Tap in the Era of Big Bands and Civil Rights
The Joey Hollingsworth Story
Saturday, October 05
12:30pm - 2:00pm
Downtown Branch
Gathering PlaceJoin us for a spirited conversation, led by public historian Zahra McDoom, featuring renowned Canadian tap dancer and performer Joey Hollingsworth.
This event will explore the evolution of tap dance through historical contexts such as garden parties, minstrel shows, and medicine shows.
About Joey Hollingsworth:
Mr Hollingsworth, who absorbed the rhythms of the Afro-diasporic community and witnessed icons like Bill BoJangles Robinson and Nat King Cole in his hometown of London, Ontario, has made significant contributions to the performing arts.
He broke racial barriers as one of the first Black performers on CBC television, performed on The Ed Sullivan Show in the 1960’s, participated in benefit concerts for Martin Luther King Jr. alongside Oscar Peterson and Harry Belafonte, and shared these experiences as the Dancing Salesman on Mister Rogers’ Neighbourhood.
In recognition of his contributions, Joey received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Ontario Black History Society in 2018 and will be inducted into the Dance Collection Dance Hall of Fame this year.
AGE GROUP: | Teens | Seniors | School-Aged Kids | Families | Adults |
EVENT TYPE: | Culture & Arts |
TAGS: | Culture Days |
Downtown Branch
Our Downtown Branch is centrally located in the Downtown core at the corner of Worsley and Owen Streets. The building and facilities are fully accessible. Enjoy a beverage or a small snack from our Café located inside the lobby, use our complimentary wifi, experiment with technology and maker tools, or soak up the sun on our Rooftop Reading Garden.