Title: Tamangoh: The living guardian of tap dance and its African origins
Introduction :
Tap dance, this art of rhythmic dance, today finds its momentum in the world of jazz thanks to an exceptional man: Tamangoh. This internationally renowned dancer and choreographer has made it his mission to perpetuate tap dance while affirming its African origins through his show Kongo Square. Let’s discover together how he transmits this tradition to young black artists and how he promotes African cultural heritage in his work.
Tap Dance: an African-American story
For black populations living in the United States during slavery, tap dancing was a way to continue expressing themselves. Indeed, slaves were forbidden from playing drums, hence the emergence of this rhythmic dance where African ancestors were reproduced with their feet. Tap dancing has thus become a form of resistance and an affirmation of the black community’s right to speak.
Tamangoh and Kongo Square: a heritage to preserve
Tamangoh was invited to Loango for the 10th anniversary of the Soul Power Kongo festival, as part of the 60th anniversary of collaboration between Congo and the European Union. He led a workshop there aimed at transmitting to young black artists the historical value of this dance which connects them all. The Soul Power Kongo festival is organized on the Loango slave route, an area marked by millions of departures of captives. In this context, Tamangoh feels inspired to express his art and look back on the history of slavery.
Tamangoh: guardian of tap dance and artistic heir
Tamangoh’s mission is to perpetuate and enrich the tradition of tap dance while bringing its own artistic touch to this dynamic and timeless art. By highlighting the African origins of tap dance, it contributes to the recognition and promotion of Africa’s cultural heritage. His presence on stage is an invitation to revisit history and celebrate African artistic diversity.
Conclusion :
Tamangoh is a true ambassador of tap dance and its African origins. Thanks to his talent and his passion for this art, he perpetuates a tradition while reinterpreting it, thus allowing tap dance to continue to live and evolve in the world of jazz. His presence at the Soul Power Kongo festival in Loango is a tribute to the history of slaves and the fight for freedom.