Gene Kelly

It is one of the single most iconic moments in the history of the movies: Gene Kelly dancing with absolute joy in a rainstorm. That moment showcases so many things – a brilliant dancer and choreographer at the height of his powers is highlighted on a magnificent set, singing a glorious song that reflects every reason why we love going to the movies in the first place. Like King Kong atop the Empire State Building, Dorothy clicking her heels, Indiana Jones running from the boulder or Cary Grant chased by an airplane, that moment is forever etched in the minds of movie lovers.

In this fast moving and fun multimedia biography we will look at the life, career, personality and art of the great Gene Kelly. We will trace his Pittsburgh roots and follow him as a cocky kid determined to conquer dance, Broadway and Hollywood. He redefined dance on the silver screen. Gene Kelly ditched Fred Astaire’s top hot and tails, replacing them with a sweatshirt and loafers. His masculine dancing, emphasis on ballet, inventive use if props and partners all combined to make his films immediately unique and completely unforgettable. We will see clips of him dancing with partners as different as Rita Hayworth, Fred Astaire, Judy Garland and Jerry The Mouse!

Come prepared to smile – and tap your toes!