ROSIE SHARKEY | DANCE ARTIST
JAZZ (MULTIPLE STYLES) • TAP • MUSICAL THEATER AS STORY • RHYTHM
Rosie Sharkey is one of our most accomplished and versatile teaching artists, with over 30 years of experience in jazz (multiple styles), tap, and musical theatre—forms deeply rooted in African American cultural traditions, social history, and community storytelling. She treats dance as both art and living oral history, connecting students to rhythm, music, movement, and the cultural contexts in which these forms evolved. Rosie began her career in Campbell, CA, then moved to Los Angeles, choreographing and performing in stage productions, music videos, and independent films. She has taught in studios, community centers, and schools across the West Coast, leading programs for ages 7 to 85. A 500-hour Registered Yoga Teacher, Rosie blends artistry with an understanding of anatomy and accessibility, ensuring every student can participate fully. Her classes are high-energy, musically rich, and designed to spark confidence, creativity, and joy.
GRADE LEVELS
Pairs well with 3rd–12th grade and adaptable for after-school clubs and community programs.
ART FORMS
Dance • Jazz (multiple styles) • Tap • Musical Theatre
ARTS INTEGRATION & CURRICULUM CONNECTIONS
Rosie’s programs support Washington State Learning Standards by integrating dance with music, history, and literacy:
- Dance Standards (DA): Students develop coordination, rhythm, musicality, and expressive skills through choreography and improvisation (DA:Cr1–Cr3, DA:Pr4–Pr6).
- Music Standards (MU): Students deepen rhythmic understanding and connect movement to musical phrasing (MU:Pr4–Pr6, MU:Re7–Re9).
- Social Studies (SS): Exploration of African American cultural history, the evolution of jazz, tap, and musical theatre, and their roles in social change (SS:C2, H3).
- English Language Arts (ELA): Opportunities for speaking, listening, and reflective writing through performance preparation and discussion (ELA:SL, W).
Pairs well with:
- Cultural studies and American history units
- Music appreciation and rhythm studies
- PE or movement-based learning
- School-wide arts or multicultural celebrations
WHY TEACHERS CHOOSE ROSIE
- Connects dance to cultural and historical roots for a cross-disciplinary experience
- Builds teamwork, leadership, and performance skills through choreography
- Adapts for all abilities, incorporating body percussion and found-object instruments
- Sparks joy, confidence, and creativity in every student
- Flexible structure fits single workshops or multi-week residencies
ROSIE SHARKEY'S PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS
Playing the Part
Students learn and perform a group number from a well-known musical, exploring choreography, character, and stage presence. They develop timing, expression, and collaboration skills while preparing for a short performance. Minimum: 4 class periods; Grades 3–12.
Rhythms of American Tap Dance
Students explore tap’s roots in African American and Irish traditions, learning rhythm, syncopation, and improvisation. They practice steps (no tap shoes required), create body percussion patterns, and build rhythmic compositions with classroom props and instruments. Minimum: 2 class periods; Grades 6–12.
Jazz & Jazz-Funk: From Social Dance to the Stage
Students dive into jazz and funk-infused jazz—styles shaped by African American social dances, street styles, and Broadway traditions. They learn foundational moves, connect movement to musical phrasing, and create their own short sequences, building musicality, coordination, and cultural awareness. Minimum: 2 class periods; Grades 4–12.
