Who created National Tap Dance Day?
President George H.W. Busch
NATIONAL TAP DANCE DAY HISTORY The bill came to fruition when President George H.W. Busch signed it into law on November 8, 1989. The law created a one-time official observance on May 25, 1989, the anniversary of Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, a significant contributor to tap dance born in 1878.
What era in America took away from tap dancing?
In the mid- to late 1950s, the style of entertainment changed. Jazz music and tap dance declined, while rock and roll and the new jazz dance emerged. What is now called jazz dance evolved from tap dance, so both styles have many moves in common.
Is there a National Tap Dance Day?
Now therefore, be it resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, that May 25 is designated “National Tap Dance Day.” The President is authorized and requested to issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States to observe such a day with …
How did tap dancing start in America?
Tap dance originated in the United States in the early 19th century at the crossroads of African and Irish American dance forms. When slave owners took away traditional African percussion instruments, slaves turned to percussive dancing to express themselves and retain their cultural identities.
Why is National Tap Dance Day on May 25TH?
TO DESIGNATE MAY 25 AS NATIONAL TAP DANCE DAY. MAY 25TH Was Chosen To Commemorate The Birth Of Bill Robinson (May 25th 1878) And His Outstanding Contribution To The Art Of Tap Dancing On Both Stage And Film Through The Unification Of Diverse Stylistic And Racial Elements.
What day is identified as National Tap Dance Day and why?
May 25
National Tap Dance Day falls on May 25 every year, and is a celebration of tap dance as an American art form. The idea of National Tap Dance Day was first presented to U.S. Congress on February 7, 1989, and was signed into US American Law by President George H.W. Bush, on November 8, 1989.
Is tap dance an American dance?
Tap dance is an indigenous American dance genre that evolved over a period of some three hundred years. Initially a fusion of British and West African musical and step-dance traditions in America, tap emerged in the southern United States in the 1700s.
Is tap dancing an American thing?
What is the history of tap dancing?
Early history Tap originated in the United States through the fusion of several ethnic percussive dances, primarily West African sacred and secular step dances (gioube) and Scottish, Irish, and English clog dances, hornpipes, and jigs. In the mid- to late 1800s, dance competitions were a common form of entertainment.
Who is Tap Dance day in honor of?
Bill “Bojangles” Robinson
This day was created in honor of the birthday of legendary tap dancer Bill “Bojangles” Robinson on May 25, 1878. You can celebrate National Tap Dance Day in a variety of ways: Learn how to tap dance.
Why is the National Tap Dance Day significant?
National Tap Dance Day was signed into law by U.S President George H.W Bush on November 8, 1989. The first time it was officially observed was on May 25, 1989. This day was chosen because it’s the birthday of Bill Bojangles Robinson, one of the most significant contributors to the art of tap dancing.