I am in shock and still don’t know how to put into words what this woman meant to me. Ann Reinking was my hero and one of the biggest inspirations of my life. Her work ethic was such that she set the bar incredibly high and pushed you beyond your limits. She always danced at the edge and expected you to do the same. Ann didn’t sugar coat things and expected you to do your best....to work up to your full potential and even beyond. I was fortunate to first study with her when I was 15 at The Broadway Theatre Project. I was this “farm boy” (a nickname Ann gave me) who was totally out of his element and surrounded by 99 of the most exceptional talents from all over. I couldn’t believe I had been invited to the party! But it was when I returned to BTP at the age of 17 that Ann changed my life forever. After 3 weeks of INTENSE training, she offered me a spot on the first national tour of Fosse. I thought it was a really mean joke at first, but she literally held out her hand and said “ the job is yours... if you want it.” It was like something out of a movie. My brain couldn’t wrap my head around what was happening or what was to come, but she saw something in me and gave me the opportunity of a lifetime. If you’re lucky, you’ll have a teacher who really looks at you and sees what you’re life could be. Ann was that for me. She led me to my chosen family, to my life’s work - not only as a performer but as a teacher- and she continues to inspire me in countless ways: to always strive for more, to push myself, to work harder, and to pursue what scares me. Most important, she always encouraged me to be open, honest and compassionate and to find joy in the work and to love life. I will strive to continue to honor her in everything I do, for I wouldn’t be who I am if it wasn’t for her. I send all my love to Ann’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. To my BTP and Fosse families, you are on my mind and in my heart today. How lucky we were to learn from and know this amazing woman who was a legend in her own time. I am a better person from having known the incredible Ann Reinking and I will never forget her. #annreinking