Tap City

Tap City

On Stage at Kingsborough

Kingsborough Community College

October 2, 2015

Photo courtesy of On Stage at Kingsborough

On Stage at Kingsborough kicked off its 2015-16 season on October 2 with Tap City: The Best of the New York City Tap Festival.  It was a relatively short concert (about ninety minutes total, including intermission) that left me wanting more.  The ensemble was diverse, charming, and full of energy.  They skillfully performed a variety of tap dance styles.  This was a great way for On Stage at Kingsborough to start their season that consistently offers a wide range of entertainment for audiences from six to sixty.

The Ensemble of Tap City
Photos Courtesy of On Stage at Kingsborough

Tony Waag, The American Tap Dance Foundation’s Artistic Director, served as Master of Ceremonies for the evening.  All the music was performed live by a trio of piano, bass, and drums.  The program included the rhythm tap of choreographer and master teacher Brenda Bufalino, two Honi Coles classics, and a “Tribute to Musical Ladies of Hollywood” (Ruby Keeler, Ginger Rogers, Ann Miller, Eleanor Powell).  Christopher Broughton was sharp in his “Tribute to Gregory Hines”, capturing his unique style and effervescent energy.  Kazu Kumagai was mesmerizing in his piece “Human Nature”, choreographed in a style similar to that of Savion Glover.  Body percussionist Max Pollak was fascinating in his unique solo that included audience participation.

“The American Tap Dance Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to establishing and legitimizing Tap Dance as a vital component of American Dance through creation, presentation, education, and preservation.”  Tony Waag stated at the beginning of the performance that he wanted the audience to experience the wide range of tap styles that exist.  The evening was successful on all accounts.

If you live in south Brooklyn and are interested in inexpensive tickets to high quality performances, I highly recommend checking out On Stage at Kingsborough this season.  Located on the campus of Kingsborough Community College, parking is free and accessible.  The shows are appropriate for children, families, and seniors.  Do as I do, take your mother and have an enjoyable evening out.

Domenick Danza