Tap dance, a rhythmic marvel that has captivated audiences for over a century, has undergone a fascinating transformation from its origins on Broadway stages to its vibrant presence in urban street culture. This blog delves into the evolution of tap dance styles, tracing its journey from the glitzy theaters of New York to the dynamic streets of cities worldwide.
The Broadway Era: The Golden Age of Tap
Tap dance first gained prominence in the early 20th century, with its roots deeply embedded in African American vernacular dances. The 1920s and 1930s marked the golden age of tap on Broadway, where legends like Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, Fred Astaire, and Gene Kelly revolutionized the art form. These performers brought tap to the forefront of American entertainment, blending intricate footwork with storytelling and musicality.
Broadway tap was characterized by its precision, elegance, and showmanship. Dancers wore specially designed tap shoes with metal plates on the heels and toes, allowing for a wide range of sounds and rhythms. The style was often choreographed to fit the narrative of the musical, with dancers using their feet as percussion instruments to enhance the musical score.
The Decline and Revival: Tap in the Mid-20th Century
As the mid-20th century approached, tap dance began to lose its mainstream appeal. The rise of rock 'n' roll and other dance forms like jazz and ballet overshadowed tap, leading to a decline in its popularity. However, the art form found new life in the underground dance scene, where it was preserved and reinvented by dedicated enthusiasts.
In the 1970s and 1980s, tap experienced a resurgence thanks to the efforts of dancers like Gregory Hines and Savion Glover. These artists brought a fresh perspective to tap, infusing it with contemporary elements and pushing the boundaries of traditional styles. The revival of tap dance during this period reintroduced the art form to a new generation of dancers and audiences.
Street Tap: The Modern Evolution
The 21st century has seen tap dance evolve into a more diverse and inclusive art form, with a significant influence from urban street culture. Street tap, also known as hip-hop tap or rhythm tap, has emerged as a fusion of traditional tap techniques with elements of hip-hop, funk, and contemporary dance.
Street tap is characterized by its raw energy, improvisation, and connection to the beat of the music. Dancers often perform in casual attire, using the environment around them as their stage. The style encourages creativity and individuality, allowing dancers to express themselves through their unique rhythms and movements.
One of the most notable figures in the street tap movement is Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards, who has been instrumental in bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary tap styles. Her work has inspired a new wave of tap dancers who are pushing the boundaries of the art form and bringing it to new audiences.
The Future of Tap Dance
As tap dance continues to evolve, it remains a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit. The fusion of Broadway elegance with street authenticity has created a dynamic and inclusive art form that resonates with people from all walks of life.
In the coming years, we can expect to see even more innovative and diverse tap dance styles emerge, as dancers continue to explore new rhythms, techniques, and collaborations. Whether on the stage or the street, tap dance will undoubtedly remain a vibrant and influential force in the world of dance.
