Stephanie Vadala

Stephanie Vadala is a seasoned performer, choreographer, educator, and producer. With 40 years of dance and almost two decades in the DMV, she has brought her passion for tap dance into every room she’s in. Stephanie  teaches weekly at Knock on Wood Tap Studio, Dance Place, and is adjunct faculty at American University. Most recently, she completed the first phase of the Canadian-based Heather Cornell Legacy Project which provided opportunities to collaborate with live musicians, and study with dance and musical mentors of high acclaim. Stephanie has been mentored by Heather Cornell and Heidi Schultz, while also working closely with Dianne Walker, Max Pollak, and Andy Milne (pianist). This speaks to her never-ending desire to learn and grow, and can be found shuffling around North America taking classes at various tap festivals. 

In the fall of 2023, she created two new tap babies: Firstly, The Wood Collective. TWC is an organization aiming to provide enrichment opportunities to the tap community through workshops, jams, hangs, and history. By gathering outside of classes, TWC also remains focused on their goal of building community. Second, Rooted In Rhythm, is a project-based performance tap company. Most recently they were seen performing at the Transformations Dance Festival and have also performed at Joe’s Movement Emporium & Atlas Performing Arts Center. Their motto being, “The members may flow in and out, but our connection remains “rooted in rhythm”. 

Driven by her love for her craft, she hopes to spread her love of dance beyond the DMV and the rest of the U.S.

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