That's Dancing!

The Evolution of Dance: From Prehistory to Film

The Origins and Nature of Dance

• Dance is described as an ancient form of expression, predating spoken language, where humans moved to internal rhythms.

• It is characterized as a primal art that involves the entire body, emphasizing physicality and personal connection.

• Unlike other art forms, dance is fleeting and impermanent, making it challenging to capture its essence through static mediums like painting or sculpture.

Breakdancing: A Modern Craze

• Breakdancing emerged in the South Bronx about ten years prior to the discussion, combining elements of mime and acrobatics. It requires discipline and energy.

• This dance style reflects a cultural phenomenon among youth, particularly those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

The Impact of Motion Pictures on Dance

• The invention of the motion picture camera in the late 1800s revolutionized how dance was captured and shared with audiences. Early films featured energetic performances but lacked polished choreography.

• As film technology advanced, professional dancers began transitioning from stage performances to film roles, leading to a new era in cinematic dance representation.

Hollywood's Golden Age of Musicals

• By the 1920s, Hollywood capitalized on public interest in dance trends like ragtime and the Charleston through musical films that showcased these styles.

• Busby Berkeley emerged as a pivotal figure in this era; he transformed movie musicals by introducing innovative filming techniques that highlighted dancers' beauty and movement patterns rather than traditional choreography.

Busby Berkeley's Innovations

• Berkeley's approach involved using overhead shots and geometric formations to create visually stunning sequences that captivated audiences during his time at Warner Brothers. His work redefined how dance was presented on screen.

• Despite initial struggles with some productions not succeeding commercially (e.g., "Flying High"), his collaboration on "42nd Street" marked a significant turning point for musical films in terms of popularity and artistic vision. Ruby Keeler became a notable star from this success story.

Busby Berkeley's Cinematic Innovations

The Magic of Busby Berkeley

• Busby Berkeley showcased his creative prowess in "Gold Diggers of 1933," utilizing an engaging score by Al Dubin and Harry Warren, featuring innovative choreography with dancers illuminated by neon lights.

• By 1934, Berkeley's name became synonymous with cinematic excellence, rivaling the stars of the films he directed. A promotional trailer highlighted his upcoming musical film starring Joan Blondell and Ruby Keeler.

• The use of flying trapeze for overhead shots became a hallmark of Berkeley’s style, enhancing the visual appeal of his productions filled with beautiful chorus girls from various states.

Ambitions and Achievements

• When asked about topping previous successes, Berkeley expressed confidence in surpassing past achievements due to grand sets and dynamic choreography that brought movement to every aspect of the performance.

• His number "I Only Have Eyes for You" is noted as one of the most beautifully conceived sequences in film history, showcasing his ability to blend music and dance seamlessly.

Highlights from "Gold Diggers"

• The finale of "Dames" featured a stunning vocal performance by Dick Powell, exemplifying Berkeley's knack for creating memorable musical moments.

• In "Gold Diggers of 1935," Berkeley achieved what he considered his ultimate triumph with “A Lullaby of Broadway,” which included an iconic tap dance sequence celebrated for its fantasy elements.

The Evolution of Dance on Film

Influence on Future Generations

• While Busby Berkeley revolutionized musicals in the 30s, Sammy Davis Jr. emphasized that dancing is a learned art form passed down through generations.

• Davis highlighted the importance of mastering basic techniques like ballet pliés or tap steps before developing personal style and elegance in dance.

Fred Astaire's Impact

• Fred Astaire transformed how dance was filmed by advocating minimal editing and full-body shots to capture the essence and grace of performances effectively.

• Astaire’s collaboration with Ginger Rogers marked a significant moment in film history; their chemistry captivated audiences while redefining romantic expression through dance.

Iconic Dance Duos

Unlikely Partnerships

• Shirley Temple and Bill Bojangles Robinson formed an extraordinary duo despite their age difference; their performances were celebrated for their charm and uniqueness.

Legacy of Bill Bojangles Robinson

• Robinson was revered for his legendary control and balance in tap dancing, marking a shift away from less refined styles prevalent before him.

Eleanor Powell: A Standout Performer

Celebrated Talent

• Eleanor Powell emerged as one of the finest dancers during the 1930s musicals, known for her strength combined with gracefulness that set her apart from her contemporaries.

The Evolution of Dance in Film

The Impact of the Nicholas Brothers

• The Nicholas brothers, Fayard and Harold, were a groundbreaking dance duo in the 30s and 40s, elevating the flash act to new heights of elegance.

• Their performance in "Down Argentine Way" is highlighted as a classic demonstration of their extraordinary abilities.

Ray Bolger: A Multifaceted Performer

• Ray Bolger was a Broadway superstar known for his versatility as an actor, singer, dancer, and comedian; he gained fame from "The Wizard of Oz."

• A recently discovered dance number featuring Bolger showcases his talent just before the film's release.

The Artistry Behind Dance

• Bolger's character reflects on the desire to understand life's reasons through dance, emphasizing the emotional connection between movement and narrative.

• The importance of stage presence is discussed; a solo performer must dominate with technique and personality akin to Baryshnikov.

Impressionism and Ballet

• Edgar Degas captured ballet's essence through paintings that depicted dancers both on stage and in rehearsal settings.

• Degas was fascinated by ballet’s fairy-like illusion, which contrasts with public perceptions today regarding classical dance discipline.

Early Cinema's Relationship with Dance

• In early cinema, ballet was often trivialized; classical ballet was associated with royalty while dancers avoided film due to its jerky motion.

• Loie Fuller emerged as a revolutionary figure in dance films by utilizing electric light effects that captivated audiences.

Isadora Duncan's Influence

• Isadora Duncan rejected traditional ballet norms, advocating for free-form dancing that emphasized personal expression.

• Her barefoot performances added scandalous allure while igniting a new spirit in dance across Europe and America.

Anna Pavlova: Revitalizing Classical Ballet

• Anna Pavlova played a crucial role in revitalizing classical ballet through her passionate performances captured on film during her peak popularity.

Ballet Films' Evolution

• Despite sound films emerging, classical ballet rarely featured prominently; early musicals included it mainly for spectacle rather than substantive roles.

Vera Zorina: A New Era Begins

• Vera Zorina made her film debut at 21; she combined excellent dancing skills with acting prowess under George Balanchine’s choreography.

The Red Shoes: A Cinematic Milestone

• "The Red Shoes," starring Moira Shearer, is noted as the most popular ballet film ever made, telling the story of a ballerina cursed to dance forever after donning magical shoes.

The Evolution of Dance in Film

The Impact of "The Red Shoes" on Ballet and Cinema

• "The Red Shoes," filmed in 1948, became a cult classic, inspiring many young girls to pursue ballet, influenced by Moira Shearer's performance.

• Following the film's success, ballet stars began appearing more frequently in movies, showcasing their talents beyond traditional stages.

Notable Figures in Dance History

• Rudolf Nureyev made historic appearances with Dame Margot Fonteyn, blending classical ballet with modern dance styles.

• The narrative reflects on the largest audience for dance ever recorded and discusses the evolving nature of dance as an art form.

MGM's Golden Era of Musical Films

• Ray Bolger reminisces about his experiences at MGM after filming "The Wizard of Oz," highlighting the studio's creative environment during the 40s and 50s.

• MGM was home to numerous talented artists—musical directors, choreographers, and performers—making it a hub for cinematic musicals.

Iconic Dancers and Their Contributions

• The era featured versatile performers like Mickey Rooney, Judy Garland, Cyd Charisse, and Fred Astaire who defined musical cinema.

• Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly were pivotal figures whose unique styles set high standards for screen dancing that remain influential today.

Memorable Productions from MGM

• Fred Astaire reached new heights in his performances during this period; notable films include "Royal Wedding," which showcased elaborate production numbers.

• Gene Kelly is celebrated for his work on "Singing in the Rain," remembered for its iconic tap dance routines alongside Donald O'Connor.

Innovations in Dance Filmmaking

• "Invitation to the Dance" represents Gene Kelly's ambitious vision combining live action with animation to enhance storytelling through dance.

• This film stands out as a significant achievement in filmmaking that captures the joy and artistry of dance over nearly two years of production.

Celebrated Musicals Featuring Fred Astaire

• "The Bandwagon," directed by Vincente Minnelli and choreographed by Michael Kidd, is noted as one of Astaire’s finest films showcasing his exceptional talent.

• Early CinemaScope musicals like “It’s Always Fair Weather” highlight innovative choreography that utilized every aspect of film technology available at the time.

The Evolution of Dance in Film

The Significance of Broadway and Hollywood

• The introduction highlights the collaboration of renowned talents like Gene Kelly, Michael Kidd, and Dan Dailey in dance performances that shaped Hollywood.

• Liza Minnelli shares her childhood dream of performing on Broadway, emphasizing its importance as a launching pad for dancers' careers.

• Broadway has been a pivotal source for Hollywood musicals, with many iconic dance routines originating from this stage before being adapted for film.

• The 1942 film "Yankee Doodle Dandy" showcases James Cagney's legendary performance, blending biography with innovative choreography by Johnny Boyle.

• "Kiss Me Kate," directed by George Sidney, features impressive choreography by Hermes Pan and includes notable dancers like Ann Miller.

Milestones in Musical Film History

• "Oklahoma!" is recognized as a Broadway milestone due to Agnes DeMille's groundbreaking integration of dance into storytelling.

• Bob Fosse's direction in "Sweet Charity" exemplifies how music can enhance dance performances, featuring stars like Paula Kelly and Chita Rivera.

• Cole Porter's "Silk Stockings" showcases Cyd Charisse’s exceptional talent through imaginative choreography directed by Rouben Mamoulian.

Iconic Dance Films and Their Impact

• "West Side Story," co-directed by Robert Wise and Jerome Robbins, is celebrated for its dramatic unity between music, song, dialogue, and dance—showcasing Robbins' extraordinary talent.

• The evolution of dance on film marks its 100th anniversary; the relationship between changing music styles and evolving dance forms is emphasized.

• The disco era significantly influenced movie dancing; John Travolta's performance in "Saturday Night Fever" highlighted this cultural shift with Bee Gees’ music at the forefront.

• Jennifer Beals starred in "Flashdance," which tells the story of a bar dancer aspiring to be a ballerina; it was notable for its successful blend of narrative and dynamic dancing.

Michael Jackson's Impact on Music and Dance

The Legacy of Michael Jackson

• Michael Jackson is recognized as a leading figure in music and dance, with his influence expected to persist for years to come.

• His performances are characterized by dynamic dancing, which has garnered significant applause from audiences.

• The atmosphere during his performances is electrifying, marked by enthusiastic audience reactions such as applause.