Wayne Cilento

Today, I’m so excited to announce the 250th episode of Backstage Babble. The mission of the podcast has always been to document Broadway history, and I’m thrilled to welcome a man who has had a profound influence on Broadway history over several eras in his work as a dancer and a choreographer: Wayne Cilento. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his legendary career, including his reflections on the 50th anniversary of A CHORUS LINE, how Michael Bennett kept the show on track, discussing BIG DEAL with Bob Fosse, reinventing DANCIN’ for 2023 audiences, creating a movement style for WICKED, collaborating with Des McAnuff on TOMMY and HOW TO SUCCEED, how an Elvis Presley postcard inspired “Pinball Wizard,” how THE ACT led him to become a choreographer, how choreographing commercials helped him hone his skills as a director, the challenges of reviving SWEET CHARITY, making his Broadway debut with BABY, working with Heather Headley on AIDA, coming in on DREAM at the last minute, lending his talents to HIGH SOCIETY and THE MAGIC SHOW, why he turned down SUMMER, choreographing Chita Rivera in JERRY’S GIRLS, choreographing acts for everyone from Carol Channing to Alicia Keys, exploring new forms of dance for HOLLER IF YA HEAR ME, backstage shenanigans at SEESAW, his memories of RACHAEL LILY ROSENBLOOM…, and so much more. Don’t miss this in-depth conversation with a seven-time Tony nominee and true Broadway veteran.   Wildcat Tickets: https://54below.org/events/54-sings-wildcat/