Chloe Arnold, Emmy-nominated choreographer and co-director of the internationally acclaimed Syncopated Ladies, continues to redefine tap dance for a new generation. A Washington, D.C. native and protégé of Debbie Allen, Arnold blends the rich traditions of tap with contemporary music, creating work that is both rooted and refreshingly modern. Her choreography has reached global audiences across stage and screen, including Spirited, and has earned her an Emmy nomination.
Now, Arnold brings that signature energy to ArtPower Series at University of California San Diego on April 9 with Chloe Arnold’s Syncopated Ladies Live. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the performance begins at 7 p.m., promising an electrifying evening of rhythm, precision, and joy.
Arnold responded to The Chocolate Voice via voice messages, offering thoughtful and candid reflections on her artistry, inspiration, and the evolution of tap dance. Beyond the stage, she remains committed to mentorship through the Chloe and Maud Foundation, helping cultivate the next generation of dancers.
“Your work blends traditional tap with contemporary styles—how do you decide what to preserve and what to reinvent?”
Hi, thank you for doing this interview. The way I decide what stays and what I reinvent is pretty organic, because the language of tap dance is the rhythm you make with your feet. The musicality is always aligned with whatever music we’re using.
Stylistically, because I’ve trained in many styles of dance, I’m inspired physically by the music. The feet stay within the tradition—that’s the rhythm, the art form of making music with your feet. The upper body comes from a place of unique inspiration and my own authenticity.
“Who are some artists—inside or outside dance—who’ve influenced your style recently?”
Honestly, more older artists inspire me, from Debbie Allen to Gregory Hines.
More current artists like Beyoncé, Michael Jackson, and Prince, as well as my peers in Syncopated Ladies, keep me inspired. They’re all so creative, powerful, and strong. And also my tap dancing sister, Maude.
“How do you keep tap evolving for new audiences?”
We pour our passion into everything we do. When people feel your true, genuine passion, it’s magnetic. Thankfully, people have stayed with us on this journey because we really love it—there’s nothing we’d rather be doing.
“Have you seen tangible changes in opportunities for women dancers since you started?”
Absolutely. I can 100 percent say that Maude and I have influenced the next generation of girls to believe they can become successful tap dancers, artists, and build careers in this field. I’m proud of that, and of the work we do through the Chloe and Maude Foundation.
“What did the Emmy nomination mean to you personally and professionally?”
The Emmy nomination meant a lot because it had been on my vision board for a long time. I saw others achieve it and believed I could too. When it happened, it put me in another stratosphere—my name started circulating in new rooms and opened opportunities to bring tap dance into films like Spirited.
“What’s something you wish more young dancers understood about building a career today?”
Nothing happens overnight. You have to work really hard and develop tough skin. Don’t take things personally. Take accountability for your daily routine and responsibilities. Be willing to try again—and if it doesn’t work the first time, maybe it will the thousandth.
“What’s a misconception people often have about tap dance?”
That tap dance is dead. It’s 100 percent not. There are thousands of tap dancers every weekend putting on their shoes and celebrating the art form all around the world. I’ve been to 36 countries—tap is alive and well.
“What keeps you inspired during creative dry spells?”
Being around young people. Kids inspire me—they’re free, authentic, and joyful.
“If you could collaborate with anyone—past or present—who would it be and why?”
Past: Michael Jackson.
Present: Bruno Mars—I’m feeling it in my spirit.
“Favorite song to choreograph to right now?”
“The Way You Make Me Feel” by Michael Jackson.
“A move or step you never get tired of?”
Cramp roll. Favorite step.
“One word that describes your style?”
Fly. Free.
As Syncopated Ladies take the stage at ArtPower Series, audiences won’t just witness a performance—they’ll experience a living, evolving art form driven by passion and purpose. Through her work, Chloe Arnold continues to prove that tap dance is not only alive, but thriving—carried forward by rhythm, resilience, and a commitment to authenticity. And if her words are any indication, this performance won’t just entertain—it will inspire.
Click HERE for tickets