- By Ken Werther
- Photo Courtesy of The Wallis
Legendary actor, dancer, choreographer, and director Gene Kelly brought astonishing grace and athleticism to the big screen during the golden years of movie musicals. In Gene Kelly: The Legacy, Patricia Ward Kelly – his wife and biographer – presents an intimate portrait of this dynamic and innovative artist who created some of the most memorable and iconic scenes in film history. Says Patricia, “Though he is perhaps best known for his brilliant dancing and captivating screen presence, Gene wanted to be recognized more for his innovative work behind the camera and, particularly, for ‘changing the look of dance on film.’” She will also touch on his stage appearances and the fact that he directed the original Broadway production of Flower Drum Song.
The evening at The Wallis will combine rare and familiar film clips, previously unreleased recordings, personal memorabilia, and insights culled from Patricia’s hours of conversations with her husband. Many folks are unaware that Gene Kelly directed several of his most famous films and that he always choreographed his own dance routines. A remarkable nugget Patricia will undoubtedly share: Singin’ in the Rain was only a modest hit when it was first released. It has, of course, been accorded legendary status by contemporary critics, and is frequently regarded as the best film musical ever made. The Hollywood Reporter has called Gene Kelly: The Legacy, “Endearingly entertaining.” How could it not be?
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