Kate Draper, one of Paul Draper’s three daughters, will discuss her father's career and history. Through a combination of archival footage and recent interviews, Ms.Draper will walk us through key moments in his unique career. Paul Draper, known to many as “The Aristocrat of Tap," combined intricately precise footwork with the grace of balletic moves. Tapping to classical and jazz music, his uniquely elegant and intellectual style transformed the craft into an unparalleled dance form. Starting dance at the late age of 17, Draper honed his footwork and his leaps and soon became an internationally celebrated club headliner at venues like the Persian Room, the Rainbow Room, Carnegie Hall, and City Center. In 1936, Draper paired up with Ruby Keeler in the Hollywood movie, "Colleen.” In the 1940s he formed a partnership with harmonica player, Larry Adler. In 1950, both men’s careers were significantly damaged by the Blacklist. From 67-78, Draper was a professor at Carnegie-Mellon University and continued teaching in Woodstock NY, until his death in ’96.
New York City, NY; NYC