Madison and Morgan Mallum from Lincoln, Nebraska, aren’t your typical set of sisters.
Alongside their triplet brother Monroe, the siblings have been clogging since the age of five, ultimately making a name for themselves in the clogging world. According to Doubletoe Times Magazine of Clogging, Madison and Morgan have won numerous regional and national awards for their duets together. At one point, they were even recruited into “Tap This!”, a four-time national championship clogging team led by Joel Harrison.
For those who are unaware, clogging is a form dance with a long and fascinating history.
The dance consists of using the heels and toes to create an audible rhythm to the downbeat of the song. It’s similar to tap dancing except clogging traditionally does not incorporate upper body movements, with the emphasis being on the legs and feet.
The dance was historically performed in wooden, clog shoes. However, during the Industrial Revolution of the late 1700s, the shoes evolved, ultimately incorporating a one-piece wooden bottom and leather upper.
According to BBC, clogging during this time was originally performed by farmers and slate quarry workers. The energetic dance style became a show of athleticism and stamina, with dancers incorporating various “tricks” into their routines— like putting out candles with their feet.
As the Appalachian Mountains were settled by Irish, Scottish, English, and Dutch-German immigrants, a version of clogging incorporating these regional differences formed. Later, it was also influenced by cultural groups like indigenous Cherokee tribes and Russian Gypsies, becoming the modern form we know today.
In 2013, the Clogging Champions of America (CCA) was formed to generate more activity and interest in clogging.
The league tries to make clogging accessible for everyone including beginners, but only skilled dancers will advance to the Showdown of Champions league. Back in 2013, this is where Morgan and Madison found themselves— competing for the title in Knoxville, Tennessee.
In the video, you see the sisters wearing matching outfits with yellow, plaid shirts and white jeans.
As the performance begins, they stand with their backs to the audience, ready to wow the crowd.
Soon, the music plays and the girls’ fancy footwork begins.
Watching the two ‘clog’ their way across the stage is absolutely mesmerizing. Their moves are completely synchronous, and it’s impossible to take your eyes away from their fast-paced steps.
Clasping hands, they spin, kick and twirl, adding modern touches to the traditional dance.
By the time they’re finished, the crowd can’t help roar.
Since being uploaded to YouTube, the sisters’ unique performance has been viewed hundreds of thousands of times. People are impressed by their energy and stamina— not to mention their mind-blowing moves!
“Wow! Clogging is energetic!”
“You go girls! I don’t know if they won the competition, but they should have!”
“Love this! This is wonderful!”
Watch the video below!
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