GFADAF EP 1 - If Tap Dance Is Dying, Then What Is It Dying From?
Jul 16, 2021
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This podcast explores the decline of tap dance as an art form and the theories behind it. It discusses the influence of rock and roll, racist portrayals in films, and the detrimental effect of stereotypes on tap dancing. The complexities of criticizing a black community leader during the Jim Crow era and the distortion of characters in plays are also analyzed.
39:56
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Quick takeaways
The decline of tap dance can be traced back to a racially charged portrayal in the film 'The Littlest Rebel', perpetuating stereotypes of subservience and hindering its recognition as a diverse and expressive art form.
Hollywood's portrayal of minstrel characters, coupled with the appropriation of tap dance by white performers in blackface, solidified tap dance as an art form associated with racism and caricature, impacting how it is viewed by both black and white communities today.
Deep dives
The Mystery Behind Tap Dance's Decline
Tap dance has long been considered a dying art form, but few seem to know why. Theories range from the decline of Vaudeville and jazz music to the impact of rock and roll. However, the true beginning of tap dance's decline can be traced back to a pivotal scene in the 1935 film 'The Littlest Rebel', starring Shirley Temple and Bill Robinson. In this scene, Robinson's character, a black servant, responds confusingly to questions about the Civil War and slavery, perpetuating stereotypes of subservience. This portrayal led to Robinson being labeled as an 'Uncle Tom' and tap dance being seen as a racially charged, demeaning form of entertainment. The negative connotations associated with tap dance have continued for decades, perpetuated by minstrel shows and misrepresentations in Hollywood. The ingrained perception of tap dance as a 'slave-like' activity persists today and hinders its recognition as a diverse and expressive art form.
The Impact of Hollywood and Minstrel Shows
Hollywood played a significant role in shaping the negative image of tap dance through the portrayal of minstrel characters, such as Bill Robinson's 'Uncle Tom' roles. In films like 'The Littlest Rebel', the camera work and close-ups emphasized Robinson's grinning face, reinforcing the stereotype of the cheerful, subservient black man. These portrayals, coupled with the appropriation of tap dance by white performers in blackface, further solidified tap dance as an art form associated with racism and caricature. These harmful representations persist in popular culture and impact how tap dance is viewed by both black and white communities today.
Negative Perceptions and Contemporary Reactions
The negative views of tap dance have been perpetuated over time, even by individuals within the black community itself. On the 'Black on Black Cinema' podcast, hosts expressed skepticism and discomfort with tap dance, associating it with servitude and subservience. This example highlights the deeply ingrained negative perceptions and stereotypes that continue to hinder the appreciation and understanding of tap dance. Even in modern times, there is a need to educate and challenge these misconceptions in order to foster a more inclusive and informed view of tap dance.
The Hope of Tap Dance's Evolution
Despite its troubled history and negative associations, tap dance has the potential to evolve and regain its rightful place as a respected art form. There have been innovators and champions of tap dance who have kept the art form alive during its decline. It is essential to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions and resilience of these individuals, as well as to continue educating and spreading awareness about the true essence of tap dance. By understanding its history and breaking free from stereotypes, tap dance can thrive and regain its status as a vibrant and diverse art form.
People often say “you know, tap dance is a dying art form”, but they never mention why it is dying, or from what. Has tap dance been wounded in some way? Poisoned? Could it be…sabatogey! Old cartoon references aside, there are many theories about the decline of tap dance from it’s position as the United States’ most popular dance form in the 1930s to a a relatively niche effort in the 1970s. Host Tristan Bruns goes over the various theories of what ails tap dance and even presents one of his own.
Support this program by joining us on Patreon. 50% of all support goes to the M.A.D.D. Rhythms Tap Academy at the Harold Washington Cultural Center on Chicago's historic South Side.
