mentor Gregory Hines.

Founded in 1996, Vancouver Tap Dance Society has led a resurgence in tap dance in North America. At its core is an academy that teaches tap to students of all ages, body types, and abilities.

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