My favorite style of dance is tap dancing. I have been taking tap classes since I was three years old. Tap dancing is a dance performed wearing fitted leather shoes with metal taps on bottom of the toes and heels. It involves the rhythmical tapping of the toes and heels on the floor as a form of percussion.
The origins of tap dancing date back to the 1700s, when southern African dancers would articulate patterns with their feet. The official “tap dancing” was created by William Henry Lane, and it became popular in 1845. It has continually evolved since this time period, and is a combination of many different cultures and dances, such as European Jig, Reel Steps, Clog, and African Rhythms.
If this is a style that interests you, I would consider studying some of the most famous tap dancers and their work. Here are my top 3 tap dancers, or pairs of dancers, that you should watch.
- Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers
These two are arguably the most famous tap dancing duo on the planet. They were partnered together for a total of 10 films between 1933 and 1949. Their dances look completely effortless when you watch them, but their feet are so fast and precise. Rogers had to learn everything opposite of Astaire, yet she still does every move perfect. They are very entertaining, and their style and grace is still an inspiration for tap dancers all over the world today.
- Gene Kelly
Gene Kelly is just an amazing tap dancer. He is known for his appearance in many films but especially for his tapping in the movie/musical Singin’ in the Rain. He not only is a great tap dancer, but a phenomenal actor as well. When you watch his pieces, he gets really invested in the character he’s playing and it makes his performance so entertaining to watch. When you listen to his tapping, it is so clear and precise, and he is able to accent different parts of the step and make complex, absolutely amazing rhythms. A great piece of his to watch would be “Moses Supposes” from Singin’ in the Rain.
- Savion Glover
Savion Glover is my personal favorite of the tap dancers on this list. I don’t know how he is able to move his feet as quickly and precisely as he does. His rhythm and musicality are perfect. You may know him as the person who did the tap dancing in Happy Feet. I recently watched a video of him doing improv, and it was definitely one of the best videos I’ve ever seen. I would check out his work if you are interested in tap dancing.
What I love most about tap dancing is that you get to add your own twist to the music. You aren’t just creating something for others to watch, you are creating music with your feet. Each dancer brings their own style into play and uses rhythm, accents, style, and their face to convey the music. Tap dancing is a challenge because of the complexity of the rhythms and feet movements but the accomplishment I feel when I conquer a difficult pattern is like nothing else. If you like rhythms and you want a challenge, I would definitely consider taking a tap class.
This was really interesting to read! I was surprised that I actually recognised a few of the names on your list, especially since beyond minimal childhood training, I have had very little interaction with tap.
I loved the format that you chose, it made the article very organised and easy to read. You clearly have a passion for the subject and seem to be very knowledgeable about it as well. I remember watching you in 42nd Street and you seem very talented and skilled yourself. Of course coming from my inexperience that may not mean much, but it was impressive nonetheless.
The athleticism and power that goes into tap, and honestly dance itself, has always amazed me. I’m sure I would be wheezing if I ever attempted to get through a serious tap number. The precision and force that goes into each move is mesmerizing to watch, especially when a group is able to exercise it in perfect synch. Thank you for giving me some more movies to watch and some things to look out for!