You Should Know: Emma Wylie

February 13, 2017

Two years ago, at age 15, tap dancer Emma Wylie took a chance and moved to NYC by herself. Now 17, she’s seen that risk pay off: She’s an understudy for Dorrance Dance, headed by tap pioneer Michelle Dorrance, and is mentored by two more tap world luminaries, Derick K. Grant and RONxII (pronounced “Ron Ron”). The three of them founded their own tap company, 151 RED, in 2015.

But Emma’s resumé isn’t confined to concert dance. You may have a chance to see her on the big screen, dancing in the film Breaking Brooklyn, which was choreographed by Jared Grimes and is currently in production.

“I recently found an old journal describing every detail of my first tap class and how amazing it was. I’ve studied lots of different forms of dance and art, but tap is the only thing that truly feels like home.”
—Emma Wylie

Fast Facts!

Birthday:
August 31, 1999

Hometown:
Memphis, TN

Studios:
Broadway Dance Center, Steps on Broadway, Exile Professional Gym

Favorite dancer:
Warren Craft

Hidden talent:
“I can kind of ride a unicycle.”

Favorite food:
“Chocolate cake! Especially the kind with nine layers.”

Favorite step:
“I don’t have a favorite. For me, a dope rhythm is more exciting.”

Three words that describe her dancing:
“Soft, elegant and precise”

Proudest accomplishment:
“Being featured in Dance Spirit! I grew up reading the You Should Know page and never thought I’d be considered.”

Non-dance hobbies:
“I’m such an old lady. I love to bake and read. I also like exploring other art forms, like drawing and ceramics.”

Advice for
Dance Spirit
readers:
“Take care of your body! Dancers push themselves way too hard and can get injured or burned out. Take occasional days of rest.”