Tappy hour: an open tap workshop for all levels

This is a cross-published piece with Mustang News, more information can be found here.

“Can’t Hold Us,” by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis blasts through the speakers in the Crandall Gym dance studio as landscape architecture freshman Caitlyn Headley instructs her first tap class. 

She teaches a group of three other tap dancers a combination during the open workshop. She alternates teaching with assistant professor of dance Leann Alduenda depending on the week.

Headley demonstrates the combination in sections, teaching small sections one at a time and checking in with the dancers frequently.

“It’s kind of hard that you have to really over exaggerate everything, really clarifying and making sure people understand what you’re trying to say,” Headley said. 

Tappy Hour, a free event occurring on various Fridays throughout the quarter from 4 to 5 p.m., is structured with a 10 minute warm up, 15 minutes of “across the floor” and a final combination taught by a student or Alduenda.

Originally hosted by dance professor Horacio Heredia, the open workshops began in 2016, dance director Diana Stanton said. Its structure has transitioned from an open jam session to a class coordinated and taught by Alduenda. 

“It’s a really chill vibe,” psychology senior Sophia Bruno said. “I think everyone’s just kind of there to de-stress and just do a little tap dance.”

Attendance ranges from four to eight people every week, Headley said. The workshops are open to everyone of all experience levels. 

“[Alduenda] usually does three levels, so it’s very personal,”  landscape architecture graduate Gracie Mitchell said. “You can choose what kind of challenge you want to have with it.”

Bruno decided to attend her first Tappy Hour after seeing a poster during her junior year. 

“I didn’t have my tap shoes here with me,” Bruno said. “But I was like, ‘I’ll just try it in sneakers.’” 

In comparison to other styles of dance, tap is more accessible and easier on the body, Mitchell said. 

“It’s not a dance style that requires flexibility,” Mitchell said. “I feel like what’s so cool about tap is, we can continue this into our adult life.”

The next Tappy Hour will be held on June 6.