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March is recognized as Black History Month, a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black individuals across all fields. In the world of dance, many Black performers have shaped the art form, yet their work has often been overlooked or forgotten. Here are just a few influential Black dancers whose impact continues to inspire generations.
Bill “Bojangles” Robinson
Due to his amazing ability to be light on his feet and also sharp in his percussive taps, Robinson is known as the father of tap dance and was spotted in a series of Hollywood roles, starring next to the popular child star Shirly Temple. Over the course of his career he starred in 14 movies and 6 Broadway shows. Robinson was also the first black solo performer to star on white vaudeville circuits. Here he was the headliner for four decades.
Katherine Dunham:
Dunham was a pioneering African American dancer who blended cultural dance with ballet. Born in Illinois, she trained in Chicago and studied Caribbean dance cultures in the 1930s, developing a revolutionary new style. From the 1940s to the 1960s, her dance company toured worldwide, and she founded a school in New York to teach her technique.
Misty Copeland
Misty Copeland is a groundbreaking African American ballerina known for breaking barriers in classical ballet. She joined the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) in 2000 and made history in 2015 as the first Black woman to be promoted to principal dancer in the company's 75-year history. Despite starting ballet at 13—much later than most professionals—her talent and perseverance led her to success. Copeland is influential for challenging racial and body stereotypes in ballet, inspiring young dancers of color. She has authored books, advocated for diversity in dance, and used her platform to promote inclusion in the arts.
The Nicholas Brothers (Fayard and Harold )
The Nicholas Brothers, Fayard and Harold, were born into a musical family—both parents were professional musicians who performed in Black vaudeville shows. Fayard taught himself to dance by watching iconic Black entertainers and later trained his younger siblings. Their most iconic performance was in Stormy Weather (1943), where they executed an electrifying tap routine featuring jumps, splits, and intricate footwork. The Nicholas Brothers rose to prominence with their unique style, earning widespread respect and influencing generations of tap dancers.
These dancers broke barriers, redefined their art forms, and left a lasting legacy in the world of dance. From tap to ballet and modern dance, their contributions continue to inspire new generations of performers. At STU Arts Dance we believe that dance is for everyone and everyone should get the chance to dance. Click here to learn more on our website and book your first class no matter what experience you have!
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