Usually, covers of Cups (When I’m Gone) lean on singing, clapping, and the distinctive cup percussion—think Anna Kendrick channeling the movie moment in Pitch Perfect. Yet a new video arrives with a different spin and it’s capturing attention nationwide. A troupe of remarkably skilled tap dancers interprets the viral tune with a bright, playful energy that feels fresh and irresistibly watchable.
The routine is choreographed by Christopher Rice, a notable presence on Broadway and a member of the cast in The Book of Mormon. The video also features several other Broadway performers, bringing a stage-ready confidence to every step and click of the taps.
Tap dancing is sometimes dismissed as outdated, but this performance shatters that stereotype. The dancers execute perfectly synchronized footwork to Kendrick’s catchy melody, turning the percussive taps into a modern groove that resonates with today’s audiences.
Since its YouTube debut, the clip has drawn well over a million views and has sparked coverage from major outlets, including the Huffington Post, Mashable, and msnNOW, acknowledging its infectious tempo and showmanship (cited by HuffPost, Mashable, and msnNOW).
PITCH PERFECT 2 arrived in theaters in 2015, continuing the film’s lighthearted musical momentum. In the meantime, audiences were encouraged to look for more bold Cups covers that blend tapping with pop songs, proving that a simple melody can become a dynamic, performance-driven experience.
The video demonstrates how a tap-driven reinterpretation can breathe new life into a familiar tune, inviting fans of all backgrounds to appreciate the artistry behind precise rhythm and timing. It’s a reminder that collaboration between music and dance can create something that feels both nostalgic and contemporary at once, sparking conversation about how dance can elevate even well-known songs.
(Image credit: YouTube)