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Tap dance, with its rhythmic footwork and percussive beats, has a rich history that spans across cultures and eras. From the vaudeville stages of the early 20th century to today's contemporary performances, tap dance continues to captivate audiences worldwide. In this section, we'll delve into the diverse tap dance styles, tracing their evolution and celebrating their unique characteristics.
1. Classic Tap Dance (Broadway Style)
Classic tap dance, often associated with Broadway musicals and Hollywood films, is characterized by its elegance, precision, and showmanship. Dancers wear shiny patent leather shoes and execute intricate steps with flair. Here are some key features:
- Time Steps: These foundational steps form the backbone of classic tap. The "Shuffle," "Flap," and "Buffalo" are essential time steps that create rhythmic patterns.
- Soft-Shoe: A subset of classic tap, soft-shoe emphasizes smooth, gliding movements. Dancers perform in soft-soled shoes, allowing for graceful slides and turns. Think of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers dancing across polished ballroom floors.
- Famous Example: Gene Kelly's iconic performance in "Singin' in the Rain" showcases classic tap at its best. His athleticism, combined with joyful expression, epitomizes the genre.
2. Rhythm Tap (Hoofing)
Rhythm tap, also known as "hoofing," focuses on musicality and improvisation. Dancers create intricate rhythms by emphasizing syncopated beats. Here's what sets rhythm tap apart:
- Improvisation: Rhythm tap dancers thrive on spontaneity. They listen to the music and respond with improvised steps, creating a conversation between their feet and the band.
- Stompology: The art of creating complex rhythms through heel drops, toe taps, and shuffles. Savion Glover, a modern-day master, exemplifies stompology in his performances.
- Famous Example: The Nicholas Brothers, Fayard, and Harold wowed audiences with their acrobatic moves and lightning-fast footwork. Their routine in the film "Stormy Weather" remains legendary.
3. Contemporary Tap
Contemporary tap pushes boundaries, blending traditional techniques with modern influences. Here's what defines this evolving style:
- Fusion: Contemporary tap incorporates elements from hip-hop, jazz, and even African dance. Dancers experiment with different rhythms, body isolations, and unconventional footwear.
- Body Percussion: Beyond footwork, contemporary tap explores using other body parts—hands, chest, and head—to create percussive sounds. It's a holistic approach to rhythm.
- Famous Example: Michelle Dorrance, a trailblazer in contemporary tap, seamlessly integrates athleticism, humor, and innovation. Her company, Dorrance Dance, redefines the genre.
Tap dance styles continue to evolve, reflecting the spirit of each era. Whether you're drawn to the elegance of classic tap, the spontaneity of rhythm tap, or the experimentation of contemporary tap, one thing remains constant: the joy of making music with your feet. So, lace up your tap shoes and explore this vibrant world—one step at a time!