On of my most striking memories from the New York stage was back in 1978 when The American Dance Machine presented a non-stop series of showstoppers from past Broadway musicals, which included Brigadoon, Cabaret, Desstry Rides Again, Half a Sixpence, and No No Nanette. The company, founded by Lee Theodore, described its purpose to be “a living archive of Broadway Theatre Dance.” Upon her death in 1987, the organization ceased. However, in February 2012, Nikki Feirt Atkins founded American Dance Machine for the 21st Century in order to continue and advance the legacy of the late Lee Theodore.
This has culminated in a new Off-Broadway production entitled Gotta Dance. As with the original show, almost 50 years ago, dance numbers from a variety of shows by a who’s who of choreographic greats are featured. This time around, movie musicals, such as Singin’ in the Rain, are part of the program. Choreographers represented include Gene Kelly, Stanley Donen, Michael Bennett, Jerome Robbins, Susan Stroman, and Bob Fosse. While many great dance routines are packed into the 90-miute, intermissionless show - A Chorus Line, Gypsy, West Side Story – I was disappointed there were not enough top tier production numbers from other outstanding musicals. For instance, what about post 1978 shows such as The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, 42nd Street, The Tap Dance Kid, Me and My Girl, Newsies as opposed to Contact, Smokey Joe’s Café, or a tame “Sweet Georgia Brown” from Bubbling Brown Sugar?
The performers are first-rate, with some a bit more polished than others. Ms. Atkins and multiple Tony nominated choreographer Randy Skinner direct the non-stop series of dance routines with care and skill. While I do quibble about some aspects of the production, it is still a highly entertaining presentation, especially for dance aficionados.
Gotta Dance, playing Off-Broadway at the comfortable and spacious Stage 42. Click here for dates, times, and ticket information.
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