Leanora Tapper
Leanora Tapper is an actor born and raised in Harlem, New York
Leanora’s artistic journey began with dance at Harlem School of the Arts and Alvin Ailey. In high school, she helped shape Success Academy’s budding theater program and made her Off-Broadway debut with Keen Company’s Keen Teens, solidifying her love for the stage. At Purchase, she has taken on a wide range of roles that have contributed to her growth as an actress. Some of these include Mayme in Intimate Apparel (dir. Chantal Jean-Pierre, 2024), Wendla in Spring Awakening (dir. Jack Tamburri, 2024), Pip in Things I Know to Be True (dir. Eddie Dehais, 2024), and Ariel in The Tempest (dir. Elmore James, 2025).
Leanora also made her directorial debut at the inaugural Blac Theater Festival at Purchase College, an event she co-founded alongside her fellow BFA students. Leanora strives to continuously expand her craft, push creative boundaries, and uplift the global community through her work.
Beyond acting, Leanora is a dedicated Pinterest creator, film enthusiast, and chef. She’s currently teaming up with her dad to perfect her upcoming stand-up set.
She extends her deepest gratitude to her family, friends, teachers, Company 49, and all those who have inspired and supported her along the way.
“Just keep dancing with the unknown, it’s scary but way more fun” ~ Leanora
