Michael Waldrop

Michael Waldrop has been recognized as not only a dynamic performer, but also an innovative choreographer and instructor. Always being led by the passion for dance, he has had the opportunity to train, assist, and work alongside some of today's most recognized choreographers, including Grover Dale, Henry Le Tang, Jason Samuels-Smith, Jackie Sleight, Sallie Whalen, and Stefan Wenta.

As a commercial performer, Michael has appeared in film, television, print, and stage productions including the feature film "Underground Comedy" with Josie Walsh, Nickelodeon's "Fresh Beat Band" with Mary Ann Kellogg, the Emmy Award winning opening routine of the "Jerry Lewis Telethon" with Jason Samuels-Smith, industrials for Disney's "Bolt" and "Toy Story 3," as well as an edition of "Life Magazine," which recognized some of Los Angeles' most talented tap dancers. Other credits include choreography for the tribute to Sallie Whalen at the "American Choreography Awards" and the short film "On the Streets of Hollywood" for the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Michael has also performed soloist and principal roles with California's "Luminario Ballet of Los Angeles," "Pasadena Dance Theatre," "Monat Dance," and "Clairobscur Dance Company," as well as Utah's "Odyssey Dance Theatre" and Kansas' "Seamless Dance Theater." Performances have included the contemporary and classical works of Peter Chu, Bella Lewinsky, Sophie Monat, Josie Walsh, and Cynthia Young.

Michael regularly instructs classes in tap, jazz, ballet, and lyrical throughout Southern California, as well as workshops around the country. He has been on faculty at some of Los Angeles' most popular studios, including IDA Hollywood and Dance Arts Academy. No matter the level, his classes challenge students mentally and physically, encouraging technical improvement and artistic maturity in a positive, judgement-free environment.