Welcome to Tappers!
Tappers is all about giving adults more opportunities to tap dance. Whether you’re building confidence or dancing for the joy of it, our workshop days and weekends are designed to be friendly, enjoyable and easy to step into.
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You’ll learn from experienced guest teachers, meet like-minded dancers and leave feeling glad you came.
Our Mission
To keep tap welcoming, enjoyable and open to any adult who loves it. We focus on good teaching, good people and creating events that are worth putting in the diary.
Our Community
National Events:
From workshops to social gatherings and performances, we organise events across the country to bring tap enthusiasts together.
Inclusive Group:
Join a network of amateur and professional tap dancers who support and inspire one another.
Learning Resources:
Access tutorials, tips, and tools to help you perfect your technique and grow as a dancer.
Our Story
As news of the association spread, many teachers and performers joined, and so it was decided to drop the 'Amateur', and in 2005 it was relaunched as Associated Tap Dancers (ATD).
After a fabulous 30 years of running the association, Penny made the tough decision to step back and handed over the reins to Florence Sharma.
The community was originally founded by Penny Smith in 1994 under the name of Amateur Tap Dancers. Penny was at what was known as ‘Ballroom Blitz’ at London’s Royal Festival Hall, when she first circulated some flyers.
“Would anyone like a weekend of tap?” she asked, and to her surprise, the positive replies came pouring in.
Penny had some contacts at Pontins and thought they might be interested in hosting a few dancers, but soon realised this was going to be bigger. She needed a mailing list, and more – maybe an association. And so, Amateur Tap Dancers was born.
Together with her partner, Peter, and some advice from Pontins, they organised the very first TapUK Festival.
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Florence has been part of the community since a very young age, as her mother taught at that very first Festival in Pontins where it all started!
As we continue to grow and evolve, and to mark the new chapter of this wonderful community, we rebranded as Tappers in January 2025.
This new chapter reflects our commitment to uniting tap enthusiasts across the country and embracing a fresh, dynamic identity while honouring our rich history and the incredible community that Penny built.
Meet the Team
Florence Sharma
General enquiries and events
Sam Hailey
Events and magazine editor
Dolores Clark
Membership manager
Susan Harvey
Content writer
Behind Tappers is a dedicated management team of dancers, teachers and event organisers who live and breathe tap. Their expertise and passion drive every event, ensuring that every Tappers experience is one to remember.
Ready to get started?
Explore our Events and Blog to find your next tap adventure!
Find your next event or workshop and join us for a day of rhythm and fun. See Upcoming Events
Stay up to date with the latest news, events, and announcements.