Founded by sisters Maud and Emmy-nominated choreographer Chloe Arnold, Syncopated Ladies is the most-viewed female tap dance group in history, and they are coming to Walton Arts Center Sunday, Jan. 26 at 4 pm.
Known for their viral, self-produced content, they have been recognized by Beyonce who not only shared their work but also invited them to perform live with her internationally. They went on to amass over 100 million views online - the most of any female tap dance troupe in history. They also appeared on season 11 of “So You Think You Can Dance.”
"We wanted to start a movement to show how powerful black women in tap dance are," Maud, told the Huffington Post. "Just how black culture influences the world ... my sister and I, as black women, have been able to influence the world of dance."
“We are on a mission to take the Syncopated Ladies show worldwide, create jobs and help facilitate careers for aspiring young dancers, and to provide access and education to inner city youth,” Maud explained to HuffPost. “As African American women in this field, there's a history of being marginalized and really not adequately acknowledged. We're here to change that and show young girls around the world that if we get in formation, our voices will be heard.”
Syncopated Ladies have received praise from Whoopi Goldberg, Janet Jackson, Ciara, Lupita Nyong’o and many more. Their live show is a celebration of sisterhood, empowerment and Black Girl Magic, featuring cutting-edge music, intricate footwork, feminine prowess and life-renewing energy.
“Dancing has always been a part of our lives culturally if you think about various African cultures and where we come from,” Pamela Yasutake, company dancer, told ARTS ATL. “Tap dance in particular is an art form that was created by enslaved Africans. It’s an art form of protest, and I think for all of us we carry that on and use our art as activism.”
Syncopated Ladies are built on a value system of sisterhood, solidarity, unity and lifting each other up, Arnold emphasized. These skills can be developed, but the heart, soul and genuineness must already be there. She also explained that teamwork makes the dream work and every member of Syncopated Ladies is a multi-talented woman in her own right.
Experience a high-energy, exciting performance by this iconic female tap dance group. Tickets are $10 - $25 and can be purchased by visiting waltonartscenter.org, by calling 479.443.5600 weekdays 10 am until 5 pm or in-person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm.
