Tapping out 22 years of talent

Tap Gallery makes a great addition to the canon of amazing Australian underdog stories. Opening in 1989, Tap Gallery claimed a spot in a far grungier Darlinghurst than the one we see today. Having successfully run for 22 years purely on the steam of volunteers, the gallery threw an anniversary party last Saturday to celebrate all their hard work and achievements.

The party was a resounding success. Lesley Dimmock, the Manager of Tap Gallery, was overwhelmed, “I was really surprised at how many came last night. I was really happy to see such a big crowd from all ages. We’re not ageist here.”
Keeping in theme with Tap’s emphasis on local and emerging artists, a metaphorical and literal banquet was provided for guests to feast on. Dubbed ‘Italian Chef Supreme,’ artist Graziella Alaimo fed the throngs with helpings of spaghetti.
The entertainment only heightened the spectacle. Cabaret troupe Three of a Kind wowed with their rollicking ‘Red Hot Retro’ show, while Mia Mortal, Paul, Dave and Jimmy Vargas dazzled the crowd with a blend of burlesque and improv.

The importance of the milestone wasn’t lost on the organisers. “We’re all volunteers because our biggest expense is rent. The only way to do it is to run 100 per cent on volunteers.”

Lesley was quick to point out volunteers don’t just run the place, they also produce and perform in the gallery. Tap Gallery as a venue is open to and popular with amateur and emerging artists.

“They find us, we’re open every day, we keep the doors open and they keep coming. Both COFA and National Arts School students keep booking,” Lesley said.

Walk into Tap Gallery any time to see the culmination of more than two decades of hard work, or look at the plethora of upcoming shows at www.tapgallery.org.au

By Thomas Hellier