Jason Samuels Smith
Dancer
JASON SAMUELS SMITH is an Emmy Award-winning tap dancer, choreographer, educator, and cultural leader widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in contemporary dance. Born in New York City to legendary jazz dance masters JoJo Smith and Sue Samuels, he carries a multigenerational lineage rooted in the Harlem Renaissance and American artistry. His grandfather Joseph and great-aunt Helena were a tap act and regulars at the Apollo Theater, while his father and grandmother performed with Katherine Dunham's company. A former principal dancer in the Tony Award-winning Broadway production Bring in 'Da Noise, Bring in 'Da Funk, Smith has performed on many of the world's most prestigious stages, including the Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, Jacob's Pillow, Queen Elizabeth Hall, and the Teatro Municipal do Rio de Janeiro. He has collaborated with artists including Michael Jackson, Jennifer Holiday, James Ingram, Debbie Allen, Camille A. Brown, Anita Mann, OutKast, MYA, and Igmar Thomas. Beyond the stage, he designed what is widely regarded as the most influential professional tap shoe in the world for Bloch, reshaping how tap dancers experience sound, precision, and musical expression. His work honors tap's rich cultural heritage while boldly advancing the form for global audiences.
