From Flapper to Funk: The Evolution of Tap Dance Styles

Tap dance, a rhythmic and dynamic form of dance that has captivated audiences for over a century, has undergone a remarkable evolution. From its origins in the early 20th century to its modern-day iterations, tap dance has continually reinvented itself, reflecting the cultural and social shifts of each era. Let's take a journey through time to explore the fascinating evolution of tap dance styles.

The Roaring Twenties: The Birth of the Flapper Tap

The 1920s, often referred to as the Roaring Twenties, was a period of exuberance and liberation, particularly for women. This era saw the rise of the flapper, a new type of woman who rejected traditional norms and embraced modernity. Tap dance, with its lively and expressive nature, became the perfect medium for flappers to showcase their freedom and individuality.

Flapper tap dance was characterized by its light, airy steps and intricate footwork. Dancers often wore short, fringed dresses that allowed for maximum movement, and their performances were filled with sass and flair. The music of the time, with its jazz rhythms and syncopated beats, provided the perfect backdrop for these energetic routines.

The Swing Era: The Evolution of Tap into a Social Dance

As the 1930s and 1940s rolled in, tap dance continued to evolve, becoming more integrated into social dance culture. The Swing Era, with its infectious energy and big band music, saw tap dance move from the stage to the dance floor. Dancers like Bill "Bojangles" Robinson and the Nicholas Brothers brought tap to new heights, incorporating acrobatic elements and intricate partner work into their routines.

During this period, tap dance became a staple in Hollywood musicals, with iconic performances in films like "Stormy Weather" and "Swing Time." The dance style was now not only a form of entertainment but also a way for people to connect and express themselves socially.

The Post-War Era: The Influence of Broadway and Television

The post-war era saw tap dance gain even more prominence, thanks to its integration into Broadway shows and television. Shows like "42nd Street" and "Singin' in the Rain" featured elaborate tap routines that became iconic. Television also played a significant role, with shows like "The Ed Sullivan Show" bringing tap dance into living rooms across America.

This period also saw the rise of "soft-shoe" tap, a more subdued and elegant style that contrasted with the high-energy routines of the past. Dancers like Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly popularized this style, blending tap with ballet and other dance forms to create a more polished and sophisticated performance.

The Funk Era: The Modernization of Tap Dance

In the 1970s and 1980s, tap dance underwent another transformation, this time influenced by the funk and hip-hop movements. Dancers like Gregory Hines and Savion Glover brought a new level of innovation to the art form, incorporating contemporary music and urban dance styles into their routines.

This era saw the rise of "hoofing," a style characterized by its fast, percussive footwork and improvisational nature. Dancers would often engage in "battles," where they would compete against each other in a display of skill and creativity. This competitive spirit helped to revitalize interest in tap dance and bring it to a new generation of performers.

The Present Day: Tap Dance as a Global Phenomenon

Today, tap dance continues to evolve, with dancers around the world pushing the boundaries of the art form. From Broadway shows like "Bring in 'da Noise, Bring in 'da Funk" to contemporary dance companies like STOMP, tap dance has become a global phenomenon, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers.

The internet has also played a significant role in the evolution of tap dance, with platforms like YouTube and TikTok allowing dancers to share their work with a global audience. This has led to a resurgence of interest in tap dance, with new styles and techniques constantly emerging.

Conclusion

From its origins as a form of entertainment for flappers in the 1920s to its modern-day iterations, tap dance has continually evolved, reflecting the cultural and social shifts of each era. Whether it's the light, airy steps of the flapper era, the high-energy routines of the Swing Era, or the innovative styles of today, tap dance remains a vibrant and dynamic art form that continues to captivate audiences around the world.