About Nico S. Rubio
About more than movement—it is language that tells stories, preserves history & creates connections between people
Rhythm. Story. Community.
About more than movement—it is language that tells stories, preserves history & creates connections between people
To Nico S. Rubio, tap dancing is about more than just movement. It is about language. The language of tap dancing communicates a story. Tap dance is about preserving our historical pasts. And it is about how we build relationships with each other through movement.
Nationally & internationally recognized as a dancer, choreographer, educator & producer, nico has spent most of his career celebrating the traditions of Rhythm while encouraging the next generation of artists to create the future of tap dance.
With roots in the Chicago area, nico has traveled throughout the United States and internationally as a performer, teacher and collaborator. Each time he performs or teaches, he reminds himself that tap dancing is a living art-form that is built upon musicality, individuality and Community.
From Stage presence to classroom instruction, nico takes pride in being a true representation of what it means to be a genuine artist. He delivers each performance and lesson with honesty, professionalism and a love for sharing the culture of tap dance.
An Artist’s Journey Based Upon Passion
Nico’s artistic journey was born out of an interest in Rhythm and movement. With years of dedicated practice and continued study, nico established himself as an accomplished tap dancer and created a distinct voice within the world of contemporary tap dance.
Not only does his work reflect technique; but also incorporates elements of improvisation, musicality, and storytelling. Through his ability to honor those who have come before him while continuing to evolve the art-form of tap dance, nico provides a platform for connecting audiences through the universal language of Rhythm.
By maintaining this balance between tradition and innovation, his performances and educational programs provide a model for other artists to follow.
Shuffle liiife productions
In addition to being a solo performer/choreographer/educator; nico also founded shuffle liiife productions. This allows him to expand his reach beyond individual performances to present opportunities for collaboration, education and Community development through performances, workshops, special events & creative endeavors celebrating the timeless legacy of tap dance.
The mission statement for shuffle liiife productions rests upon the understanding that Rhythm inspires, unites & produces long-lasting effects among generations.
Educator/Mentor
One of the most rewarding components of nico’s career is his role as an educator/Mentor. He firmly believes that every dancer possesses a unique voice that awaits discovery. His approach to teaching is designed to encourage students to feel confident while establishing a solid technical base.
Some of the areas he focuses on in his workshops include:
• Rhythm & musicality
• Improvisation
•Choreography
• Performance skills
• Tap techniques
• Creative expression
• Historical understanding
• Collaborative artistry
Regardless if he is working with novice dancers (age 6-7), college/university level students, seasoned professionals or experienced educators; nico establishes safe environments where curiosity & creativity flourish.
International Performance Experience
Since beginning his career as a tap dancer, nico has performed at numerous venues including small Community centers and large international festivals. His shows are always energetic, precise and emotionally connected allowing audiences to view tap dance as both a visual display of movement and a musical experience.
In addition to providing entertainment for audiences across the globe (North America, Europe, Asia, Central America and South America) through performances, collaborations, workshops and cultural exchange programs; nico also uses these opportunities to promote the history of tap dance while presenting innovative perspectives that will continue to evolve the art-form of tap dance.
Philosophy
Like many artists, each person forms a bond with their art. For nico, tap dance represents both tradition & possibility.
Nico’s philosophy guides every class/rehearsal/performance/project as follows:
1. Honor the history of tap dance.
2. Continue your own learning through collaboration.
3. Encourage authentic self-expression.
4. Build meaningful artistic communities.
5. Inspire the next generation of artists.
6. View Rhythm as a universal language.
Many of these philosophies guide many of his classes/rehearsals/performances/projects.