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A tap dancer's craft - Andrew Nemr

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Tap dance, born out of the marriage of African and European dance traditions, went from extremely popular to barely existent to grand revival, all in under a century. Professional tap dancer and TED Fellow Andrew Nemr taps into the history of this truly American art form.

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Mentored by Gregory Hines, Andrew is considered one of the most hardworking and diverse tap dance artists today. Whether playing with Nat Adderley Jr., directing CPD PLUS, or co-founding the Tap Legacy™ Foundation, Inc., Andrew has garnered a reputation for impeccable musicianship and sensitivity and respect for the craft that he loves. http://andrewnemr.com/The Tap Legacy Foundation, Inc., was established in 2002 by tap dancers Gregory Hines and Andrew J. Nemr with a mission to preserve and advance the art of tap dance. With a vision to continually promote tap dance's vast history and varied contributors, the foundation's ultimate goal is the building of a cultural center in New York City dedicated to tap dance. A tap solo by Andrew: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=aU0lZZ743c0#!The Copasetics was formed in 1949 by twenty-one men in and around show business in memory of one of the greatest black entertainment icons, Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson. The Copasetics was a vital force in Harlem since its inception and contributed to many charitable and community activities. The Copasetics was a major force in the revival of tap dancing in the late 1970's and 80's. Remembering a Hoofer, An Interview with Donald O'Connor http://danceviewtimes.com/dvny/features/2003/o%27connor.htmlA tap dance solo by Donald O'Connor: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Rx5_IEmzpoNobody could have predicted that the collision of cultures in the New World centuries ago would result in tap,a uniquely American dance form. Yet the fusion of British Isles Clog and Step dancing with the rhythms of West African drumming and dancing in colonial times created an ever-evolving art form that continues to flourish today.
Welcome to the International Tap Association - the only worldwide service organization for tap dance and tap dancers. http://www.tapdance.org/
TED Blog with Andrew Nemr: http://blog.ted.com/2012/07/20/cat-paying-dues-fellows-friday-with-andrew-nemr/ Savion Glover (born November 19, 1973) is an American tap dancer, actor, and choreographer. As a learning prodigy, he was taught by notable dancers from previous generations. Glover is currently interested in restoring African roots to tap. http://www.saviongloverproductions.com/

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Meet The Creators

  • Educator Andrew Nemr
  • Director Angela Cheng
  • Producer Jordan Reeves

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