5 Famous Tap Dancers and Their Classic Tap Moves

In today’s blog post we will be sharing facts about some of the most iconic tap dancers of all time! ?

Tap is one of the most well-known dance forms. The style became widely recognised during the American golden age of cinema where many famous actors/dancers were showcased in films. Tap has since continued to be a popular style in dance studios, and the legacies of those tap dancers continue on professional stages as well as in dance studios.

• Bill “Bojangles” Robinson was a famous American tap dancer whose styles and movements became very influential for future tap dancers. Some of his famous movements included his famous “stair dance” which can be found here and his ability to run backwards almost as fast as others could run forward. 

• Jeni LeGon was a tap dancer and actress and was known as one of the first women of colour to establish a solo career in tap dance. She danced with Fred Astaire and Bill ‘Bojangles’ Robinson on film. Unfortunately, due to the racial attitudes of her time,LeGon’s career was restricted.  

• Gene Kelly is possibly one of the most well-known tap dancers. He made his mark in both Broadway and Hollywood starring in classics such as An American in Paris, Singin’ in the Rain, and Hello, Dolly!

• Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers were tap dance partners. They are regarded as influences for choreographers such as Bob Fosse and George Balanchine. Astaire starred in more than ten Broadway musicals and Rogers appeared in iconic films like Swing Time, Shall We Dance and Carefree.

If you are interested in trialling or enrolling in a tap class, Dance Factor offers tap classes for all ages from preschoolers to adults. Enquire today! Email: info@dancefactor.com.au

Dance Factor is a Wollongong-based dance studio.

Dance Factor is a Wollongong-based dance studio, offering classes in all styles for all ages and abilities. If you are interested in enrolling or trialling a class or have any general enquiries contact info@dancefactor.com.au.