Originating in the 19th century, tap dancing stands as one of America's original dance art forms. This unique dance style evolved from a fusion of African and Irish influences, transforming into a percussive dance characterized by intricate rhythmic step movements and combinations. So beloved is tap dancing that it has earned its own dedicated holiday, celebrated on May 25th and aptly named National Tap Dance Day.

Purpose and Significance

• Honoring the History of Tap Dance: Tap dance has deep roots in American culture, with influences from African American, Irish, and English dance traditions. National Tap Dance Day recognizes the cultural and artistic impact of this dance form.

• Commemorating Bill “Bojangles” Robinson: The date of May 25 was chosen to honor the birthday of Bill “Bojangles” Robinson (1878-1949), one of the most famous tap dancers in history. Robinson was known for his light, graceful style and for breaking racial barriers in the entertainment industry, particularly in vaudeville and film.

• Promoting Tap Dance: The day encourages people to appreciate and participate in tap dancing. Whether through performances, workshops, or simply learning a few steps, National Tap Dance Day promotes engagement with the art form.

History and Origin

National Tap Dance Day was signed into law in 1989 by U.S. President George H.W. Bush, after a resolution was introduced by Representative John Conyers and Senator Alfonse D’Amato. The goal was to create a national day that would recognize the contributions of tap dance to American culture.

The observance is not only about celebrating the artistry of tap dance but also acknowledging its cultural significance. Tap dance emerged in the early 19th century through a blending of African rhythms and European jig dance styles, particularly in the context of minstrel shows. Over time, tap dance evolved into a significant part of American musical theater, film, and entertainment.

Key Figures in Tap Dance

• Bill “Bojangles” Robinson: A legendary tap dancer, Robinson is remembered for his grace and light footwork, particularly his ability to "tap on his toes." He also made history by performing in film alongside Shirley Temple, becoming one of the first African American dancers to perform in mainstream American films.

• Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers: This iconic duo brought tap dance to Hollywood’s golden age. Fred Astaire's elegant style, blending ballroom with tap, made him a cinematic legend.

• Savion Glover: Known for his modern take on tap, Savion Glover is a Tony Award-winning dancer and choreographer who revitalized the tap dance scene with his dynamic and rhythmic performances.

How to Celebrate National Tap Dance Day

1. Attend or Watch Performances: Many dance studios, theaters, and arts organizations host tap dance performances to commemorate the day. Some may even offer virtual performances or archived recordings of famous tap routines.

2. Take a Tap Dance Class: Whether you're a beginner or have prior experience, tap dance classes are a fun and energetic way to get involved. Studios often offer introductory sessions around National Tap Dance Day.

3. Learn About Tap Dance History: Explore the history of tap dance by reading books, watching documentaries, or visiting websites that focus on the art form. Learning about its roots in African American culture and its evolution through vaudeville, Broadway, and Hollywood can deepen appreciation for the dance.

4. Host or Participate in a Tap Jam: Tap dance jams are informal gatherings where dancers take turns performing short solos, improvising and showcasing their personal styles. This tradition allows dancers to interact through rhythm and movement.

5. Support Local Tap Dance Artists and Schools: Many tap dancers and schools rely on community support to thrive. Donating to tap dance programs or attending local shows is a great way to support the art form.

6. Try Tap Dancing at Home: You don’t need professional tap shoes to get started. There are online tutorials available for beginners, and you can practice basic steps and rhythms from home.

Cultural and Social Impact

• African American Roots: Tap dance has deep connections to African American cultural history. It originated as a form of expression during slavery and later evolved into a performance art in minstrel shows, vaudeville, and the Harlem Renaissance. The percussive rhythms of tap dance are rooted in African traditions of music and dance.

• Integration of Cultures: Tap dance is a fusion of African and European influences, particularly Irish step dancing. This blending of cultures reflects the broader cultural exchanges that shaped American music and dance.

• Breaking Racial Barriers: Figures like Bill Robinson helped integrate tap dance into mainstream entertainment, crossing racial barriers at a time when segregation was still rampant. His collaborations with white actors like Shirley Temple were groundbreaking in Hollywood.

• Influence on Modern Dance and Music: Tap dance’s emphasis on rhythm has influenced not only dance but also jazz and music improvisation. Contemporary artists like Savion Glover have pushed the boundaries of tap dance, incorporating modern musical styles and elevating the art form to new levels.

Fun Facts about Tap Dance

• The term “tap” comes from the tapping sound made by the metal plates on the dancer’s shoes. Early tap shoes didn’t have these plates and relied on the dancer’s footwork and hard-soled shoes to create sound.

• Bill Robinson's signature routine, known as the "stair dance," involved him dancing up and down stairs in a rhythmic, seemingly effortless manner.

• Tap dance was originally called "jig dancing" in reference to the Irish jig, a precursor to the more modern form of tap dancing.

• Tap dance is sometimes called “America’s original dance form”, as it is one of the few art forms developed in the United States.

Modern Tap Dance

Today, tap dance continues to evolve and influence various forms of performance art. It remains an important part of musical theater, with classic Broadway productions like 42nd Street and Anything Goes featuring extensive tap numbers. Tap dancing also appears in pop culture, with its rhythms influencing everything from jazz to hip hop.

The resurgence of interest in tap dance, especially through dancers like Savion Glover, has brought tap back into the limelight, with performances that focus on improvisation, rhythm, and the percussive elements of dance. Tap dance festivals and competitions around the world keep the tradition alive and inspire new generations of dancers.

Impact on Dance Culture

Tap dance has a unique role in both American dance culture and music. Its emphasis on rhythm allows dancers to become part of the music, rather than simply dancing to it. This interaction between dancer and musician has influenced jazz music, as tap dancers often perform alongside live jazz bands, creating a dynamic exchange between rhythm and melody.

National Tap Dance Day not only commemorates the past but also looks to the future, ensuring that tap dance remains a vibrant and evolving art form for generations to come.