In 2019, the Dance Hall of Fame was conceived by legendary, award-winning director Louis J. Horvitz; renowned choreographer, producer, and director Anita Mann; and Melinda and Kurt Soderling—acclaimed documentary filmmakers and dedicated archival stewards whose long-term work preserving dance history and performance legacy was central to the organization’s original vision. United by a shared commitment to honoring dancers, choreographers, dance-related film directors, dance teams, and other trailblazers who have left an indelible mark on the industry, these visionary leaders laid the foundation for an institution devoted to preservation, recognition, and education.

Anita Mann assembled a founding board of 15 distinguished individuals, each recognized for their significant contributions to the art of dance. Following the loss of Board Member Glorya Kaufman, the board—now comprised of 14 members—undertook the meaningful and formidable task of selecting the inaugural class of honorees. Faced with an extraordinary depth of artists whose influence on dance and the entertainment industry is immeasurable, the board approached the selection process with profound reverence and care.

On December 3, 2025, the Dance Hall of Fame proudly celebrated its inaugural class: 10 inductees and one distinguished Shirley MacLaine Lifetime Achievement recipient— 11 extraordinary artists whose work has elevated dance, transformed entertainment, and inspired generations. The ceremony, held at The Glorya Kaufman Performing Arts Center in tribute to Glorya’s enduring legacy and her immeasurable impact on the arts, was Executive Produced by Anita Mann, Louis J. Horvitz, and Jeff Thacker, five-time Emmy-nominated executive producer of So You Think You Can Dance.