Immortal Icons of Dance

In this episode, Lisa Mordente talks about meeting Bob Fosse as a teenager, and watching her mother, Chita Rivera, rehearse and perform in Chicago (1975). Lisa was the first baby born of a "Shark" and a "Jet"—her father, Tony Mordente played "A-Rab" in the original Broadway production of West Side Story, where he met Chita who was playing "Anita." Lisa recalls the backstage antics of the cast, and the inspiration she found in watching Gwen Verdon and her mother perform together.Additional Resources:The VaultAdditional Chicago FootageChita: A Memoir by Chita Rivera

In this episode, Marsha Bagwell tells us about her time in the original cast of Chicago (1975) as the standby for Matron Mama Morton and Mary Sunshine. Marsha became Gwen Verdon's personal assistant during the production and was privy to many private conversations regarding the show. She shares unparalleled insight on Bob Fosse's process, Gwen Verdon's generosity, and the quirks and personalities of the entire cast.The VaultAdditional Chicago Footage

In this episode, Lenora Nemetz discusses working with Bob Fosse as the standby for both Gwen Verdon and Chita Rivera in Chicago (1975). She recalls going on for Gwen as "Roxie" during the out-of-town try-out without any rehearsals. Lenora also took over the role "Velma" full time after Chita left the show and Ann Reinking joined as Roxie.Additional Resources:The Vault Blog Posts⁠Chicago History YouTube Playlist⁠

In this episode, we hear from Pamela Sousa who was an ensemble member in the original cast of Bob Fosse's 1975 musical Chicago, starring Gwen Verdon and Chita Rivera. Later, she performed in Michael Bennet's A Chorus Line as a Cassie replacement. Pamela shares her experiences working with both of these legendary choreographers.Additional Resources:Visit the Vault - Chicago 50th AnniversaryChicago 50th YouTube PlaylistChita: A Memoir by Chita RiveraKander & Ebb MemoirFOSSE by Sam Wasson

In the episode, Jessica Lee Goldyn discusses her early experiences learning A Chorus Line as a child, training with Baayork Lee and Donna McKechnie, and performing Cassie in the closing week of the 2006 Broadway Revival of a A Chorus Line.Watch on YouTube

In this episode Charlotte d'Amboise reminisces about her year as Cassie in the 2006 Broadway revival of a Chorus Line. She talks about being inspired by Donna McKechnie, as the struggles and joys of this difficult role.Watch on YouTube

In this episode, Robyn Hurder discusses how A Chorus Line has affected the trajectory of her career--from seeing the show as a nine-year-old, to performing in the 2006 revival tour, to ultimately portraying Cassie at New York City Center in 2018. Robyn will honor the legacy of Michael Bennett and A Chorus Line at the 50th Anniversary Celebration at the Shubert Theater this month.Watch on YouTube

In this episode Donna McKechnie speaks about her early inspirations, her personal and professional relationship with Michael Bennett, and her reflections of 50 years of A Chorus Line. She also speaks at length about the character she originated, Cassie, and what it means to her to be able to mentor other performers in that role.Watch on YouTubeDonna's Autobiography: Time Steps: My Musical Comedy Life

In this episode Mitzi Hamilton discusses her long association with Michael Bennett's A Chorus Line which celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year. Mitzi was one of the two women whose stories provided the inspiration for the character of "Val" in the show. Mitzi shares wonderful memories of her Broadway debut, working with Michael Bennett, and how much A Chorus Line means to her.Watch on YoutubeA Chorus Line History

In this episode Baayork Lee discusses her early career on Broadway (starting at age 5!), her working relationship with Michael Bennett, and how she has worked to preserve his legacy as A Chorus Line celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.Watch on YouTubeRead Baayork's Book

In this episode we hear from Debbie Allen on her relationship with Chita Rivera. Chita originated the role of 'Anita' in West Side Story on Broadway in 1957. In 1980, when West Side Story was revived, Debbie Allen was cast as 'Anita' and she was coached by Chita in the role. The two maintained a close relationship over the ensuing decades as their careers continued to evolve on Broadway, in film, and television. One thing they have in common: blazing a trail for those who come after them!Additional Resources:FootageChita: A Memoir

In this bonus episode we will hear a previously unreleased 1982 interview between Alexandra Danilova, and 13-year-old School of American Ballet student, Jennifer Fuchs. Jennifer conducted this interview for a school project and has given Immortal Icons of Dance permission to publish it so that everyone can hear this rare audio of Danilova talking about her own life! Listen to this episode on YouTube for closed captioning

In this episode, former New York City Ballet dancer, John Clifford, tells us about his friendship with the great Russian ballerina, Alexandra Danilova. Madame Danilova (known to friends as "Choura") grew up at the Imperial Ballet School in St. Petersburg Russia, became a soloist Mariinsky ballet, and toured the world as an acclaimed ballerina in many ballet companies including the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. After retiring from the stage, she settled in New York City and became a beloved teacher at the School of American Ballet for 25 years where she taught new generations of dancers how to become a ballerina in the grand sense of the word.Additional ResourcesFootageChoura: The Memoirs of Alexandra Danilova

In this episode, Diana White, a former NYCB dancer recalls what it was like receiving her early ballet training from Maria Tallchief in Chicago. Diana took the lessons she learned from Maria Tallchief with her when she joined NYCB and as she continues to stage Balanchine works around the world Additional Resources: Limited Edition 100 Years of Maria Tallchief Firebird Footage Maria's Autobiography Maria Tallchief Quarter Maria Tallchief Barbie

In this episode we speak with author and dance researcher Nancy Reynolds on her lifetime of work preserving the work of George Balanchine. Nancy attended the School of American Ballet was a member of the New York City Ballet for 4 years, after which she became an editor and author. Her first book, "Repertory in Review: 40 Years of the New York City Ballet," an invaluable resource for generations for dance researchers. Additional Resources: Footage Balanchine Foundation Video Archive Repertory in Review Book Remembering Lincoln

In this episode, Jean-Pierre Frohlich discusses his 60+ year history with Balanchine's Nutcracker at the New York City Ballet. Jean-Pierre performed the children's role of Fritz at New York City Center, and was the first Prince when NYCB moved to Lincoln Center in 1964. He danced most of the adult roles in the ballet during his time as a company member, and since 1990 he has been a ballet master and repertory director at NYCB, coaching the subsequent generations of dancers in the Nutcracker.

In this episode we get 2 interviews! The episode focuses on the legendary Broadway and ballet photographer, Martha Swope, who helped to immortalized so many hundreds of performers and productions with her images. Delia Peters, a former NYCB dancer and close friend of Martha's, talks about their friendship. Carol Rosegg, a protege of Martha's who is now an preeminent theater photographer, talks about what she learned from Martha as a young photographer in New York. Additional Resources: Reference Footage Playbill Article  New York Times Article  The Nutcracker: The Story of the New York City Ballet's Production Told in Pictures Baryshnikov on Broadway: Photographs Mourka: The Autobiography of a Cat

In this episode, composer David K. Israel takes us inside his collaboration with the modern dance choreographer Paul Taylor. David shares stories about Paul's artistry in the studio and his quirks as a neighbor! Additional Resources Related Footage Private Domain- Paul Taylor Autobiography Interview with David K. Israel Why I Make Dances - Essay by Paul Taylor

In this episode, Theara discusses her early career in the Dance Theatre of Harlem under Arthur Mitchell and how that experience prepared her for future opportunities as a performer on Broadway, a teacher, and a leader. Additional Resources: Theara Footage Arthur Mitchell Sweatshirt

In this episode we learn about the New York State Theater and the New York City Ballet from a new perspective: backstage! Perry Silvey worked at the theater for over 40 years in many positions, including stage manager and technical director. He began working there during the last 7 years of Balanchine’s life, and during the last 22 years of Robbins’ life. Perry recounts his favorite memories of calling the light cues for ballets like Glass Pieces, managing the specificity of Duo Concertant, and the joys and trials of Nutcracker. Additional Resources: New York State Theater History Perry Silvey in the New York Times Watch this episode on YouTube

In this episode, 87 year-old Balanchine ballerina, Allegra Kent, sits down to talk about her life and career. Beginning with her childhood in California and her teenage years at the School of American Ballet. She also shares memories of iconic ballets she performed including Agon, Seven Deadly Sins, Symphony in C, La Sonnambula, The Cage, Bugaku, and Apollo. Additional Resources: Reference Footage Allegra Kent Sweatshirt Allegra Kent Ornament Allegra Kent's Book

For the finale of the first season of Immortal Icons of Dance, we talked to Patricia Ward Kelly about her late husband, Gene Kelly. Star of stage and screen, we learn that Gene wanted to be remembered for his choreography and film direction. We also find out what dance sequences he was most proud of, and Patricia busts some myths that have circulated about Gene. Additional Resources: Reference Footage Singin' in the Rain Invitation to the Dance Gene Kelly Ultimate Pack ⁠Immortal Icons of Dance Books, Shirts, and Ornaments Disclaimer: Some of the links are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through this link and finalize a purchase.

In this episode, Jacqulyn Buglisi, artistic director of Buglisi Dance Theatre, recounts her time as a student of Martha Graham and her 12 years as principal dancer in the Martha Graham Dance Company. Martha Graham was a titan of 20th century dance, hailed by TIME magazine as "Dancer of the Century" in 1998. She choreographed 181 ballets during her lifetime—including "Tangled Night" which was created on Jacqulyn Buglisi. Additional Resources Reference Footage Blood Memory: An Autobiography by Martha Graham Deep Song: The Dance Story of Martha Graham Martha Graham: When Dance Became Modern Immortal Icons of Dance Holiday Gifts Disclaimer: Some of the links are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through this link and finalize a purchase.

In this episode, Dylis Croman tells us about being mentored by Ann Reinking throughout her career. Dylis was 14 when she first met Ann, and it was because of Ann that she made her Broadway debut in "Fosse" in her early twenties. Now Dylis carries Ann's legacy forward, especially anytime she steps on stage as Roxie Hart in "Chicago" on Broadway. Additional Resources: Reference Footage All That Jazz (1979) Annie (1982) Ann Reinking Shirt All That Jazz Sweatshirt Disclaimer: Some of the links are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through this link and finalize a purchase.

In this episode, Elizabeth Farrell joins us to talk about her time dancing for Agnes DeMille. Elizabeth danced with American Ballet theater for 13 years and during that time was chosen by DeMille to dance in a number of her ballets, including the lead role in her masterpiece, 'Rodeo'. Additional Resources Reference Footage Agnes DeMille Website Autobiography: Dance to the Piper & Promenade Home Oklahoma! Podcast Merch Disclaimer: Some of the links are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through this link and finalize a purchase.

Adolfo "Shabba-Doo" Quiñones was a dancer on Soul Train in the 70s, was one of the founding members of The Lockers, and was best known for his role of "Ozone" in the movies Breakin' and Breakin' 2: Electric Boogaloo. Guest, Professor Bird talks to us about his mentor, Shabba-Doo, what he learned from him and how he's learned to pass on hip hop culture to the next generation. Reference Footage Breakin' & Breakin' 2 LA Times Article Podcast Merch Disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

In this episode of Immortal Icons of Dance, host Lauryn Johnson welcomes guest Shelby Kaufman to discuss her relationship with the legendary tap dancer Dr. Harold "Stumpy" Cromer. Shelby shares how their bond went beyond dance, teaching her valuable lessons and emphasizing the power of age- and race-defying friendships. Shelby also delves into Harold's incredible career, from his humble beginnings on the streets to performing on Broadway and becoming a mentor to the tap community. Additional Resources: Footage Interview with Harold Cromer New York Times Article Bio Source Info Podcast Merch Disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

In this episode, host Lauryn Johnson interviews Broadway actress Mary Ann Lamb. Mary Ann shares insights about her collaborations with the Immortal Icon, Ann Reinking, and her experiences working on the long-running show "Chicago." She discusses the importance of honesty and hard work in dance, and reflects on her interactions with renowned performers like Gwen Verdon and Chita Rivera. Overall, it provides a fascinating look into the life and career of a dance icon. Additional Resources: Footage Ann Reinking Shirt Ann Reinking Sweatshirt All That Jazz (1979) Fosse (2002) New York Times Article Disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Mary Ann Lamb, a Broadway veteran with 11 Broadway credits speaks about her experience working with Jerome Robbins, one of the great theater-makers of the 20th century. Additional Resources: Footage Somewhere: The Life of Jerome Robbins by Amanda Vaill Jerome Robbins, by Himself edited by Amanda Vaill Jerome Robbins: Something To Dance About Documentary Podcast Merch Disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Former Dance Theatre of Harlem Artist, Christopher Charles McDaniel, talks to us about his experiences in the studio as one of Arthur Mitchell's last students. Additional Resources: Arthur Mitchell Footage Arthur New York Times Article Arthur Agon Sweatshirt Podcast Merch Disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Susan Pilarre was a dancer with the New York City Ballet for 16 years under the direction of George Balanchine. She then spent 37 years passing on his teachings at the School of American Ballet. We sat down to discuss Balanchine's legacy and what it has meant to her to be a part of it. Additional Resources: “Balanchine: A Biography” By Bernard Taper Watch footage referenced in the episode “In Balanchine’s Classroom” a documentary by Connie Hochman Serenade Ornament Podcast Merch Disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

In this episode Lauryn will introduce listeners to the podcast by describing what her inspiration was and what the goals she has for the podcast. Lauryn also details her dance history experience and why she is so passionate about it. Tune in each week to listen to interviews with where we discuss and remember the iconic dancers of the past. Merch: shop.immortaliconsofdance.com Instagram: @immortaliconsofdance