A Community Tap Extravaganza steps out on April 29

MIDDLETOWN >> Vinnie’s Jump and Jive, 424 Main St., Middletown, will hold A Community Tap Extravaganza from 2:30 to 9:30 p.m. April 29.

A gathering of tap performers and enthusiasts, this event is a celebration of the first true American dance form. Performances will be accompanied by the musical stylings of local talent, reaching back to the 1920s to the present day. The evolution of this expressive and rhythm-filled dance style will be explored and explained.

An on-going explanation of the history of tap technique and style will be interwoven with the day’s events. Meanwhile, FUN will be the tempo that drives the day.

Artistic Director Kate Cavenagh said, “We want people to come and try it because it’s fun, it keeps you healthy and strong, and it brings us together under one common thread- rhythm. No matter where you are from or what language you speak, we all understand rhythm because it is ingrained deep in us ... just listen to your own heartbeat.”

Cavenagh has been a tap dancer for more than 30 years. She began her teaching career at age 15, assisting classes at Jackie Lynn School of Dance and choreographing musicals for Haddam-Killingworth High and Middle schools. She holds a BA in Dance/Theater Education from Emerson College and has dedicated her life to studying tap and its history. It has been her lifelong dream to start a company that promotes education, creative expression, and performance opportunities for people of all ages and abilities and who share the same interest in passing along the traditions of Tap. She teaches at several studios in the Middletown area and has been coaching the UConn Tap Team since 2011.

For information, call 860347-6971 xt 3777 or email Vinniestapextravaganza@gmail.com.