Al Heyward was born in 1947 in New York City. As a graduate of Baruch College - City University of New York, he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting. Currently, he serves as an accountant and administrator at Manhattan College. Mr. Heyward has always been an avid fan of musical theater and dance, slating Honi Coles, Peg Leg Bates, Jimmy Slyde, the Nicholas Brothers, and Fred Astaire as his favorite tap dancers.

Mr. Heyward received the 2001 Preservation of our Heritage - American Dance Award from Oklahoma City University, which honored him for his contribution to the art of dance. As a member of the American Musical Theatre, he helped to produce two versions of the musical revue, Encore, starring Joe Silver and Joey Faye. Mr. Heyward is co-chairman of the New York Committee to Celebrate National Tap Dance Day, which produces the annual Flo-Bert Awards. In addition to this event, the committee assisted Jean Bach, noted jazz critic and producer, in securing partial financing for the Oscar-nominated documentary Great Day in Harlem.