1.
Which tap dancer is famous for his 'Stair Dance'?
Correct Answer
B. Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson
Explanation
Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson is famous for his 'Stair Dance'. He was an American tap dancer and actor who gained popularity for his innovative and energetic dancing style. Robinson's 'Stair Dance' became one of his signature routines, where he would dance up and down a set of stairs with incredible speed and precision. His talent and contributions to tap dancing made him a highly influential figure in the art form, and he remains a celebrated icon in the history of dance.
2.
In the 1930's, the Nicholas Brothers danced at this famous New York Club:
Correct Answer
C. The Cotton Club
Explanation
During the 1930s, the Nicholas Brothers, who were a famous dance duo, performed at The Cotton Club in New York. The Cotton Club was a renowned and popular nightclub during that time, known for its performances by African-American musicians, dancers, and entertainers. The Nicholas Brothers' exceptional dancing skills made them a perfect fit for the lively and vibrant atmosphere of The Cotton Club.
3.
Which tap dancer is famous for appearing in movies with Shirley Temple?
Correct Answer
A. Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson
Explanation
Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson is the correct answer because he is widely known for his tap dancing performances in movies alongside Shirley Temple. He had a successful career in Hollywood during the 1930s and was often paired with Temple in several films, including "The Little Colonel" and "Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm." Robinson's unique style and skill as a tap dancer made him a popular figure in the entertainment industry, and his collaborations with Shirley Temple helped solidify his fame.
4.
Which female tap dancer was known for her 'machine gun' fast tapping in the 1940's and 1950's?
Correct Answer
D. Ann Miller
Explanation
Ann Miller was a female tap dancer known for her incredibly fast tapping skills, often compared to the rapid fire of a machine gun. She gained recognition in the 1940s and 1950s for her energetic and precise footwork, which made her a standout performer in the tap dancing community. Miller's talent and unique style set her apart from other female tap dancers of her time, making her a memorable figure in the history of tap dancing.
5.
Which tap dancer appeared with Gene Kelly and Debbie Renoylds in MGM's 'Singing in the Rain'?
Correct Answer
B. Donald O'Connor
Explanation
Donald O'Connor is the correct answer because he appeared alongside Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds in the MGM musical film "Singing in the Rain." O'Connor played the role of Cosmo Brown, a comedic sidekick and best friend to Gene Kelly's character. His memorable performance in the film included the iconic "Make 'Em Laugh" dance number. Fred Astaire was a renowned dancer but did not appear in "Singing in the Rain." Fred Kelly was Gene Kelly's brother, but he did not appear in the film either. Buddy Ebsen was a dancer and actor, but he did not appear in "Singing in the Rain."
6.
Some historians think that tap dancing is a mix of which dance forms:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
Tap dancing is believed to be a combination of Irish Step Dance, African Dance, and English Clog Dance. Historians suggest that the rhythmic footwork and percussive movements of tap dancing originated from these three dance forms. Irish Step Dance contributed intricate footwork and quick leg movements, while African Dance contributed the use of polyrhythms and syncopation. English Clog Dance added the use of wooden-soled shoes and the emphasis on creating rhythmic sounds with the feet. Therefore, tap dancing is considered to be a fusion of these three dance styles.
7.
This small room in a New York club served as the 'Harlem head-quarters for tap dancers' in the 1930's:
Correct Answer
A. The Hoofers Club
Explanation
The correct answer is The Hoofers Club. This small room in a New York club was known as the 'Harlem headquarters for tap dancers' in the 1930s.
8.
Leonard Reed is known for this tap dance routine:
Correct Answer
C. The Shim Sham Shimmy
Explanation
Leonard Reed is known for his tap dance routine called "The Shim Sham Shimmy." This routine is a popular and iconic dance in the tap dance community. It involves a series of steps and movements that are performed in sync with the music. The Shim Sham Shimmy is often taught and performed at dance studios and events, and it has become a staple in tap dance repertoire. Leonard Reed's mastery of this routine has made him well-known and respected in the tap dance world.
9.
The famous tap dancer who starred in the film 'Tap' was:
Correct Answer
B. Gregory Hines
Explanation
Gregory Hines is the correct answer because he was a renowned tap dancer who starred in the film 'Tap'. He gained fame for his exceptional tap dancing skills and was widely recognized for his contributions to the art form. Hines' performance in the film showcased his talent and solidified his status as a prominent figure in the tap dancing community.
10.
May 25th is 'National Tap Dance Day' in the United States. The date was selected for which famous tap dancer's birthday?
Correct Answer
C. Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson
Explanation
Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson is the correct answer because National Tap Dance Day in the United States is celebrated on May 25th, which is his birthday. Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson was a famous tap dancer known for his innovative footwork and contributions to the art form. He was a prominent figure in the tap dance community and his birthday is honored by designating it as National Tap Dance Day.