Honouring Joey Hollingsworth: In Tap Dance and conversation

Accès

À propos

We are excited to announce an event honouring renowned Canadian tap dancer and performer Joey Hollingsworth.

The event will commence at the Downtown Barrie Public Library from 12:30 to 2:00 PM. It will feature a discussion with Mr. Hollingsworth, led by public historian Zahra McDoom, titled “Tap in the Era of Big Bands and Civil Rights: The Joey Hollingsworth Story.” Attendees will engage in a spirited conversation, exploring the evolution of tap dance through historical contexts such as garden parties, minstrel shows, and medicine shows. 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 Danse Hall of Fame this year. Gather around for stories of Canadian Black history, taps and tails.

Following the discussion, attendees are invited to CW Coop’s for a pay-what-you-can jam session from 3:00 to 5:00 PM, open to both musicians and tap dancers. The house band will feature pianist Scott Boyer, bassist Kene Hyatt, and drummer Joe Adamick. This session aims to provide a collaborative space where musicians and tap dancers can come together and celebrate the art form, inspired by Joey’s experiences.

Both events are open to all ages and skill levels, fostering an inclusive environment for the entire Barrie community and surrounding areas.

This activity is made possible through the efforts of Zahra McDoom, who is researching and documenting Joey’s extensive career to ensure he receives the recognition he deserves. We also extend our gratitude to the Downtown Barrie Public Library and CW Coop’s for their support, and acknowledge the City of Barrie for providing funding for Culture Days 2024.

Organisateur

Brianna Maltais & Tiffany Kriter

Brianna Maltais, a tap dancer, student, educator, and collaborator based in Barrie, Ontario, and Tiffany Kriter, a tap dancer, educator, company director, and choreographer from London, Ontario, are both passionate about promoting the history of tap dance, expanding its audiences, and creating community. They are excited to have been selected for Barrie Culture Days to host an event that will unite their tap dance community to celebrate the prominent career of Joey Hollingsworth.