TAPATAPA
In Nairobi, DFW supports Tapatapa, a local initiative that brings tap dance to children from underprivileged neighborhoods. The program offers them not only artistic education, but also confidence, rhythm, discipline, and a sense of joy and belonging.
DFW finances the studio where the classes take place, ensuring that the children have a safe, stable and professional learning environment.
As the next step in this collaboration, we are developing a project to travel to Nairobi with Steven McRae, Principal Dancer of the Royal Ballet — who began his artistic journey as a tap dancer. His participation embodies the message at the heart of this project: talent can grow anywhere when the right opportunities exist.
Before this journey could take shape, one essential need had to be addressed: access to proper tap shoes. Together with supporters, partners and friends from the dance community, we collected dozens of pairs so that the children could fully experience the technique and musicality of tap.
Transporting the shoes to Nairobi proved far more complex than expected. Months of coordination with airlines, embassies and volunteers were necessary — a reminder that even simple actions can require determination, patience and collective goodwill. Thanks to this network of support, the shoes are now in the hands of Stacey Achieng and her team at Tapatapa, who will distribute them and integrate them into the upcoming classes.
This project stands as a testament to what solidarity, perseverance and art can achieve together.
And it is only the beginning.
We continue to welcome donations of tap shoes to allow even more children to discover the joy of creating rhythm and music with their bodies.
