International Tap Dance Day

1_1_Tap Shoes_Suzanne MartinOne pair of my comfy tap shoes and a favourite piece of music from 42nd Street.

Happy Feet: Celebrating International Tap Dance Day and the Legacy of Bill “Bojangles” Robinson

Just some fun info about another passion of mine-Tap Dancing.

Did you know that every year on May 25th, dancers across the world pull on their tap shoes and celebrate International Tap Dance Day? It's a joyful, rhythmic, toe-tapping celebration of one of the most expressive and timeless forms of dance—and it falls on this day for a very special reason.

May 25th is the birthday of the legendary Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, one of the most iconic tap dancers in history. His talent, charm, and sheer presence on stage changed the dance world forever—and honestly, the world full stop. So today, we’re not just clapping along to the rhythms—we’re honouring a man whose footsteps carved a path for generations of dancers.

shirleytemple1_custom-dae09668f6163bdf441bca50981a63eecbd198c5Bill "Bojangles" Robinson and Shirley Temple perform their famous stair dance in the 1935 film <em>The Little Colonel.</em>

Who Was Bill “Bojangles” Robinson?

Born in 1878, Bill Robinson grew up in Virginia and went on to become one of the best-known and best-loved African American entertainers of the early 20th century. He was a dancer, actor, and true showman, best remembered for his stunningly smooth and light-footed tap style.

He made history in so many ways—not just with his feet, but with his courage. At a time when segregation was deeply ingrained in American society, Bojangles broke barriers. He was one of the first African American performers to appear regularly in films and on stage with white performers. You might remember him from his films dancing alongside Shirley Temple (who adored him).

But he wasn’t just a dancer. He was a mentor, a quiet activist, and a symbol of joy and elegance in a time of deep racial injustice. His signature move—dancing up a staircase—became famous, and still brings a smile to any dance lover’s face.

Why Celebrate Tap Dance?

Tap dance is so much more than just clever footwork. It’s music, rhythm, history, expression—and freedom. It evolved out of African American communities, drawing on African rhythmic traditions, Irish and Scottish step dancing, and American jazz. It's truly a melting pot of cultures that created something entirely its own.

Whether you're a seasoned hoofer or just someone who can't help tapping your toes under the table, tap dance is for everyone. It's joyful, it's playful, and it's alive with history.

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How You Can Celebrate International Tap Dance Day

• Watch a classic: Look up Bill Robinson’s iconic dance scenes. "The Little Colonel" with Shirley Temple is a good start.
• Take a tap class: There are heaps of online tutorials if you fancy a go from your own lounge.
• Share the rhythm: Post a video of your own tap, a favourite performance, or a simple rhythm—just celebrate the sound.
• Support tap dancers: Local studios, teachers, and performers often share work on social media today—cheer them on!

Fred AstaireOne of the most famous of all in the tap dance world, Fred Astaire.

Let’s Keep the Rhythm Going

Bill Bojangles Robinson once said, “Everything’s copacetic.” It was his catchphrase—his way of saying everything's just fine, cool, in rhythm. And today, as we celebrate his life and the joy of tap dance, we’re reminded to keep moving, keep smiling, and keep dancing—especially when the world feels a little out of step.

So here’s to the music in our feet, the legacy in every shuffle, and the joy that dance brings. Happy International Tap Dance Day, everyone!