Michael Novak

MICHAEL NOVAK, a critically acclaimed Paul Taylor dancer from 2010 to 2019, became the second Artistic Director in the history of the Paul Taylor Dance Foundation in September 2018, having been chosen by Mr. Taylor to succeed him upon his death. Under Novak’s direction, the Paul Taylor Dance Company continues to be one of the world’s premier dance companies, with robust domestic and international touring; an ever-expanding repertory that includes the Taylor canon, historical masterpieces, and works he commissions; an annual engagement at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts; and several education programs to inspire the next generation of dancers and dance advocates. Raised in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, Novak is an alumnus of Columbia University’s School of General Studies, where he received his BA in Dance magna cum laude and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. He was the Keynote Speaker for the Class of 2020.

Photo by Bill Wadman