Rhythmical patterns of foot movements and audible foot tapping. It is derived from the traditional clog
dance of northern England, the jigs and reels of Ireland and Scotland, and the rhythmic foot stamping of
African dances. Popular in 19th-century minstrel shows, versions such as "buck-and-wing" (danced
vigorously in wooden-soled shoes) and "soft-shoe" (danced smoothly in soft-soled shoes) developed
as separate techniques; by 1925 they had merged, and metal taps were attached to shoe heels and
toes to produce a more pronounced sound. The dance was also popular in variety shows and early
musicals.
Bingham Center
Tap
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