Dan Karaty is one of the hottest entertainers working today. In addition to choreographing films like Music and Lyrics and Did You Hear About The Morgans with Hugh Grant and Sarah Jessica Parker, Dan stars on FOX’s So You Think You Can Dance, which is a ratings hit around the world. Dan’s incredible Hip-Hop choreography and thought-provoking critiques have made him one of the show’s favorite Judges.
Dan was born just outside New York City to Broadway veterans Tom and Jane Karaty so it’s no surprise dance is a huge part of his life. His work is infused with classic Broadway inspirations like Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire and trailblazers in the growing Hip-Hop and pop culture like Michael Jackson.
During college at NYU, Dan spent his “free” time teaching at the popular Tremaine Dance Conventions where he met friend and collaborator Wade Robson. During his junior year, Dan made his Broadway debut in the smash hit Footloose and soon thereafter began dancing with Britney Spears on the MTV Video Music Awards and The Billboard Awards.
After graduating from NYU with a B.A. in Journalism, Dan decided it was time to make the move to Hollywood where he and Robson continued to collaborate. Their rise was fast and furious and included high-profile projects like Britney Spears’ first Pepsi commercial and the *NSYNC World Tour.
Dan then branched out on his own, choreographing Jessica Simpson’s Irresistible and Little Bit music videos, and serving as Artistic Director for her 2001 World Tour. He also worked with Kylie Minogue on many of her television appearances, as well as a long list of cutting edge artists like Justin Timberlake and Usher.
Although he quickly became known for his work in the pop music genre, Dan broadened his reach by choreographing ground-breaking commercials for iPod, Best Buy, Mattel, Miller and many more. His experience, combined with his gift for comedy, allowed him to move into the film industry where he choreographed on Music and Lyrics and Malibu’s Most Wanted with Jamie Kennedy.
Beyond his role as a key Judge and Choreographer on So You Think You Can Dance, Dan has his sights set on producing and directing films, television and theater. He is currently in development on several film and television projects and even a Broadway production of his own!
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