Rooted: Ayodele Casel

“Extraordinary,” “astonishing,” “a tap dancer of unquestionable radiance” are just some of the many ways that The New York Times has described Ayodele Casel over the past five years. Her intelligence, charisma and breathtaking skill have made her one of the most acclaimed dancers working today. They have also earned her a 2023 Doris Duke Grant, US Artists Fellowship, and even a spot on a 2021 US Postal stamp, among other honors.

A scholar as well as performer and choreographer, Casel’s rich body of work pays homage to the dancers who came before her. She culminates a two-week residency at Duke with two performances of “Rooted,” an intimate, interactive work that delves into the deep roots of tap dance with live music and a talented company of artists.