Tap dance

Definition

Tap dance is a rhythmic form of dance characterized by the use of metal-tipped shoes that create distinct sounds as the dancer strikes the floor. This dance style combines elements of jazz, African American dance traditions, and theatrical performance, emphasizing musicality and expressiveness in movement. Tap dance serves as a powerful tool for character creation, enabling performers to convey emotions and personality through their physical movements and footwork.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tap dance emerged in the early 19th century, influenced by African rhythms and European folk dances.
2. The use of metal taps on shoes allows dancers to create intricate sounds and patterns, making rhythm a key element of the performance.
3. Notable figures in tap history include Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson and Savion Glover, who helped elevate the art form's popularity.
4. Tap dance can be performed solo or as part of a group, often incorporating improvisation to showcase individual style.
5. In theatrical productions, tap dance is frequently used to enhance storytelling and character development, allowing performers to express emotions non-verbally.

Review Questions

• How does tap dance utilize physicality and movement to create character and emotion?
  • Tap dance uses specific footwork and body movements to convey character traits and emotions, integrating rhythm into the storytelling. The distinctive sounds made by tapping shoes allow dancers to express feelings like joy or frustration without words. By varying their tempo and dynamics, performers can further enhance their characters' emotional states, showcasing how physicality in tap is vital for character creation.
• Discuss the evolution of tap dance styles during the Golden Age of Musical Theater and their impact on performance.
  • During the Golden Age of Musical Theater, tap dance evolved significantly, blending traditional styles with new forms like jazz. This period saw tap integrated into many popular shows, enhancing entertainment value through vibrant choreography. The combination of music and dance created dynamic performances that captivated audiences, illustrating how tap became a staple in theater productions during this era.
• Evaluate the role of tap dance in contemporary theater productions compared to its historical roots in earlier performance styles.
  • Contemporary theater has expanded tap dance's role beyond its historical roots, incorporating diverse influences while maintaining its rhythmic essence. Today’s productions may blend tap with hip-hop or other dance styles, reflecting cultural evolution. This shift allows tap to continue expressing complex narratives while still honoring its rich history, showing its adaptability as both an art form and a means of character exploration.

Related terms

Rhythm: The pattern of sounds and silences in music that guides the timing and pace of tap dance.

Choreography: The art of designing sequences of movements in tap dance, blending technique with storytelling to enhance performance.

Musicality:

The ability to interpret and express music through movement, crucial in tap dance for enhancing the connection between sound and steps.