Jason samuels smith

Definition

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.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jason Samuels Smith gained recognition for his unique tap style that incorporates elements from jazz, hip-hop, and contemporary dance, showcasing a diverse approach to rhythm and movement.
2. He has performed in various prestigious venues, including Broadway shows like 'Bring in 'da Noise, Bring in 'da Funk,' which helped to popularize tap dance among new audiences.
3. As an educator, Smith has been involved in numerous workshops and master classes, emphasizing the importance of creativity and self-expression in tap dance.
4. Smith founded 'The Tap Project,' which aims to promote and preserve the art of tap dance through community engagement and outreach programs.
5. His contributions to tap dance have earned him several accolades, including an Astaire Award and a Tony Award nomination for his work in theater.

Review Questions

• How has Jason Samuels Smith influenced modern tap dance through his performances and teaching methods?
  • Jason Samuels Smith has had a significant impact on modern tap dance by blending traditional techniques with contemporary styles, making the art form more accessible and relevant to today's audiences. His performances showcase a unique fusion of genres that highlight the versatility of tap. Additionally, through his teaching methods in workshops and master classes, he encourages dancers to embrace creativity and improvisation, fostering a new generation of tap dancers who think beyond conventional boundaries.
• In what ways does Jason Samuels Smith's work reflect the ongoing revival of interest in tap dance as a legitimate art form?
  • Jason Samuels Smith's work reflects the ongoing revival of interest in tap dance by pushing the boundaries of what tap can be. He incorporates various styles such as hip-hop and jazz into his choreography, attracting a wider audience and redefining perceptions of tap. Furthermore, his involvement in community outreach through programs like 'The Tap Project' emphasizes the cultural significance of tap dance, promoting it as an essential aspect of American artistic heritage that deserves recognition and preservation.
• Evaluate the significance of Jason Samuels Smith's contributions to both the performance and educational aspects of tap dance in shaping its future.
  • The significance of Jason Samuels Smith's contributions lies in his dual role as a performer and educator in the realm of tap dance. By captivating audiences with his innovative performances, he elevates the status of tap as an expressive art form while simultaneously inspiring aspiring dancers through his teaching. His emphasis on creativity, rhythm, and cross-genre influences not only preserves the tradition but also encourages evolution within the art form. This balance between honoring history and embracing innovation positions Smith as a pivotal figure in shaping the future landscape of tap dance.

Related terms

Tap Dance: A style of dance characterized by the rhythmic sound of metal taps on the soles of shoes, often performed to jazz or popular music.

Choreography: The art of designing sequences of movements in which motion, form, or both are specified; essential in creating tap dance performances.

Rhythm Tap: A style of tap dancing that emphasizes musicality and improvisation, focusing on the rhythm created by footwork rather than elaborate choreography.