Things are tapping on 42nd Street, and it's not just 42nd Street making all that noise. July 7-15, four-time Tony nominee Gregory Hines (Eubie, Comin' Uptown, Sophisticated Ladies and a winner for 1992's Jelly's Last Jam) is just one of the tap dance stars who will perform and teach at Tap City 2001, the New York City Tap Festival, at The Duke on 42nd Street.

The Tap City 2001 offerings include panel discussions, children's programs, films starring Ernie Smith, tap jam sessions, master classes with Hines and Buster Brown and lectures.

July 12, Hines will be honored with the Hoofer Award. Marda Kirn and The NY Committee will receive the Tap Preservation Award to celebrate National Tap Dance Day. Hines will perform at the event as will Brenda Bufalino, Savion Glover's mother and jazz vocalist Yvette Glover, O'D n' Tap, Silver Belles, Jimmy Slyde and the evening's host, Tony Waag.

Ticket prices vary per event (the July 12 gala is $150). For information, call (646) 230-9564. Tap City 2001 is on the web at http://www.nyctapfestival.com/.

— By Christine Ehren