Kazunori Kumagai

Kazunori Kumagai “Kaz” is a "True Tap Artist” (New York Times), who is always searching his expression through the sounds and the rhythm. At age 19, Kaz came to NY and trained in the New York Shakespeare Festival Institute of tap “Funk University" the training workshop for the big hit Broadway musical Bring in da' Noise, Bring in 'da Funk. Since then he has been performing and teaching all over the world. He is the recipient of numerous awards such as the 2016 Bessie Award “Outstanding Performer,” 2014 Flo-Bert Award, and 2006 Dance Magazine “25 to Watch.” And recently News Week Japan selected him as one of the “100 Most influential Japanese People in the World.” In 2008, he opened his first tap dance studio—KAZ TAP STUDIO—in Japan and has been trying to pass his knowledge and passion to next generation. 2019-20 Kaz was a 92Y Harkness Artist in Residence, and he presented his solo performance “Hear/Here.” In 2021, Kaz was featured one of the main performer for the TOKYO OLYMPIC 2020 Opening Ceremony. Not only he performed but also choreographed and composed two songs for the ceremony.

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