Bob Fosse's 'Dancin'' is a landmark in the world of musical theater, known for its innovative choreography and its celebration of dance as an art form. Premiering on Broadway in 1978, this musical revue was a testament to Fosse's genius and his ability to push the boundaries of traditional theater. The show was a tribute to dance itself, featuring a wide array of music styles and showcasing the talents of its dancers in a plotless, dance-driven format.
A Revolutionary Concept
'Dancin'' was revolutionary in its concept, as it was one of the first Broadway shows to focus entirely on dance without a traditional storyline. Bob Fosse, inspired by the success of 'A Chorus Line,' wanted to create a show that was purely about dance. He chose to use pre-existing songs from various genres, including classical, jazz, and pop, to create a tapestry of movement and music. This decision allowed Fosse to break free from the constraints of a traditional book musical and focus solely on choreography.
The show was a significant milestone for dancers, both artistically and financially. For the first time, the entire company of a Broadway show was given principal contracts under Equity, which meant higher salaries for the performers. This was a groundbreaking move that recognized the importance of dancers in the theater industry and set a precedent for future productions.
The Original Broadway Production
'Dancin'' opened on Broadway at the Broadhurst Theatre on March 27, 1978, after an out-of-town tryout in Boston. It later transferred to the Ambassador Theatre and ran until June 27, 1982, completing 1,774 performances. The show was a strenuous endeavor for the dancers, who were required to perform complex and demanding choreography. Injuries were common, but the dedication and passion of the performers were evident in every performance.
The original production received seven Tony Award nominations, with Bob Fosse winning for Best Choreography. The lighting design by Jules Fisher also won a Tony, highlighting the show's technical achievements. Despite the lack of a sound design category at the time, the production's sound was also praised, with designer Abe Jacob receiving recognition for his work.
Tours and Revivals
Following its Broadway success, 'Dancin'' embarked on two national tours and had a limited run in London at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. The show's demanding choreography made it difficult to revive, but its influence continued to be felt in the dance community. Several numbers from 'Dancin'' were recreated for the 1999 dance revue 'Fosse,' ensuring that Fosse's innovative choreography continued to inspire new generations of dancers.
In 2023, a revival of 'Dancin'' was staged on Broadway, directed by original cast member Wayne Cilento. This production included new material and restored some of the original sequences, paying homage to Fosse's legacy while introducing his work to a new audience. The revival was a testament to the enduring impact of 'Dancin'' and its place in the history of musical theater.
