Both innovators in filming dance, particularly in Hollywood musicals of the 1940’s, Fred Astaire (1899-1997) and Gene Kelly (1912-1996) left a lasting legacy in the dance and film worlds as versatile dancers, singers, choreographers, and actors.

This year marks Gene Kelly’s centenary, the 100th anniversary of his birth, and the 60th anniversary of his classic film “Singing in the Rain.”  In July, the Film Society of Lincoln Center presented 23 films recognizing Kelly as a choreographer and film director, “Invitation to the Dance: Gene Kelly @ 100.” 

He Made a Splash, and Dance History -- New York Times

Gene Kelly’s Widow Doesn’t Dance Away from His Secrets -- Wall Street Journal

Gene Kelly said that “the history of dance on film begins with Astaire.” A recent book, The Astaires, by Kathleen Riley, describes the relationship between Fred Astaire and his sister Adele, his first partner.  In a NY Times review of the book, Tori Bentley writes, “it becomes clear that it was behind and beside, but never in front of, Adele that Fred learned not only how to dance, but how to present a woman, honor her and make her glow.”

Two-Step, by Tori Bentley, NY Times

Fortunately, audiences can still enjoy Kelly or Astaire films today.  Some highlights on YouTube:

- “The Babbitt and the Bromide,” from Ziegfield Follies, Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly together

- Swing Time, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers

- Gene Kelly tap dancing on roller skates

- Gene Kelly and Jerry in Anchors Away, 1944

- Singing in the Rain with Gene Kelly, Cyd Charisse