Tristan learned the hard way that it was time for a new pair of tap shoes even though he had grown very fond of a certain pair. Know that a new pair of tap shoes are not only important for correcting current problems, but are necessary in preventing a smorgasbord of potentially painful ailments. Here are telltale signs of deterioration, some tips for care and maintenance to prolong the use of your shoes, and a note on refurbishing.
Dance Styles
Deconstructing A Tap Shoe
Tristan covers the anatomy of a tap shoe, types of shoes available, beginner alternatives, materials used, notes on getting the best tone from your tap, shoe support, and even orthotics! Whew! This post is just packed with stuff to make you a more informed customer.
Introducing The Great Tap Shoeganza!
In this series Tristan (our TAPography columnist) helps you find the ideal tap shoes, let you know when it’s time to buy a new pair, and give hands on reviews of the top shoes in the industry.Bloch, SoDanca, Capezio, Leo’s…whose shoe will come out on top? STAY TUNED!
Expand Your Library or Horizons: 13 Books on Dance and Culture
Dr. Renee Rothman, a dancer and cultural anthropologist, share 13 books that address the human meaning and experience of dancing in cultures throughout the world. Selected because they are easy for general audiences to read, these texts cover dance throughout history, Modern Dance, Jazz Dance, and Social Dance in America, Latin Dance, Middle Eastern Dance, and dance in China. Expand your dance library or your horizons with this reading list.
Teacher’s Top Three: Top Low-Tech Props
Alexandra Langstaff has been teaching creative movement and modern dance in Vermont for over 20 years. She spends the majority of her time in pre-schools, elementary schools and day care centers. She shares her Top Three Props with DA readers because they saved her when the electricity went out, the iPod quit and the cute speaker system wasn’t loud enough.
The Skinny On The Bar Method For Ballet Body Fitness
The 411 on The Bar Method as founder, Burr Leonard chats with me about this unique full-body fitness program, its relationship to dance and with dancers, and of course, Black Swan (which they celebrated during a promotional partnership in March). Also, our own Lauren Warnecke tries a class in Chicago and lets you know exactly what she thinks.
