The Singing, Dancing Documentaries of George T. Nierenberg
3 Episodes
An infectious sense of joy lights up the documentaries of George T. Nierenberg, whose films are essential records of African American cultural achievement. With his touchstone documentary NO MAPS ON MY TAPS and its follow-up ABOUT TAP, Nierenberg helped to revitalize interest in the art of tap dancing by spotlighting legendary dancers like Howard “Sandman” Sims, Bunny Briggs, and Chuck Green. In SAY AMEN, SOMEBODY, the filmmaker tells the story of gospel music with similar passion, capturing soul-shaking performances from greats such as Thomas A. Dorsey, known as the Father of Gospel Music, and Willie Mae Ford Smith.
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59:06Episode 1No Maps on My Taps
Episode 1
Directed by George T. Nierenberg • 1979 • United States
Upon its release 1979—when tap dancing was largely seen as a relic of the past—this captivating documentary instantly revived interest in a uniquely American art form. Through a celebration of three remarkable dancers—Bunny Briggs, Chuck Gr...
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1:41:17Episode 2Say Amen, Somebody
Episode 2
Directed by George T. Nierenberg • 1982 • United States
One of the most acclaimed music documentaries of all time is a joyous, funny, deeply emotional ode to gospel music and African American culture. Featuring the father of gospel, Thomas A. Dorsey; its matron, Willie Mae Ford Smith; and earth-...
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About Tap
Episode 3
Directed by George T. Nierenberg • 1985 • United States
George T. Nierenberg’s brilliant and blissful followup to NO MAPS ON MY TAPS is introduced by legendary dancer Gregory Hines, who shares his childhood memories of watching and imitating the tap-dance greats at the Apollo Theater. ABOUT TAP ...
