Tappin’ In 2025, the hugely impactful mass participation project, will culminate in a red-carpet film premiere at Lakeside Arts, Nottingham, on Saturday 20 September, celebrating the tap adventure of 77 participants in a special screening that captures the energy, rhythm and creativity of the project. Inspire Youth Arts, based in Mansfield, are one of eight groups that have taken part and will feature in the film.
Since April, young dancers and musicians from Inspire Youth Arts have been working with Tappin’ In artists at The Old Library in Mansfield, building skills in tap dancing, body percussion and rhythm through regular weekly sessions. Their journey included a live performance at Mansfield Carnival on Saturday 21 June, where they showcased their progress to an audience of more than 500 people.
The dance film, created by filmmaker Rachel Bunce and her team of videographers, brings together highlights from the 12-week programme of activity across the East Midlands. It captures rehearsal sessions, public performances and behind-the-scenes moments, weaving together stories from participants to show the joy and accessibility of tap dancing for people of all ages and abilities.
Celebrating more than 150 hours of tap dancing in towns, cities, community halls and village greens, and drawing on 96 hours of conversations and stories, the film reflects the project’s mission to prove that dance is for everyone.
Stephanie Ridings, Tappin’ In Founder and Artistic Director, said:
“Tap dancing is the perfect artform for those who think they can’t dance or that the arts are not for them. Over the last 12 weeks we’ve seen skills and confidence flourish and we hope to share just some of that joy in our special Tappin’ In dance film.”
Lou Lomas, Tappin’ In Creative Producer, added:
“The Tappin’ In dance film is a moment to celebrate everyone’s journey as part of this year’s project and to hear from participants and partners about their plans to continue their dance adventures in their local spaces. We are expecting to see the countless smiles and friendships develop in the film as we reflect on Tappin’ In 2025 with all those who’ve taken part.”
Tappin’ In 2025 brought together partners from across the arts, community, health and wellbeing sectors to co-create a bespoke experience made by and for the communities involved. Participants came from Alford, Biddulph, Boston, Eckington, Mansfield, Nottingham, Ollerton and the wider Staffordshire Moorlands.
The red-carpet premiere is exclusively for Tappin’ In participants and partners, with the film to be made available online later in the year.
Tappin’ In 2025 is produced by Tappin’ In Ltd. Partners include Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Inspire Culture, Live & Local, Blackfriars Arts Centre and Outside Arts, with support from FABRIC and Arts Council England.
Find out more at www.tappinin.com
Learn more about Inspire Youth Arts at www.inspireculture.org.uk/IYA
Posted on 17 September 2025
