8.4 Revival and Innovation in Modern Tap Dance
3 min read•july 18, 2024
dance experienced a revival in the late 20th century, fueled by Broadway shows, movies, and festivals. This resurgence sparked renewed appreciation for tap's history and cultural significance, rooted in African American and Irish American traditions.
Innovators like , , and pushed tap's boundaries, blending traditional styles with and contemporary influences. Their work, along with cross-genre collaborations and festivals, has kept tap vibrant and evolving in the 21st century.
Revival of Tap Dance in the Late 20th and Early 21st Centuries
Tap dance resurgence
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- Factors contributing to the revival of tap dance
- Broadway shows featuring tap dance reignited public interest in the art form ("" in 1989, "" in 1996)
- Increased visibility of tap dance in movies exposed wider audiences to the dance style ("TAP" in 1989, "" in 2001)
- Growing number of and workshops provided opportunities for dancers to learn, collaborate, and showcase their skills (, )
- Renewed appreciation for the art form's history and cultural significance
- Efforts to preserve and celebrate the legacy of early tap dance pioneers through documentaries, books, and tributes
- Increased recognition of tap dance as a uniquely American art form with roots in African American and Irish American traditions
Innovators in contemporary tap
- Savion Glover
- Known for his innovative and powerful style that blends traditional tap with hip-hop and contemporary influences
- Created and starred in the groundbreaking Broadway show "Bring in 'da Noise, Bring in 'da Funk" in 1996
- Michelle Dorrance
- Founder of Dorrance Dance company, known for pushing the boundaries of tap dance through cross-genre collaborations and innovative choreography
- Recipient of the prestigious MacArthur "Genius" Grant in 2015 for her contributions to the art form
- Jason Samuels Smith
- Recognized for his unique blend of tap, hip-hop, and jazz influences that have inspired a new generation of dancers
- Founder of (Anybody Can Get It) tap dance crew and festival, which promotes inclusivity and diversity in tap dance
Innovation in Modern Tap Dance
Evolution of modern tap styles
- Integration of various musical genres
- Hip-hop and rap influences have been incorporated into modern tap, as seen in the work of Savion Glover and Jason Samuels Smith
- Jazz and contemporary music collaborations have expanded the musical landscape of tap dance, exemplified by Michelle Dorrance's work with composer Gregory Richardson
- Expansion of tap dance techniques and styles
- Incorporation of sliding, gliding, and more grounded movements has added new dimensions to traditional tap vocabulary
- Experimentation with unconventional tap surfaces and settings, such as sand, water, and staircases, has pushed the boundaries of where and how tap dance can be performed
- Cross-genre collaborations and fusion
- Combining tap dance with other dance forms, like modern dance, ballet, and street dance, has created innovative and exciting new works
- Collaborations with musicians, visual artists, and technology have led to immersive, multimedia performances that showcase the versatility of tap dance
Preservation through tap events
- Tap dance festivals and workshops
- Provide opportunities for dancers to learn from masters and peers, fostering the exchange of ideas and techniques (New York City Tap Festival, Chicago Human Rhythm Project, )
- Showcase the diversity and evolution of tap dance by featuring both traditional and contemporary styles
- Competitions and showcases
- Platforms for emerging and established tap dancers to gain recognition and exposure ("", "So You Think You Can Dance")
- Encourage innovation and creativity within the art form by rewarding unique and groundbreaking performances
- Preservation and education
- Festivals, workshops, and competitions help preserve the history and legacy of tap dance by passing down knowledge and skills to younger generations
- Contribute to the ongoing evolution and vitality of the art form by nurturing new talent and ideas
Key Terms to Review (22)
A.c.g.i.: A.C.G.I. stands for 'American Choreographers' Guild Initiative,' which is a program aimed at fostering the growth and innovation of American tap dance through collaboration and experimentation among artists. This initiative encourages the integration of new ideas, styles, and techniques while honoring traditional tap dance forms, thus revitalizing the genre and keeping it relevant in contemporary performance art.
Black and blue: Black and blue refers to a specific style of tap dance characterized by the use of contrasting rhythms, footwork, and musicality that often evokes a deep emotional response. This term connects to a revival of traditional tap while incorporating modern innovations, blending the historical essence of tap with contemporary elements, highlighting both its roots and evolution in performance.
Bojangles: Bojangles refers to the legendary tap dancer Bill Robinson, famously known as 'Bojangles.' He was a pioneering figure in American dance who brought tap to new heights during the early 20th century. His innovative style combined traditional African American dance with theatrical elements, making him a cultural icon and influencing generations of dancers that followed.
Bring in 'da noise, bring in 'da funk: 'Bring in 'da noise, bring in 'da funk' is a phrase that encapsulates the energetic and vibrant nature of tap dance as an art form, highlighting its roots in African American culture and its evolution through various performance mediums. This expression emphasizes the unique sounds created by the rhythm of the dancers' feet while also celebrating the cultural and stylistic influences that have shaped tap dance over the years. It connects to the ways tap dance has been portrayed and innovated in film and stage productions, showcasing its ability to both entertain and communicate deep cultural narratives.
Chicago Human Rhythm Project: The Chicago Human Rhythm Project is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of tap dance as a vital art form within American culture. It focuses on connecting the rich history of tap with modern artistic expressions, supporting artists and educational programs that foster rhythm and creativity. The project serves as a hub for tap dancers, musicians, and educators, helping to revitalize and innovate the tap dance genre.
Community classes: Community classes refer to dance education programs offered in local settings, designed to make dance accessible to people of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. These classes foster a sense of belonging and encourage participation, allowing individuals to express themselves through movement while also promoting cultural understanding and appreciation. In the context of modern tap dance, community classes play a crucial role in reviving traditional forms and innovating new styles by connecting dancers and choreographers with their local communities.
Contemporary tap: Contemporary tap is a modern evolution of traditional tap dance that incorporates various styles and techniques, blending rhythmic footwork with elements from jazz, hip-hop, and other dance forms. This style is characterized by its innovative choreography, musicality, and the use of improvisation, which allows for greater expression and creativity compared to its classical roots.
Heel digs: Heel digs are a tap dance step where the dancer strikes the floor with the heel of one foot while keeping the toe lifted, creating a distinct sound and rhythm. This step is often used to add punctuation and flair to dance routines, contributing to the dynamic nature of tap as a performance art. Heel digs can be performed in various sequences and are a fundamental element in both classic and contemporary tap styles.
Hip-hop: Hip-hop is a vibrant cultural movement that emerged in the 1970s in the South Bronx, characterized by its unique combination of music, dance, art, and fashion. It reflects the experiences and expressions of marginalized communities, often addressing social issues through its various elements, including breakdancing, rapping, DJing, and graffiti. This cultural phenomenon not only revolutionized music but also played a significant role in shaping contemporary dance forms and broader cultural dialogues.
Improvisation: Improvisation is the spontaneous creation of movement without premeditated choreography, allowing dancers to express themselves freely and creatively in the moment. This practice is deeply rooted in various dance forms and cultural expressions, enabling performers to connect with their emotions and surroundings while often responding to music or other stimuli.
Jason samuels smith: Jason Samuels Smith is a prominent tap dancer, choreographer, and director known for his innovative contributions to the art of tap dance. His work has significantly influenced the revival of modern tap, blending traditional techniques with contemporary styles and showcasing the versatility of the dance form. Through performances and educational initiatives, he has helped to elevate tap dance within the broader landscape of American dance.
L.a. tap fest: L.A. Tap Fest is an annual event held in Los Angeles that celebrates tap dance through workshops, performances, and competitions. This festival not only showcases the revival of tap dance but also highlights innovations in technique and choreography, making it a significant platform for both established and emerging tap dancers to connect and learn.
Master classes: Master classes are specialized workshops led by expert instructors, often featuring advanced techniques and styles within a specific discipline. They provide opportunities for students to learn directly from accomplished professionals, enhancing their skills and understanding of the art form. In the context of dance, master classes often focus on specific techniques, choreography, or historical contexts, fostering innovation and revitalization within the dance community.
Michelle Dorrance: Michelle Dorrance is an influential American tap dancer, choreographer, and artistic director known for her innovative approach to tap dance that combines traditional elements with contemporary techniques. She has significantly contributed to the revival of tap dance, making it relevant in the modern dance landscape while emphasizing the importance of rhythm and sound in her choreography.
New York City Tap Festival: The New York City Tap Festival is an annual event dedicated to celebrating and promoting tap dance as a vibrant art form. This festival brings together tap dancers from all over the world to participate in workshops, performances, and competitions, showcasing the evolution and innovation in modern tap dance while honoring its rich history and cultural significance.
Savion Glover: Savion Glover is a renowned American tap dancer, choreographer, and actor known for his innovative approach to tap dance that emphasizes rhythm and improvisation. He gained fame for his unique style, which blends traditional tap with hip-hop influences, making significant contributions to the art form both on stage and in film. Glover is celebrated for his ability to transform tap into a dynamic expression of storytelling and musicality.
Shuffles: Shuffles are a fundamental tap dance step characterized by a quick sequence of sounds produced by alternating the ball of the foot and the heel on the floor. This step involves shifting weight from one foot to the other, creating a syncopated rhythm that can add both complexity and flair to a performance. In modern tap dance, shuffles have been revived and innovated upon, showcasing their versatility and importance in rhythmic expression.
Syncopation: Syncopation is a rhythmic concept that emphasizes off-beats or weak beats in music, creating a sense of surprise and excitement. This technique disrupts the expected flow of rhythm, which adds complexity and enhances the expressiveness of dance movements. In various dance styles, syncopation plays a vital role in shaping the musicality and dynamics of performance, allowing dancers to interact more creatively with the music they interpret.
Tap: Tap is a form of dance characterized by the rhythmical tapping of the dancer's shoes on the floor, creating percussive sounds that contribute to the music. This dance style blends elements from African American traditions, European folk dance, and theatrical performance, leading to its evolution as a unique American art form. Tap has roots in African drumming and British clog dancing, and it has played a significant role in shaping American dance history and continuing to innovate within the modern dance landscape.
Tap City: Tap City is a prominent tap dance festival held annually in New York City, focusing on celebrating and preserving the art of tap dance through performances, classes, and community engagement. It brings together dancers, educators, and enthusiasts to foster innovation and revival in tap, showcasing its rich history while encouraging new creative expressions within the genre.
Tap dance festivals: Tap dance festivals are organized events that celebrate and promote the art of tap dancing, featuring performances, workshops, and competitions for dancers of all skill levels. These festivals play a significant role in the revival and innovation of modern tap dance, fostering a sense of community among dancers, educators, and audiences while encouraging the exploration of new techniques and styles.
Tap fusion: Tap fusion is a contemporary dance style that blends traditional tap dance with elements from other genres such as jazz, hip-hop, and modern dance. This innovative approach revitalizes tap by incorporating diverse rhythms, movements, and performance techniques, reflecting the evolving nature of dance in today's cultural landscape.