Australia’s finest tap-dancing troop, The Tap Pack, will be bringing a touch of old school cool to The Peacock this May with their toe-tapping show combining songs, sharp wit and slick suits for an evening of pure entertainment. In the countdown to their arrival, we’ve been inspired to look back at the some of our favourite tap dance routines from the big screen.
1. SINGING IN THE RAIN (1952)
This musical number is probably one of the most iconic dance scenes in cinema, but it’s that couch-tipping moment which impresses us the most. Apparently the scene took 40 takes to capture but from the finished result, you’d never guess that Debbie Reynolds has no previous dance experience!
2. STORMY WEATHER (1943)
The Nicholas Brothers, Fayard and Harold, give an outstanding performance in the finale to Stormy Weather. It’s no wonder Fred Astaire named the pair as his own tap heroes! The film also showcased the talents of its African-American cast which was rare to see in a Hollywood movie of that time.
3. SWING TIME (1936)
It’s only right that one of the most famous dance duos of the silver screen are featured in our top 10. This clip of Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire from the movie Swing Time is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Working titles for the film, included I Won’t Dance and Never Gonna Dance.
4. TAP (1989)
Gregory Hines plays the ex-convict son of a famous tap dancer, taking over his father’s Harlem tap studio and features the final film performance from Sammy Davis Jr. Aside from the obvious title, this move made our top 5 for its spectacular finale scene. Viewers should also look out for the singing talents of the great Etta James in the Times Square club scene!
5. CHICAGO (2002)
Richard Gere won a Golden Globe for his role in the 2002 movie remake of this Kander and Ebb classic, and it’s no wonder given he trained for months to deliver this impressive tap routine! It is rumoured that both Hugh Jackman and John Travolta turned down the role of Lawyer Billy Flynn before it was eventually offered to Gere.
The Tap Pack runs at The Peacock from 1 to 19 May. Tickets are available now priced from £15 by calling the Ticket Office on 020 7863 8222 or book online.