05/18/2026
An Angel Takes His Wings
Skip Cunningham April 24, 1936 - May 12, 2026
We are sad to announce that our dear friend Skip Cunningham has passed. It just doesn't feel real. His incredible support of Tapestry and our Soul 2 Sole Festival was truly a blessing. Skip Bio
Skip and I spent many times on the phone every few weeks talking about his career, his family, his pride of never drinking (even when Frank Sinatra offered one to him after a show), his son (who suffered from muscular dystrophy and got him involved with The Jerry Lewis Telethon) and much more. Unfortunately, his son passed this past December as well.
I cherish the times we have spent together since meeting at The LA Tap Festival over 20 years ago and our paths have crossed many times since. Skip graced Tapestry's Soul 2 Sole Festival in 2018 and again in our last produced festival in 2024 when he received the Soul 2 Sole Legacy Award.
I think one of the most memorable moments (and definitely in the spirit of his soul), was when Tony Waag and The American Tap Dance Foundation honored him with The Hall of Fame Award at the NY Public Library in 2025. When jamming with Jason Samuels Smith in a rhythmic trade, I could see him prepare to do his famous front flip when I saw him place his handkerchief on the floor in preparation to pick it up with his teeth. Luckily, the universe and the slick floor changed that "step" at the last second to a rhythmic pushup/slide on the floor.
Even a few weeks ago at age 89, he swore if the floor were not slippery he would have done it. "I've been doing it all my life."
We'll miss you Skip and I'll always cherish our times together.
Rest in peace and tons of swingin' rhythm,
🎶❤️👣
Acia, Deirdre & The Tapestry Family
