National Tap Dance Day Toronto 09
May 29, 2009
Happy National Tap Dance Day to all the hoofers, tap dance supporters, teachers, photographers, videographers, researchers and everyone who continues to share the love of tap dance.
We honour the birthday of Bill “Bojangles” Robinson (May 25th, 1878) who opened the doors for tapdancers around the world to perform on film.
Bojangles was famous for his work teaching and performing with Shirley Temple (in photograph). He was a left-footed tapdancer, light on his toes, with a charming stage presence.
His personal life not as charming, and Bojangles used alcohol as a councellor. Despite his private life’s worries, Bill Robinson left a historic impression and memory for all tap dancers worldwide.
Toronto has an annual celebration at Nathan Phillips Square, 12 pm. Cities around the world continue the celebration with shows, screenings, lectures and tap dance classes from pioneers of the art to the next generation of tap instructors and choreographers.
Here’s footage of myself performing at City Hall in honour of “Mr Bojangles”
Dance is universal. I encourage you to keep the dance alive and support the art form however you can, where ever you are!
- Shawn Byfield
Entry Filed under: Uncategorized. Tags: Bill Bojangles Robinson, Bill Robinson, National Tap Dance Day, Shawn Byfield, tap dance, tap dance class, tap dance day, tap dance history.
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1.
Melissa Wright | May 29, 2009 at 12:29 pm
Happy National Tap Dance Day shawn!! Can’t wait to tap with you again!
2.
Shelby | May 29, 2009 at 3:21 pm
Happy National Tap Dance Day!!
Great times tapping with you Shawn!
Tap is my life. <3
3.
Marilyn Huziak | June 11, 2009 at 11:49 am
National Tap Dance Day is a great opportunity for recreational tap dancers to showcase their work, such as my class of adults and seniors – Goulding Community Tap Dancers. It is a highlight of the year. Thanks Heather. Great to see you again Shawn.