Spotlight on Shuffles: Variations of a Classic Tap Step

At TapUK 2025, Susan Harvey delighted dancers with her brilliant workshop, A Smörgåsbord of Shuffles. This energetic and inspiring session was a true celebration of the tap step we all know so well: the shuffle. Over the course of the class, she guided us through multiple variations, proving just how versatile and fun this step can be.

What is a Shuffle?

A shuffle is one of the most fundamental tap steps. It creates two crisp sounds, a forward tap and a backward tap, made with the ball of the foot. Often one of the first steps a tapper learns, the shuffle can be performed in countless directions and rhythms, making it both simple and endlessly adaptable.

The shuffle’s history stretches back to the 19th century, when African and Irish dance traditions merged in America. Over time, it became a core part of vaudeville performances, chorus lines and solo acts, celebrated for its clarity and rhythmic drive. From then to now, the shuffle has remained one of tap’s most recognisable and essential building blocks.

A Smörgåsbord of Shuffles

Here’s the full menu of shuffle variations Susan explored in her workshop:

Basic Shuffle (&1): A forward and back tap made with the ball of the foot.

Double Shuffle (&1&a): Two even shuffles in sequence.

3 Beat Shuffle (&a1): Between the forward and backward tap, add a heel catch with the same foot. 

All of these can be done in the following directions:

• Front: In front of the body with the entire front plate.

• Side: To the side of the body using the inner edge of the tap plate.

• Back Open: Diagonally backwards using the inner edge of the tap plate.

• Back Crossed: Behind and to the outside of the supporting foot with the outer edge of the tap plate. The back crossed position needs to be more open with a 3 beat shuffle to fit the third sound in.

We also looked at shuffles that are traditionally performed only one way:

Criss Cross Shuffle (&1): Only performable to the front. The forward and back tap swings from the knee and crosses in front of the supporting leg, creating a stylish V-shape.

Shuffle Off to Buffalo (&1&a2): A vaudeville-era classic, often performed by chorus lines exiting the stage. Start with a tap spring on the right, foot facing right and body facing front. Shuffle the left foot facing left (body still front), step onto the left behind the right, and repeat. Performed in a line, this creates a wonderfully theatrical exit!

If you count all the variations we explored, we ended up with 14 different shuffles - and there are even more you could add! For example, you can also try a Front Crossed Shuffle. You can do this by performing a shuffle in front and to the outside of the supporting foot with the outer edge of the tap plate. Why not give it a go and let us know how you get on?

Why the Shuffle is a Classic Tap Step

The beauty of the shuffle lies in its versatility. By shifting direction, adding extra beats, or combining it with other tap steps, the shuffle transforms from a simple drill into a showstopping rhythm. Susan’s Smörgåsbord of Shuffles reminded us all that even the most fundamental tap step is an endless playground for creativity and musicality.

A Final Note Before We Shuffle Off

From the Basic Shuffle to the theatrical Shuffle Off to Buffalo, Susan’s Smörgåsbord of Shuffles workshop was packed with rhythm, variety and inspiration. With many variations explored, it left us with happy feet, fresh ideas and a renewed love for one of tap’s most timeless and versatile steps.

And this was just one of the 36 incredible workshops at TapUK 2025! Want to see what’s in store for next year? Head over to the TapUK 2026 Workshops page and explore the exciting line-up of classes waiting for you.