Barbara Duffy is everywhere. What hasn’t she done? This incredible teacher, dancer, and choreographer seems to pop up at every Tap Dance event around the world to share her talent. She’s performed at countless events, solo shows, and with her own company. She is truly a master of her craft.

Barbara has studied with many of the great Tap legends such as Gregory Hines, Brenda Bufalino, and Leon Collins which have greatly influenced her style. When you watch her dance you can feel the syncopations of Leon, see the intricate footwork of Ms. Bufalino, and hear the innovations inspired by the late great Gregory Hines. Her feet barely leave the ground as she rattles off monster sounds and rhythms. Her stage presence and passion captivate her audiences. She’s energetic, creative, and soulful.

Barbara Duffy has so much knowledge that she offers up to her students. She’s a great teacher who leaves a lasting impression, and you will always carry something away from her class that will stay with you forever. I had several “ah-ha” light bulb moments when I took her residency two years ago at Tap City. She has a way of teaching you things you already know, but in a different way that somehow makes perfect sense. She teaches you how to use your whole body (including your voice) and incorporate it into the rhythm of the music. One of the most important lessons I learned from her was not to wait for “it” to happen, DECIDE what you are going to say and then say it! If you are able to sing out the rhythms, then your feet will follow. Don’t be afraid to improvise and make mistakes, this is how we learn!

Barbara is so creative in taking what she’s learned from her teachers and turning it into something contemporary with a hint of history. Barbara is a huge part of this generation of Tap because of her ability to use her rich history and pass it along to the next generation in a way they can relate to and understand.