Tap dance is much more than a collection of steps. It is a living art form shaped by centuries of cultural exchange, innovation, resilience, and artistic expression. Understanding tap dance history provides dancers with a deeper appreciation of the artists, communities, and traditions that shaped the form we know today.

Each month, through historical stories, archival footage, discussion, and movement exploration, students will trace tap dance from its origins in African and Irish dance traditions through vaudeville, the Harlem Renaissance, the Golden Age of tap, the rhythm tap revival, and into contemporary tap culture. Along the way, students will study influential dancers, historic repertoire, foundational vocabulary, and the social and cultural forces that influenced the development of tap dance. Suitable for ages 12+, for all levels of dance ranging from Advanced Beginner to Advanced+.

CLASS ONE - SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3 from 3:00-4:30pm at The Rhythm Room (8713 Cambie Street)

Explore the cultural foundations of tap dance: West African rhythmic traditions, Irish dance influences, patting juba, and early jigging. Students will explore basic rhythmic movement inspired by these traditions. Discuss how cultural exchange provided roots for early tap dance and examine the history of minstrel shows, blackface performance, and the Five Points district. Explore movement vocabulary that emerged during this period. Learn how tap became a professional performance art through vaudeville circuits. Students will study different vaudeville specialties and create short performance combinations inspired by historical acts. BRING WITH YOU:  A pen, notebook, shoes, curiosity and your love of TAP DANCE!

West Coast Tap Member Price: $30

Non-Member Price: $45

*No one turned away due to lack of funds. Please contact us if you need a little help ❤️