Tap dance is a rhythmic art form that blends footwork and musicality. It's all about creating percussive sounds with your feet, using steps like flaps, shuffles, and ball changes to build intricate patterns and combinations.

In musical theater, tap dance has a rich history rooted in African and Irish traditions. It became a staple of Broadway shows, showcasing the talents of legendary performers and serving as a powerful means of expression for African American artists.

Tap Dance Fundamentals

Basic tap dance steps

• Flaps involve brushing the foot forward, striking the ball of the foot on the floor, and immediately following with a step on the same foot
• Shuffles require brushing the foot forward, striking the ball of the foot on the floor, then immediately brushing the foot back and striking the ball of the foot on the floor again
• Ball changes involve stepping on the ball of one foot, quickly transferring weight to the ball of the other foot, and can be performed in place or traveling (across the stage)

Simple tap combinations

• Create short phrases by linking basic steps like flaps, shuffles, and ball changes while maintaining a steady rhythm throughout the combination
• Proper technique involves keeping weight on the balls of the feet, maintaining an upright posture with relaxed shoulders and arms, using ankles and knees to create clear, crisp sounds, and emphasizing musicality by accenting certain beats (downbeats) or syncopating rhythms (off-beats)

Tap dance in musical theater

• Tap dance originated from the fusion of African rhythms and Irish step dancing, developed in the United States during the 19th century, and was popularized by African American performers in minstrel shows (blackface entertainment) and vaudeville (variety shows)
• Tap dance was incorporated into Broadway shows in the early 20th century, showcased in productions like "Shuffle Along" (1921) and "Anything Goes" (1934), and featured prominent performers such as Bill "Bojangles" Robinson and the Nicholas Brothers
• Tap dance represents the fusion of African and European dance traditions, served as a means of expression and empowerment for African American performers, and continues to evolve and influence contemporary dance styles (hip-hop, jazz)