The History Of Tap Dancing

Article Written By: Terrence Taps

Dance has been around for hundreds of years. The history of tap dancing involves several different cultures from around the world are responsible for its evolution and growth. Although it is not as popular as in its golden years, it is still enjoyed today. Although the history of tap dancing is widely considered an American art form it involves a fusion of many different cultures. This form of dance is a mixture of British, African, Irish, Spanish and Scottish influences.

During the mass influx of different cultures into the New World, an amalgamation of artistic expression evolved. This blending is clearly evident in the development of this very unique form of entertainment.

Throughout the British Isles, there were forms of jigs that involved clogging which showcased fast paced heel and toe motions of the feet on a wood surface. This produced the rhythmic sound exclusive to this art form. African step dance is another iteration of this rhythmic style.

The syncopated drum beats and the fast stepping motion of the feet is yet another interpretation. Spanish flamingo dancing is also a variation of this artistic expression. Dancers wear shoes with nails hammered into the toe and heel making each step audible.

The Vaudeville shows, made this form of dancing widely popular throughout the United States. It was a great escape from the financial turmoil of the Depression era. During the early part of the 20th century, more than 25,000 performers took part in this diverse art form.

Vaudeville made this style of dancing popular in the United States during the 1920s through the early 1940s. This art form flourished during the Depression era, as the nation was seeking a reprieve from the economic devastation happening across the nation. Vaudeville was primarily a comedic form of entertainment consisting of dancers, musicians, comedians, singers, ventriloquists and any other unique, odd, funny act. During the latter part of the 19th century and the early part of the 20th century these acts were performed by more than 25,000 performers, and were the most popular form of entertainment in the United States.

There are different styles of tapping. The first formalized style was known as Buck and Wing which came out of the Minstrels. Other forms were called the Shim Sham Shimmy, the Black Bottom and the Soft shoe. African American dancers were major contributors of the development of this form of entertainment. The most famous African American dancer of that era was Bojangles, Bill Robinson.

When the Hollywood Film Industry grew to major distribution, white dancers where featured primarily over African American dancers. And the tapping form became commercialized and less appreciated. Then in the late 1980s, it hit major popularity once again as a result of the amazing talents of Gregory Hinds and Savion Glover.

About the Author

See tap dancing video clips featuring famous tap dancers. Stop by Terrence Taps's site where you can find out all about tap dance history by seeing it in action!

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