Mirroring Vaudeville
Faculty Mentor(s) Name(s)
Natalie King
Abstract
In the early 1900s, Vaudeville was well-known for eccentric talents, slapstick comedy, and elaborate tap dances. With the rise of television, Vaudevillian entertainment was adapted for the screen. In my presentation, “Mirroring Vaudeville,” I explore the styles and techniques of early film tappers who were and/or took great influence from Vaudevillian styles. Though there are a plethora of incredible tappers from the 1930s on, I focused my research on two major icons of the time. My research contrasts the work of Bill “Bojangles” Robinson and The Nicholas Brothers with my knowledge of modern tap. Differences in stance, posture, foot technique, audience appeal, image, and tricks create stark differences within the same dance form. The influence of Vaudevillian tappers can today be seen stylistically in musical theatre tap. Studying the works of these two artists has increased my appreciation for the mainstream origins of the tap. From its origins to the modern day, tap has boldly unified diverse groups of individuals through dance.
Start Date
27-3-2024 11:00 AM
End Date
27-3-2024 12:00 PM
Location
Arts and Sciences Auditorium
Mirroring Vaudeville
Arts and Sciences Auditorium
In the early 1900s, Vaudeville was well-known for eccentric talents, slapstick comedy, and elaborate tap dances. With the rise of television, Vaudevillian entertainment was adapted for the screen. In my presentation, “Mirroring Vaudeville,” I explore the styles and techniques of early film tappers who were and/or took great influence from Vaudevillian styles. Though there are a plethora of incredible tappers from the 1930s on, I focused my research on two major icons of the time. My research contrasts the work of Bill “Bojangles” Robinson and The Nicholas Brothers with my knowledge of modern tap. Differences in stance, posture, foot technique, audience appeal, image, and tricks create stark differences within the same dance form. The influence of Vaudevillian tappers can today be seen stylistically in musical theatre tap. Studying the works of these two artists has increased my appreciation for the mainstream origins of the tap. From its origins to the modern day, tap has boldly unified diverse groups of individuals through dance.