On this day, February 10, 1989, the dance drama Tap premiered in theaters, bringing together two of the greatest tap dancers of all time Gregory Hines and Sammy Davis Jr.. The film blended classic tap dancing with modern storytelling, showcasing the incredible artistry and history of the dance form.
The story follows Max Washington (Gregory Hines), a talented but troubled dancer recently released from prison, who is torn between returning to a life of crime or reviving his passion for tap. Alongside legendary performers like Sammy Davis Jr., Tap paid homage to the golden age of dance while pushing it into a contemporary era.
Tap was also historically significant as it marked the final film appearance of Sammy Davis Jr., one of the most influential entertainers of the 20th century. Davis, who had been a pioneer in tap dance since childhood, delivered a memorable performance that made the film a heartfelt tribute to his legacy. Many real life legendary tap dancers made cameo appearances in Tap, including Arthur Duncan, Harold Nicholas, and Jimmy Slyde, adding authenticity to the film’s dance sequences.
80s insight: The late 1980s celebrated traditional art forms through modern cinematic storytelling.
The story follows Max Washington (Gregory Hines), a talented but troubled dancer recently released from prison, who is torn between returning to a life of crime or reviving his passion for tap. Alongside legendary performers like Sammy Davis Jr., Tap paid homage to the golden age of dance while pushing it into a contemporary era.
Tap was also historically significant as it marked the final film appearance of Sammy Davis Jr., one of the most influential entertainers of the 20th century. Davis, who had been a pioneer in tap dance since childhood, delivered a memorable performance that made the film a heartfelt tribute to his legacy. Many real life legendary tap dancers made cameo appearances in Tap, including Arthur Duncan, Harold Nicholas, and Jimmy Slyde, adding authenticity to the film’s dance sequences.
80s insight: The late 1980s celebrated traditional art forms through modern cinematic storytelling.
