History of Step Dance
History of Step Dance
1. Where did stepping begin? How far can it be traced back?
Stepping began during the early part of African American experience. Its roots may be from Africa because it can be traced back to slavery times.
2. How was step dance used during slavery?
Step dance was used as a means of communication during slavery times. Because slaves were often unable to communicate in their native languages, they incorporated stepping into their cultures and were able to communicated important messages and news regarding the Underground Railroad.
3. What role did step dance play during World War II?
During WWII stepping was a form of entertainment and also served to uplift the soldiers.
4. Explain the transition of step dance from earlier times until now.
Step dance has since become a true form of entertainment. The steps have become more complicated and usually incorporate rhythms of hip hop. It is now a greater part of the dance culture.
5. What role does step dance play on the campus of many historically black colleges?
The “Divine Nine” often perform steps during probates when the pledges cross. They also host step show competitions. Many of the organizations have signature steps.
6. Step dancing is supported by which national council? What/Who makes up this council?
It is supported by The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) which is made up of nine historically black Greek organizations. (Alpha Phi Alpha, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, Delta Sigma Theta, Phi Beta Sigma, Zeta Phi Beta, Sigma Gamma Rho, and Iota Phi Theta)
7. What other types of dance are related to step dancing?
-Tap dance
-Hip Hop
-Irish Step Dance (Riverdance)
-Clogging
-Break dance
-March
-African and Caribbean dance
8. Name at least five TV shows or movies that have a routine of step dancing. Indicate the link where two of these can be viewed on the Internet.
1. Stomp the Yard
2. Drumline
3. The Fresh Prince
1. Where did stepping begin? How far can it be traced back?
Stepping began during the early part of African American experience. Its roots may be from Africa because it can be traced back to slavery times.
2. How was step dance used during slavery?
Step dance was used as a means of communication during slavery times. Because slaves were often unable to communicate in their native languages, they incorporated stepping into their cultures and were able to communicated important messages and news regarding the Underground Railroad.
3. What role did step dance play during World War II?
During WWII stepping was a form of entertainment and also served to uplift the soldiers.
4. Explain the transition of step dance from earlier times until now.
Step dance has since become a true form of entertainment. The steps have become more complicated and usually incorporate rhythms of hip hop. It is now a greater part of the dance culture.
5. What role does step dance play on the campus of many historically black colleges?
The “Divine Nine” often perform steps during probates when the pledges cross. They also host step show competitions. Many of the organizations have signature steps.
6. Step dancing is supported by which national council? What/Who makes up this council?
It is supported by The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) which is made up of nine historically black Greek organizations. (Alpha Phi Alpha, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, Delta Sigma Theta, Phi Beta Sigma, Zeta Phi Beta, Sigma Gamma Rho, and Iota Phi Theta)
7. What other types of dance are related to step dancing?
-Tap dance
-Hip Hop
-Irish Step Dance (Riverdance)
-Clogging
-Break dance
-March
-African and Caribbean dance
8. Name at least five TV shows or movies that have a routine of step dancing. Indicate the link where two of these can be viewed on the Internet.
1. Stomp the Yard
2. Drumline
3. The Fresh Prince