Our Repertoire

American Footwork's repertoire consists of suites representing the the American cultural and historical experience. From the pounding rhythms of the Native Americans, to early European diaspora importations, to the great Western expansion movements of the 19th century, to Civil War and industrialization, 20th century World Wars and the Modern Era, we strive to represent an interesting and historically cogent sampling of some of our country's many cultural facets.  

AMERICAN CLOGGING: Clogging originated in the Smoky Mountains of the American South

and was a mixture of Western European dance patterns and footwork, Native American step dancing and African rhythms. This footwork was performed first as an individual expression and later as part of the square dance tradition, evolving gradually to incorporate aspects of all dance forms including Irish step, tap, French Canadian step, hip hop, Broadway jazz, and even cheer leading. We do several routines which represent clogging's various incarnations: a Traditions Suite displaying the gradual evolution of clogging from flat footin' to toe stands; precision (group/partnering) dances; a'capella numbers showcasing the complicated, precise sounds made by our clogging taps; freestyle events where individual dancers playfully compete for top applause; character numbers featuring themes or eras from our history; and high energy show stoppers with the top new competitive steps. 





FRONTIER DANCES: These dances reflect the history of westward expansion of the 1800's as pioneers braved the dangerous and difficult routes to California and the Rocky Mountains to seek their fortunes or escape religious persecution. Often on these trying trails the pioneers would circle their wagons and cheer each other through music and dance. Again drawing from their primarily European diaspora roots, these dances feature quadrilles, contras, polkas, and eventually the waltz, flavored by our own joyous and enthusiastic national character.



AMERICAN FAD DANCES: Americans were on the cutting edge of most of the 20th century dance crazes. Tap was born here, as was modern dance, the cake walk, the Charleston, swing, and hip hop. 

HAWAIIAN DANCE: Hawaii is the newest of the 50 United States, gaining statehood in 1959. Hula as it evolved under Western influence, in the 19th and 20th centuries, is accompanied by song and Western-influenced musical instruments such as the guitar, the ukelele, and the double bass. We proudly honor Hawaii's contribution to our cultural richness with a lovely traditional hula suite.

NATIVE AMERICAN DANCE: the relationship between the United States and its indigenous peoples has not always been harmonious, but these tribes are an important part of our cultural heritage.