Ai Shimatsu, originally from Tokyo, Japan, is a movement artist, teacher, and a choreographer based in Los Angeles. From a young age, Ai always had a dream to be a professional dancer. She started training with ballet at the age of 3 and studied with the Tokyo Ballet School. In 2007, she moved to New York City to continue her dance training in Jazz, Hip-Hop, Contemporary, and many other genres, at the world famous Broadway Dance Center. Ai has toured with world renowned artists such as: Beyoncé, Madonna, Pharrell Williams, Katy Perry and Brandy. Her most recent world tour was the 2023 ‘Renaissance World Tour’ with Beyoncé. She has also performed on numerous TV and award shows with an array of artists including: Prince, Cardi B, Kanye West, Janelle Monae, Gwen Stefani, Christina Aguilera, and more. 

As an actress, she is very recognizable from her role in the musical feature film ‘Spirited’, where she has a cameo acting role as the Communication Ghost character Kazuko.  Additionally, she can be seen throughout the film as a principal dancer. 
Her style, grace, and remarkable skill in dance has not only gained mass attention in dance but in fashion as well. Ai has starred in major fashion campaigns with many top-tier brands such as: Coach, Rag & Bone, Tommy Hilfiger, Nike, GAP, Watches of Switzerland, Kenzo and many other world-renowned brands.

Ai’s overall experience and extensive career has far exceeded what she thought was possible.  Her journey of moving from Japan to America required her to be extremely dedicated to her craft and she is the epitome of the American Dream.  Being a beacon of inspiration for dancers not only in Japan, but worldwide has always driven her to ‘raise the bar’ of what is achievable.  She believes that anything is possible with hard work, good intentions, and a warm heart.