Tap dance is a unique genre that consists of wearing shoes with metal plates on the soles that when clicked on the floor make a tapping sound. As a combination of classical, post-modern, jazz, and Broadway dance styles, it’s something that’s often incorporated into all kinds of professional shows.
A long history
Initially, tap was a big part of vaudeville. That means it has historical roots dating back to 1902. Throughout the 1930s and into the 1940s, this dance style remained popular. But as new genres emerged, it kind of took a back seat.
Revitalized
But then in 1973, an award-winning documentary entitled “No Maps on My Taps” created new interest in tap dancing. Since that time, it’s again become a highly regarded style of dance. As a matter of fact, it’s commonly taught to children who take lessons. Once in a while, a student emerges who’s so good, they go on to make headlines.
Dance Elite
Every year, organizations put on shows that spotlight the best dance talent. In 2019, Dance Elite showcased an incredible young tap dancer. Not only did he mesmerize everyone in attendance but also hundreds upon hundreds of people online. He even received the MVP award for his performance.
Interesting song choice
Most tap dancers select a relatively fast-paced song with a distinct beat. It’s the rhythm of the music they tap to. But one young man went in a completely different direction. He decided to do something unique by dancing tap to the acapella version of “Faith.”
He gets right into it
When the video begins, you see this guy standing with his back against the audience. But the minute you hear the first words of the song, he’s already going strong, “Well, I guess it would be nice if I could touch your body. I know not everybody has got a body like you.”
On point
As the song continues, “But I gotta think twice before I give my heart away, and I know all the games you play because I played them, too,” he continually kicks things into a higher gear. He’s doesn’t miss a step while showing off some fancy footwork.
Super talented
Along with more traditional tap steps, he adds in some things a lot of people have never seen. He also does some cool slides. His tapping is fast and furious, which shows just how gifted this young man is. There’s no question he’s worked hard on his craft.
The full experience
After watching this guy perform, you feel like you just watched the best tap dance ever. For one thing, the blue lighting creates a level of mystery and intrigue. But this tapper also does something that a lot of dancers fail to do…he uses the entire stage. It’s no wonder he received the MVP award.
Having a blast
Another reason people loved this particular performance so much is that this tapper was having so much fun. His joy showed in all of his facial expressions. That made the audience even more enthralled with the show. It was truly exciting.
Spins, twists, and turns
If you’ve ever tapped dance before, then you know this genre requires a lot of athleticism. Especially when dancing for more than two minutes, you have to be in excellent physical shape. And as fast as this guy tapped, he’s not just a fantastic dancer but also a great athlete.
Giving credit
Sure, this young man did all the hard work on stage but you also have to admire his dance instructors. They took someone with a natural gift and created a masterpiece. Throughout this entire performance, he nails it.
Inspirational
This performance is exactly what it takes to get other dancers interested in tap. Watching him go through this piece, there’ll be a lot of young people who look up to him and want to do what he does. Hopefully, this will help give tap yet another boost.
If you want to witness the talent of this tapper for yourself, we invite you to click on the video below. It’s awesome.
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.
