Introduction"American Tap" is a 2018 documentary film directed by Mark Wilkinson. The film portrays the rich history of tap dance, its advancement, present trends, prominent figures, and its impact on American culture. The film also exposes the bothersome issues of cultural appropriation related to the dance form.
The Historical Journey"American Tap" expertly catches the journey of tap dancing from the times of slavery to today day. The movie outlines how tap dancing originated as a type of interaction amongst African slaves in the United States, who were prohibited to speak in their languages. This rhythmic kind of expression then mingled with Irish clog dancing in the mid-19th century, therefore giving birth to the contemporary form of tap dancing. The movie likewise talks about the Minstrel Shows which were racially insensitive yet contributed significantly to the spread of this dance kind.
Prominent FiguresIn tracing the advancement of tap, "American Tap" highlights several influential figures who marked different periods of tap dancing. These consist of the similarity Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, who is known for increasing the appeal of tap dance during the Harlem Renaissance, and the Nicholas Brothers, understood for their acrobatic style. Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers are recognized for their efficiencies throughout the golden era of Hollywood, while Savion Glover is lauded for his contribution in redefining tap dancing in recent years.
Culture & SocietyThe documentary skilfully portrays the role of tap dance in American culture and society. This art type served as an effective medium to challenge and break racial barriers in an era of segregation and racial oppressions. It also highlights tap's contribution to other forms of popular music and dance, especially jazz.
The Current State and Future of Tap DancingThe film offers enough proof to suggest that tap dancing, while not mainstream, is far from a dying art. It showcases several young tappers and tap celebrations around the nation. Wiley also resolves the battle to keep tap dancing pertinent and contemporary, which caused the introduction of 'Rhythm Tap.' The current generation of tap dancers, the film suggests, is challenged to keep the historical integrity of the dance kind while innovating and adapting to contemporary designs and needs.
Problematics of Cultural AppropriationWilkinson's documentary likewise checks out the bothersome concerns of cultural appropriation related to tap dance. It was substantiated of African rhythms and then included into white culture. While this blending did offer a platform for African-Americans in carrying out arts, the film likewise shows the unsightly element of how blackface, a practice where performers utilized makeup to imitate Blacks, was used in Minstrel programs.
ConclusionOverall, "American Tap" is not just a film about tap dancing; it is a story about America's cultural, historic, and racial journey translucented the lens of an undervalued art form. With a mix of historical clips, interviews, and efficiencies, the movie uses a detailed introduction of tap dancing, its influences, and its tradition. It is a must-watch for each dance lover or anyone interested in comprehending the complex cultural history of America.
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