What is tap dance?
- a percussive American dance form, incorporating rhythm amplified sounds from the feet
- includes English, Irish, and African musical and dance traditions
- imitation, assimilation, transformation have helped the growth of tap dance in North America
Describe the evolution of tap dance.
- challenges (staged by masters), challenge dancers in Minstrel shows in clubs and on Vaudeville stages
- battles in clubs and on Vaudeville stages
- done for class rivalries
- tap was developed by listening, watching, stealing, sharing, reinventing, and mimicking technique
What is jigging?
- unknown why tap came from “jigging”
- jigging was rhythm created by their feet. Very syncopated with bursts of staccato notes
- Irish jig
Name the historical timeline of tap dance.
1920’s: European dances such as the Fox Trot
1930’s: Fox Trot replaced by jitterbug and windy (syncopated box step)
1940’s: Swing era faded
1945-1955: BLACKOUT with little to no dancing
1960’s: Lindy was replaced by the twist. Rock and Roll brought back popular dancing
- from then on, hips are involved
What did the blackout (1945-1955) result from?
new, “undanceable” jazz music (bop), and the disappearance of ballroom and the big bands that played them
When did kids begin dancing to Rock and Roll?
1955
Describe Rock and Roll.
- “race” music, or “rhythm and blues” was rebranded and tailored for the jukebox… very danceable
- saxophone with a major off beat feel (syncopation)
What did the Nicholas Brothers bring to the table for tap dance?
- movement had maturity and athleticism. Everything came as a surprise to the audience
- Stormy Weather: most famous performance
What did Bill “Bojangles” Robinson bring to the table for tap dance?
coined the term “Copasetic” (really good) in the 1940’s
Who were The Copasetics?
a men’s club of tap dancers, jazz musicians. Brought hoofing to the forefront
Who is Jimmy Slyde?
- master of rhythm tap dance
- intricate footwork, accentuating a distinct rhythm
- incorporated a smooth style allowing him to glide across the floor with minimal effort
How does tap before compare to tap today?
- historically, tap steps were not that difficult
- today: less stunts, show stopping moments, but very difficult patterns and steps
Name 3 historically influential people of tap dance.
- Bill “Bojangles” Robinson
- Jimmy Slyde
- Gregory Hines
Name 3 present day influential people of tap dance.
- Andrew Nemr
- Jason Janas
- Michelle Dorrance
