To wonder what the point of tap dancing is?

[Fairynufff]

My 2 DDs have started 'dancing' classes but the level of professionalism and outlay on dancing kit is not really proportionate (IMO)with the fact that they are just 2 little kids who want to go to a little dancing club. And tap dancing? WTF is that all about? Where do we even see tap dancing as a genuine form of entertainment? (apart from that irritating Vodaphone advert)...

Watch Fred Astaire or Gene Kelly and there's your answer!

Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly? You 'avin a laff?

well, mine do Irish dancing which isn't exactly the same, but I think the point is it's fun, and...... I like that it is one activity that your son and your daughter can do together.

not your son and your daughter! My son and My daughter/ I should have said ones

this is the point of tap dancing

as is this

and this

not forgetting Moses Supposes

lockets - Fred Astaire. Gene Kelly. So last century darling!

And they are grown men. Why is it relevant to my little girls?

That's great for children. Unlike Ballet, the less graceful or heavier children don't look comical. It's fun, it's fast, it's good exercise, it teaches rhythm and is a good basis for any other dance classes taken.

Catherine Zeeeeta JONEs tap dancing in 42nd street in 1985 led to greater things..

hi Fairynuff!

I agree that to begin with tap dancing may not appear to have much point (or look and sound very pretty), but I do tap classes and I really love it

It is all about rhythm, and that in itself is something that's quite intrinsically satisfying (making a noise). Also it is technically difficult - you have to think quite a lot when you are doing it. It is also excellent exercise for the legs, bum and ankles.

You should try it.

Annie - no. Mary Poppins - again, tap dancing GROWN MEN mainly...

Also, really old films.

what's the point of anything, man?

ah. so what you mean fairynuff, is that it's not sexy!!!!

Well does it need to be?

HOnestly, what do you want your daughters to take from the class? Rhythm, fun, the ability to learn complicated steps, the ability to memorise a routine...

All excellent grounding for any dance!! Even the sexier ones, such as Sevillanas...

something more modern for you

Hello screamingabdab. Haven't got time to try it but thank you for your informative and generous post - nothing less than I have come to expect from you!

Don't know how to do links, but check out Savion Glover on You Tube.

He dances entirely without music most of the time. It's pure percussion - amazing. Again not very "pretty", but your girls might love to do it

Molesworth - I lurved Tap Dogs. You've almost convinced me. I love it when people take the time to re-educate me about my prejudices!

Nit picking but men again though.

I don't know why you are sending them if you don't see the point. It is something I would like to have a go at myself one day.

Molesworth. Love Tap Dogs!

I feel quite strongly about tap - it's the only hobby I have. Do you dance too?

Fairynuff