Meet Atticus Ray
He is known for his world-class percussive dancer, creative producer, and inspiring mentor. For over 30 years, he has energized audiences and helped people “Tap Their Potential” through dance, music, and stage shows. If you love rhythm, want to dance, or are looking for life-changing programs for youth, you’re in the right place.
Big Achievements
Star of Rhythm with Views
A national TV show is now streaming on Amazon Prime, Apple TV+, and Google Play, starring Atticus Ray and it is easily accessible to audiences everywhere. Viewers can watch anytime and on their favorite devices, enjoying powerful stories brought directly to their screens.
Creator of American Thunder
America’s most powerful stage and music show celebrates the true spirit of the nation while honoring the strength of community. Blending unforgettable performances with a tribute to unity, it brings people together through music, inspiration, and pride.
Founder of Cottonwood Cloggers
With 9 dance schools and over 1,000 students, we are proudly spreading the art of dance across Michigan and beyond. Our community continues to grow, inspiring passion, creativity, and excellence in every step.
Inspired over 100,000 kids
We bring learning and creativity to life through nationwide workshops, school shows, and community programs.
Our sessions inspire students, encourage curiosity, and build confidence in every participant.By blending education with engaging performance, we create memorable and impactful experiences.
Performed and produced with legends
We’ve had the privilege of working with Olympic athletes, world-renowned hip-hop stars, and top production teams.
Our collaborations span across sports, music, and entertainment, bringing unique energy to every project.
By joining forces with industry leaders, we create performances that inspire and captivate audiences.
Programs & How Atticus Helps
Dance & Youth Programs
Tap Your Potential Challenge
Fun, active tap dance workouts for schools and families. It’s simple sign up, get instructions, and start moving! Each challenge keeps kids active, builds confidence, and helps fight childhood obesity.
Million Taps for a Million Kids
A campaign to help one million kids get moving with dance, bringing energy to communities everywhere.
Rhythm With Views Band
A traveling workshop and concert tour. Atticus visits cities across the U.S., offering live classes, music, and giant dance parties open to all ages.
After-School Programs & Workshops
Safe, creative after-school dance clubs and classes. Kids learn rhythm, teamwork, discipline, and creativity in a supportive space. Programs are led by Atticus Ray and his team of expert instructors.
Upcoming: American Thunder
At the Ryman Auditorium
American Thunder is much more than a show, it’s a movement. It’s being rebranded as a national entertainment event and ground-breaking dance reality competition. The big stage is the legendary Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, also known as the “Mother Church of Country Music.” Here, music legends like Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley once performed. For dancers, this is a once-in-a-lifetime place to shine.
Atticus Ray is inviting students, performers, and dreamers from across America to compete and take part:
How to Join the American Thunder Competition
Submit your bio, age, and a performance video on the American Thunder website.
Share your video and portal link to get your community to vote.
Our team will select the top 1,000 dancers and performers from all videos received.
Winners will perform at the Ryman Auditorium, appear in the American Thunder live show, and can join the national tour.
Family Involvement
All finalists get a chance at cash prizes, media features, and a red carpet debut. Even if you don’t win, you may be chosen to perform when the show comes to your town, or join the creative network for future events and collaborations.
What All Participants Get
- Exposure on national streaming platforms (like Amazon, Apple TV, etc.)
- Opportunities to perform and tour across the U.S.
- Media promotion through official channels and social media
- Part of a growing network of dancers, artists, and producers
- Ongoing chances to join future events, sponsorships, and artist collaborations
Why It Matters
Global exposure for young talent: Atticus Ray opens doors to big stages and lasting careers.
A chance to belong: Every artist and dancer joins a true community, not just a contest.
Legacy: Whether you win or not, you become part of the American Thunder family.
Testimonials
Dancing with Atticus Ray made me feel happy inside and out.
My son gained confidence and new friends at the after-school club.
Our students learned teamwork and discipline and had fun too.
Media & Gallery
About
Atticus Ray
Production
Atticus Sumner is an entertainer, producer, and creative entrepreneur with over thirty years of experience in dance, music, and live performance. He founded the Cottonwood Cloggers in Michigan, growing it into a multi studio organization serving nearly one thousand students and later licensing his teaching systems nationally.
He has performed across the United States, collaborated with well known artists and industry leaders, and now creates original music inspired by his life and career. Atticus holds a degree in Film and Telecommunications and produces projects ranging from stage shows and media content to commercial productions.
Alongside entertainment, he invests in real estate development and remains deeply committed to giving back, having impacted more than one hundred thousand children through charitable initiatives. Family is his foundation, driving his focus on purpose, integrity, and excellence.
Ready to join the movement?
- Participate in the next American Thunder at the Ryman Auditorium
- Sign up for after-school programs or dance challenges
- Contact Atticus Ray’s team for booking or speaking opportunities