Tap dance is a unique, rhythmic art form that has captivated audiences for over a century. Combining the influences of African tribal dance, Irish jigs, and American innovation, tap dancing has evolved into a beloved cultural expression. From its origins on plantations to its rise on Broadway, tap dance has left an indelible mark on entertainment. Let’s explore the fascinating history of tap dance, the invention of tap shoes, and how this vibrant dance style has stood the test of time.
Early Beginnings of Tap Dance in the United States
Tap dance originated in the United States during the 19th century, blending the dance traditions of African slaves and Irish immigrants. Enslaved Africans brought their step dances and rhythmic body percussion, using their feet and hands to create beats when drums were forbidden. This form of expression became a lifeline to their cultural roots. Irish immigrants, known for their jigs and clog dances, brought percussive footwork that blended with African rhythms, leading to the birth of tap.
On Southern plantations, African and Irish slaves observed and learned each other’s dances, creating a shared rhythm and a new American style. As tap evolved, dance competitions and minstrel shows became popular entertainment venues. Dancers performed in wooden shoes or with pennies attached to their soles to create the distinct tapping sounds we associate with tap today.
The Influence of Early Tap Dance Legends
In the post-Civil War era, tap dance found its way into minstrel shows and dance competitions, drawing diverse audiences. One of the earliest tap icons was William Henry Lane, better known as “Master Juba.” As one of the few Black performers in the predominantly white minstrel circuit, Master Juba’s lightning-fast, syncopated footwork left a lasting impact on the art form. His style blended African and European techniques, establishing him as one of the first great tap dancers.
At the time, tap dance was defined more by rhythm and footwork than by the distinctive sound of metal taps. Dancers wore soft-soled shoes or wooden clogs, creating a subtle, rhythmic effect rather than the loud tapping sounds we know today. Through influential figures like Master Juba, tap continued to evolve, eventually leading to new styles and variations.
The Rise of Tap Shoes and the Modern Tap Sound
The 1920s marked a significant turning point in tap dance history with the invention of the tap shoe. Dancers began nailing small metal pieces onto the heels and toes of their shoes, allowing for a louder and more defined tapping sound. This innovation transformed tap dance into a percussive art form, enabling dancers to create complex rhythms and make a powerful auditory impact.
During this time, tap dancing became a staple in vaudeville shows, where dancers performed elaborate group routines to entertain large audiences. These performances brought tap dance into the mainstream, introducing audiences to standardized steps and choreographed numbers. Tap dancing families and groups toured the country, showcasing their syncopated footwork and establishing tap as a cultural phenomenon.
Tap Battles and the Influence of Jazz Music
With the addition of metal taps, tap dancing gained new life, and improvisation became a celebrated aspect of the style. Dancers would engage in “tap battles,” challenging each other to outdo their moves in a friendly yet competitive spirit. These battles, marked by fast footwork and improvisation, became a hallmark of tap dance, thrilling audiences and solidifying the dance’s unique identity.
The rhythmic nature of tap dance made it a perfect match for jazz music, which was also rising in popularity during this time. Tap dancers began collaborating with jazz musicians, creating performances that highlighted both musical improvisation and dance artistry. Jazz became the most popular accompaniment for tap, and together, the two art forms shaped each other, producing some of the most iconic performances in American entertainment.
Tap Dance on Broadway and in Film
In the early 20th century, tap dance made its way to the grand stages of Broadway, with stars like Fred Astaire and Bill “Bojangles” Robinson leading the way. Astaire combined ballroom elegance with tap, bringing sophistication to the style, while Robinson’s graceful “Stair Dance” captivated audiences and introduced the world to the lighter, more fluid side of tap.
As movies gained popularity, tap dance sequences became a standard feature in musical films. Stars like Gene Kelly and Shirley Temple brought tap dance into American homes, expanding its reach and further embedding it in American culture. Kelly’s ballet-inspired tap moves and Temple’s charming performances continued to evolve tap’s style, making it an essential part of entertainment.
In the 1930s to 1950s, nearly every film and theatrical production included a tap number, showcasing the art form to a wide audience. Tap dance soon became synonymous with musical theater, pushing dancers to innovate with faster rhythms, props, and eye-catching costumes, making it a main attraction in live shows and on screen.
The Decline of Tap Dance and Its Revival
The 1950s and 60s brought challenges for tap dancers as jazz was replaced by rock and pop music, less suited to the rhythms of tap. The rise of ballet and contemporary dance in musical theater further displaced tap from the spotlight, leading to a period of decline. Fewer venues featured tap performances, and many dancers struggled to find opportunities to perform.
However, in the 1970s and 80s, tap dance experienced a resurgence. Tap troupes emerged, keeping the art form alive, and inspiring young dancers to explore its history. Broadway shows like 42nd Street and The Tap Dance Kid reintroduced audiences to tap’s appeal, sparking renewed interest. Gregory Hines played a significant role in reviving tap, bringing it back to the movies and stage with his electrifying performances and innovative techniques.
Savion Glover, a student of Hines, became one of the biggest proponents of modern tap, blending contemporary music and fast footwork into his unique style. Glover’s performances breathed new life into tap, attracting younger audiences and revitalizing the art form for a new generation.
Modern Tap Dance: Rhythm and Theatrical Styles
Today, tap dance has evolved into two main styles: rhythm and theatrical tap. Theatrical tap, inspired by classic tap of the 1930s and 40s, incorporates full-body movement and storytelling, embodying the elegance and charm of its Broadway roots. Rhythm tap, on the other hand, focuses on the music created by the feet, emphasizing beats, syncopation, and intricate patterns, much like a drummer in a jazz band.
Modern tap dancers often experiment with various music genres, including hip-hop and pop, to create dynamic routines that appeal to today’s audiences. This fusion of styles showcases tap’s versatility and allows each dancer to bring their personality and creativity to the dance floor.
The Enduring Legacy of Tap Dance
Tap dance has left an indelible mark on the world of performance art, with its influence seen in jazz dance, contemporary music, and popular culture. While it has gone through periods of decline, its resilience and adaptability have kept it relevant and beloved. The tradition of tap battles, the elegance of classic routines, and the creativity of modern tap all contribute to the dance’s enduring appeal.
From the clogs and soft-soled shoes of the 19th century to the vibrant performances on Broadway and film, tap dance has transcended time, culture, and genre. Today, dance studios across the country continue to teach tap, and popular movies and performances showcase its appeal to new generations.
Conclusion: Tap Dance as a Cultural Icon
Tap dance remains a cherished art form that allows dancers to blend history with personal expression. With every click of a tap shoe, dancers pay homage to the diverse cultural roots and legendary performers who shaped the style. Whether through rhythm or theatricality, tap dance continues to evolve, captivating audiences with its unique blend of music, movement, and improvisation. By embracing tap’s legacy, today’s dancers ensure that this incredible art form remains a cultural icon for years to come.
