Into County Hearts
National Tap Dance Day was designated by an Act of Congress in 1989 to "Honor Tap Dance". The day falls on May 25, the birthday of the late tap legend Bill "Bojangles" Robinson (1878-1949). Robinson tapped next to Shirley Temple in her many movies.
The roots of tap have long been debated, either Irish or African-American, but one thing is for sure, it is uniquely American.
National Tap Dance Day at the Harry Chapin Theater showcased the talents of old tap legends and up and coming stars.
Performing with the Iikes of such international legendary tap-dancing stars as Harold 'Stumpy' Cromer, Ernest 'Brownie' Brown, the Schade Academy of Irish Dancing, Reggio 'The Hofer' McLaughlin, and Traci Mann and The Young Hoofers, the gifted Leggz performers took a backseat to no one.
They strutted their stuff while regaled in attractively designed outfits highlighting their extraordinary flair for in tap shoes Their efforts brought the house down at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow.
Created through the support of the Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation, and Museums, the day's event continues a successful string of thrilling Leggz Dance performances. Including January’s Orange Bowl Half-time Spectacular in Miami, Walt Disney World, and Fox 5’s Good Day New York. The ensemble will perform August 14 at Madison Square Garden during a pre-tip program at the Women’s National Basketball Game hosted by the New York Liberty and will be featured November 27 in the world-famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
It featured an introduction from Michelle O. McFaul, Deputy Commissioner Nassua County Dept. of Parks and Recreation and Museums, and Joan MacNaughton Mistress of Ceremonies and Special Advisor for Cultural Affairs. also starring the John Halsey Jazz Trio.
Act one starred Khalil Reggio, "The Hoofer" McLaughlin, Traci Mann & The Young Hoofers performing the "Bucket Dance" and "Walk Around". The Schade Academy of Irish Dancing performed and Leggz Ltd. Tap Dance Ensemble also performed "Thoroughly Modern Millie".
Act two was composed of performances by Schade academy of Irish Dancing, Ernest "Brownie" Brown and Reggio "The Hoofer". McLaughlin performed "Strike Up My Feet," "The Chair dance," and "Changes Made." Harold "Stumpy" Cromer also performed along with Leggz Ltd. Tap Ensemble who performed "Bring in 'Da Noise/Bring in 'Da Funk.
Leonard Reeds "Shim Sham Shimmy" Finale "It Don't Mean a Thing If You Aint Got That Swing" Finished the night.
If you missed National Tap Dance Night, the Nassau County Dept. of Parks & Recreation will be offering over 40 concerts this summer.