Stepping

Stepping is a percussive performance tradition of Black Greek-letter organizations, in which the body is the instrument: synchronized stomps, claps, spoken word, and chants build complex, hard-hitting routines. With antecedents in African dance, military drill, and ring shouts, it became a competitive showcase form across the 20th century. Each organization performs signature steps and calls tied to its identity, presented at step shows and probates.