faculty
Melissa
Tap
Melissa Tannús, cited by Dance Spirit Magazine as one of “Tap’s Leading Ladies,” is a world-renowned tap dancer, educator, and choreographer who has made an indelible mark on the dance community. Originally from Brazil, Melissa moved to the United States to pursue her dream of becoming a professional tap dancer. With her exceptional talent, passion, and dedication, she quickly rose to prominence, becoming a sought-after artist in the global tap dance scene.
Melissa has been a key member of renowned tap companies, including Chloe Arnold’s Syncopated Ladies and Tapestry Dance Company. Her artistry and innovative choreography have taken her to prestigious stages around the world, from Universal Studios Hollywood to the US Open. Melissa’s dynamic stage presence and intricate footwork have also earned her multiple TV appearances on major platforms such as So You Think You Can Dance, The Late Late Show, America’s Got Talent, and various local news segments. Her work has been featured in prestigious publications like The New York Times, LA Times, DanceSpirit Magazine, Dance Magazine, and influential dance blogs, all of which have praised her skill, creativity, and influence on the tap dance world.
Melissa’s passion for tap dance extends beyond performance. As an educator, she has taught and choreographed internationally, inspiring dancers across the globe in countries including Australia, the UK, Guatemala, Chile, Brazil, and more. Her work as a teacher is deeply rooted in her belief that tap dance can serve as both an artistic and personal journey for every dancer. Melissa’s innovative approach to tap emphasizes musicality, precision, and expression, making her a beloved mentor to dancers of all ages and skill levels.
In addition to her teaching, Melissa has directed and choreographed for several esteemed dance companies. She was the director of Tapestry Too and founded her own group, Tap Com Mel, where she nurtured dancers and showcased her unique choreographic voice. Melissa’s influence on the tap community extends to her work as the producer and director of the San Francisco Tap Festival, an annual event that brings together top tap artists, students, and enthusiasts from around the world. Under her leadership, the festival has become a major hub for tap dance education and performance.
Melissa was formerly a full-time Theatrical Tap Instructor at the University of California, San Diego, where she played a pivotal role in shaping the academic and artistic journeys of many tap students. While she now resides on the East Coast, she continues to return periodically to guest teach, sharing her expertise with aspiring dancers. In 2023, Melissa also joined the faculty of Immerse Artists Experience for its fifth season, where she continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of dancers.
Beyond her teaching and performing, Melissa is deeply committed to preserving and evolving the art form of tap dance, advocating for its place in contemporary dance and inspiring others to find their own voices through rhythm and movement. Her story is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and the impact it can have on an entire community of dancers.
A proud Brazilian artist, Melissa continues to live her life immersed in the art she loves, inspiring dancers worldwide to pursue their dreams with the same dedication and passion that she has for tap. Her contributions to the global tap dance community ensure that her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.