Michael Novak became the second Artistic Director in the history of the Paul Taylor Dance Foundation in September 2018, after being personally selected by founder Paul Taylor to be the official successor of the title upon his passing. A critically-acclaimed dancer of the company from 2010 to 2019, Mr. Novak earned a nomination for the Clive Barnes Foundation Dance Award for his debut season and is a proud alumni of Columbia University’s School of General Studies, where he received his BA in Dance, graduating Phi Beta Kappa and magna cum laude with Departmental Honors.

Under Novak’s direction, the company continues its place as one of the world’s premiere modern dance companies. “I am determined to further Paul Taylor’s vision,” Mr. Novak said upon assuming the role of Artistic Director, “and to bring his gems to every part of the globe… to honor past dance makers and encourage future artists… and to make sure modern dance remains a transformative force for good in our lives long into the future.”