8th Annual International Tap Day Celebration
8th Annual Tap Day Celebration May 15–17, 2026 | Calgary, Alberta
Tri-Tone Productions is excited to invite dancers, musicians, and audiences to the 8th Annual International Tap Day Celebration in Calgary, AB. Presented in partnership with Decidedly Jazz Danceworks, this three-day event brings together education, performance, and community exchange, honouring the rich legacy of tap legend Bill “Bojangles” Robinson.
Curated by Artistic Director Tasha Lawson, the weekend includes master classes, a film screening, panel discussion, in-studio feedback showcase, and two live jazz and tap performances at The Attic Jazz Club.
2026 Faculty: Tasha Lawson, Jessie Sawyers, Kristina Linden, Laura Donaldson, Kaja Irwin
Workshops & Master Classes – Friday, May 15 & Saturday, May 16 | DJD Dance Centre
Classes welcome rhythmic artists at multiple levels, with focused technical training and artistic exploration. Youth and adult classes offered!
Film Screening: By Word of Foot – Saturday, May 16 | 10:00–11:15 AM
The documentary examines the tap festivals of the 1980s that contributed to the form’s resurgence, featuring archival footage and interviews documenting a pivotal period in tap history. Special Zoom appearance by Jane Goldberg (NYC)
Community Showcase – Saturday, May 16 | 7:00–9:00 PM
Dancers present solos, duets, and group works in a performance and feedback setting. The showcase features performances by the Tri-Tone Rhythm Ensemble, community submissions, and an excerpt of a new work by Laura Donaldson.
The Attic Sessions: A Live Jazz & Tap Experience – Sunday, May 17 | 12:00 PM & 3:00 PM
The Tri-Tone Rhythm Ensemble joins a live jazz quartet for an immersive listening-room performance inspired by the intimacy of classic jazz clubs. Group works rooted in swing, groove, and live musical exchange share the stage with solo and duet “improvography” — blending structure with spontaneity. Audiences experience the music up close, with food and drinks available, in an atmosphere that celebrates collaboration and conversation between dancers and musicians. Musicians: Kodi Hutchinson (bass), Jon Day (piano), Tyler Hornby (drums), Kyla Lomocso (vocals).
International Tap Day 2026 continues to support the growth of rhythm tap in Calgary through education, creation, and community engagement while acknowledging the African American roots of the form.
Details and registration: www.tashalawson.com/tapday
