A Conversation Between Tap and Trumpet

Alabama Repertory Dance Theatre Fall Concert, 2013, Photo by Porfirio Solorzano

A Conversation Between Tap and Trumpet is an interactive performance between Rob and Stacy Alley. The purpose of this research is to expand the boundaries of uncharted territory between live jazz trumpet and tap dance by exploring improvisation as a driving force in a creative exchange and how this relationship between the two informs both artists’ interpretation of the music. As dance and music are both catalysts for self-expression, with the dancer and musician physically together onstage, aware of each other’s presence and artistic input, the experience for both artists and audience is greater than the sum of its parts. In blending both disciplines into a unique production, this study will explore how movement is informed by the transformation of traditional jazz melody through the trumpeter’s improvisations and conversely, how the tap dancer can serve as drummer, giving rise to new ideas for improvisation. A Conversation has been performed for the New Light Theatre Project's Dark Room Series in NYC, the Alabama Repertory Dance Theatre Fall Concert, a University of Alabama Gymnastics Meet, and the International Choreographers' Showcase at both the Festival Internacional de Teatro y Danza (FINTDAZ) in Chile and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland. Funding for these opportunities were made possible by the University of Alabama's College of Arts and Sciences, College Academy of Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity, Capstone International, Department of Theatre and Dance, and a personal Kickstarter campaign.