You Should Know: Devin Ruth

Tap improvisation is a skill usually reserved for seasoned professionals. But 16-year-old hoofer Devin Ruth, who practices her improv by performing at Smalls Jazz Club in NYC, is ahead of the game. Devin wasn’t always a sleek city tapper—she got her start as a comp kid, training with Mary No at In The Spotlight in Waldwick, NJ, and winning platinums at Tap2You. It was there that Devin met Aaron Tolson, who introduced her to the slinky, rhythmical world of NYC tap. At 13, she joined the Tap City Youth Ensemble, and she continues to train and perform with the company today.

(Photo by David Kaptein Photography)

Fast Facts

Birthday
: January 22, 1998

Hometown
: Wyckoff, NJ

Nondance talent
: “I run hurdles for my school’s track team.”

Performer she’d love to work with
: “I’ve wanted to work with Randy Skinner for a long time, and I’m about to start!”

Favorite food
: chocolate chip cookies

Dance idol
: Gregory Hines

Favorite dance movies
: White Nights and Tap

Dream job
: “Tapping on Broadway!”