FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
San Diego Tap and Jazz Dance Festival Returns November 21–23, 2025
An International Celebration of Music, Movement, and Community — Led by Women of Diverse Backgrounds
San Diego, CA — October 2025 — The Annual San Diego Tap and Jazz Dance Festival returns November 21–23, 2025, bringing an extraordinary celebration of rhythm, artistry, and connection to the heart of San Dieg
o. Dedicated to enriching the city’s vibrant dance and music culture, this international festival welcomes participants of all ages and skill levels—from beginners to seasoned professionals. The festival is produced and directed by Claudia Gomez, a faculty dance educator for TK–8th grade students at Keiller Leadership Academy and owner of Tap In With Claudia. She is joined by co-directors Summer Williams, owner of RAPATAP, and Michela Marino Lerman of New York City. Together, these visionary women—representing diverse backgrounds and global experiences—lead an inspiring celebration of inclusion, artistry, and community through the language of tap and jazz. Each year, the festival continues to grow, attracting world-renowned artists and educators whose work spans Broadway, Cirque du Soleil, and major television productions. Among this year’s acclaimed faculty are Michela Marino Lerman, celebrated protégé of tap legend Gregory Hines, and Josette Wiggan, who performed with Cirque du Soleil and continues to inspire audiences worldwide through her dynamic artistry.
“This festival is a celebration of collaboration, culture, and the power of women leading in the arts,” said Claudia Gomez, Producer and Director of the San Diego Tap and Jazz Dance Festival. “As an educator at Keiller Leadership Academy, I see every day how dance transforms confidence and builds community. Through this festival, we’re continuing that mission—bringing together artists of all ages and backgrounds to inspire, learn, and share the joy of rhythm and movement.”
A Weekend of Movement, Music, and Inspiration
The 2025 festival will take place at Keiller Leadership Academy in Encanto/Southeast San Diego—reflecting the festival’s mission to expand access to the arts across the city’s diverse communities. The Academy’s director, Tertia Sartain, a noted choreographer for So You Think You Can Dance, brings her own passion for mentorship and artistic excellence to the event. Friday, November 21 – The festival opens with the Tap Jam Opening Ceremony at Panama 66, located at the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park. Guests will enjoy a live jazz band, energetic performances, and local food and libations in one of San Diego’s most beloved cultural venues. Saturday, November 22 – A full day of master classes and workshops culminates in the Faculty Jazz Concert, featuring the festival’s distinguished instructors and a live jazz band at the Keiller Leadership Academy Auditorium. Sunday, November 23 – The weekend concludes with the Student Showcase, spotlighting performances by festival participants, local dance studios, and guest companies—a joyful finale celebrating creativity, collaboration, and community. Tickets and Registration
Early bird packages are available through October 31, with flexible options for full-weekend passes, individual master classes, and performance tickets. For registration and ticket information, visit www.sandiegotapandjazz.com
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