Virginia Tech's Tap Ensemble Set to Perform in Dance Co. Spring Showcase

Tap dancing is a form of dance that has been around for hundreds of years that originated in the United States.  Tap dancing has roots in the cultures of African Americans and Irish people. “Tap dancing is a facet of American culture today that most people associate with Broadway or variety shows,” Dabney Murphy said.  

Virginia Tech has a small organization called the Tap Ensemble that meets every weekend in preparation for a performance. “Everyone that is a part of this ensemble has different levels of experience with tap; having this organization allows for us to hone our skills, as well as, have an outlet to do what we love,” Murphy said.  

The presence of the Tap Ensemble on Virginia Tech’s campus underscores the efforts and passion to sustain tap dancing, even with the smaller community. 

While this Tap Ensemble may not get the same coverage or spotlight that a professional group may, it is a small facet of the community that gives tap dancers or those interested in tap dancing an outlet.   

“Often times kids starting in dance don’t pick tap, they start with ballet; I wish that tap dancing was something more people were able to get an earlier start on,” Murphy mentioned. This emphasizes the desire for more accessibility and promotion of tap dance from a younger age. 

As time goes on, there is a hope that the Virginia Tech Tap Ensemble continues to grow and garner more student attention. “I just hope that our little organization can garner more interest and spread joy through dance, especially through seeing us be able to perform,” Murphy stated. 

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