Nicole Macaluso
Tap Instructor | Choreographer | Founder of Soul to Sole LLC

Nicole Macaluso (Bateman) is a dynamic and passionate tap educator, choreographer, and mentor with decades of experience in the dance industry. Born and raised in Miami, Florida, she began her dance training at the age of 3 and quickly fell in love with tap—a genre that remains her true passion. Surrounded by some of the nation’s top talent, Nicole had the privilege of studying under legendary artists such as Mike Minery, Brenda Bufalino, Ayodele Casel, Derick Grant, Aaron Tolson, Maud Arnold, and Diane Walker, among many others.

Nicole’s choreography has earned regional and national recognition, celebrated for its creativity, musicality, and storytelling. She holds a B.S. in Advertising from the University of Florida (2014) and an MBA from Florida International University (2016). Additionally, she completed the International Dance Teaching Standards (IDTS)program, further strengthening her pedagogical expertise.

A founding member and head choreographer of Stomp the Swamp—UF’s tap company—Nicole helped lead the group to perform at major events, including opening for Ludacris and Foster the People at Gator Growl. Her commitment to community impact was evident in the group’s partnership with Dancers Responding to AIDS.

Throughout her career, Nicole has served as Tap Director, regional competition manager, and national talent judge, and is currently on faculty with Dance with Jax, a premier training and mentorship program in Northeast Florida. She continues to travel across the country teaching masterclasses, setting choreography, and sharing her expertise.

Nicole is the proud founder of Soul to Sole LLC, an initiative focused on mentorship, tap education, and building confident dancers. Her teaching philosophy centers on creating magic in the classroom—no matter the dancer’s age or experience level.

Follow her journey on Instagram: @nicole_taps