All That Tap festival to feature music from Carolbeth True Trio

Jazz music and tap dancing have been connected throughout the history of both art forms. Of course, jazz's swing and syncopation have made it the preferred musical accompaniment for many a hoofer, but the art of tap dancing also has fascinated many jazz musicians, especially drummers such as Buddy Rich (who started in show business as a child tap dancer), Max Roach and Louis Bellson.

Given that connection, it makes perfect sense that St. Louis tap dance guru Robert L. Reed has selected the Carolbeth True Trio to provide the music for All That Tap XVI, the tap festival that will be held this year at 7 p.m. Saturday, July 28, at the Touhill Performing Arts Center

Featured tap dancers at the event will include Avi Miller and Ofer Ben, Rod Ferrone, Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards, Robert Reed III, Bril Barrett, Karen Callaway Williams, Shelley Oliver, Wizdom & Dee Mac, Logan Miller and Melba Huber. Special guests will include tap legends Prince Spencer (of the Four Step Brothers), Jimmy Slyde, Harold Cromer and special honoree Marion Coles.

(To learn a bit more about the connection between jazz music and tap dancing, check out these three articles.)