Taps at Yale is a Yale University student organization founded in 1995 (the third-oldest dance organization on campus!) committed to celebrating and performing tap dance. Our group members work to continue the American tradition of tap, which is rooted in Black life and culture. We are an energetic, passionate, enthusiastic, and joyful group of dancers. Members range from first-years to grad students—any Yale University student is invited to audition and join.
At the end of each semester, Taps puts on a student-choreographed performance to showcase the pieces that have been created over the semester. Anyone can be a choreographer! Whether it’s your first time choreographing or you’re a seasoned professional, all are welcome to pitch a dance at the beginning of the semester, and you can co-choreograph with a friend. We have also collaborated with the Yale Undergraduate Jazz Collective and added historical choreography to our repertoire. Additionally, both the ensemble and individual members have been selected to perform at the Bulldog Days Showcase, donor events with President Salovey, residential college fellows’ dinners, at the Schwarzman Center’s grand opening, and many members have been honored with both residential college and university-wide awards for contributions to the arts.
Taps members also have the opportunity to learn some of the more technical aspects of theater. Members can learn how to light dances, select costumes, and take part in the set-up and strike of the theater before and after every show. Lastly, Taps is delighted to have received a grant for the purchase of a beautiful Gerstung wooden floor for use in performances across campus.