Broadway musicals have long dazzled audiences with their storytelling, performances, and visuals. One of the elements that truly sets Broadway apart is its choreography. Choreography breathes life into a performance, transforming words and melodies into visually stunning narratives that speak to audiences. It is a silent language that expresses emotions and stories that words cannot.
Currently, Broadway hosts many musicals that showcase phenomenal choreography, cementing dance as an important part of storytelling. In this post, we dive deeper into these shows and their contributions to Broadway.
Chicago: The Sultry Steps
The musical Chicago, based on a 1926 play of the same name, has had an enduring presence on Broadway. The show opened in 1975 and enjoyed a revival in the mid-'90s that continues to this day. Set in the roaring ‘20s, this show is a tale of murder, greed, and corruption. The musical is famous for its sleek and sultry choreography, which has contributed significantly to its status as one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history.
The choreography of Chicago is a manifestation of the Jazz Age, a time synonymous with liberation, decadence, and rhythm. Drawing inspiration from this era, the dance sequences are a blend of raw sensuality and stylized precision, reflecting this hedonistic time period. Behind the original dance sequences of Chicago was the legendary choreographer Bob Fosse, whose style has left its mark on the musical. Fosse’s choreography, with its signature turned-in knees, rolled shoulders, and jazz hands, adds a distinct flavor to the show, making it instantly recognizable and iconic.
Choreographer Ann Reinking, Fosse’s protege, was responsible for the choreography in the current production of Chicago on Broadway. She brilliantly captured the essence of Fosse's unique dance style while adding her own creative flair. Even after her recent passing, Reinking's influence on the show is evident.
Among the standout dance numbers in Chicago, the "Cell Block Tango" and "All That Jazz" leave a lasting impression. "Cell Block Tango," with its sharp and provocative choreography, tells the stories of six murderesses, each dance move amplifying their stories and adding layers to their characters. On the other hand, "All That Jazz," the show’s opening number, sets the tone for the entire musical. Its pulsating rhythm and sensual dance steps draw the audience into the scandalous world of Chicago.
Hamilton: The Revolutionary Movement
The brainchild of Lin-Manuel Miranda, Hamilton has revolutionized Broadway since its debut in 2015. The musical, a retelling of the life of American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, marries history with hip-hop, creating a theatrical experience that is both fresh and deeply resonant. Hamilton's choreography breathes life into the historical figures, making the past palpable for today’s audience.
The choreography in Hamilton blends traditional and contemporary dance styles. It fuses classical Broadway choreography with elements of hip-hop, jazz, and modern dance, reflecting the musical's unique fusion of past and present, history and innovation. This eclectic mix of dance styles creates a dynamic visual language that perfectly complements the rhythm and energy of the music.
The choreographer behind Hamilton's dynamic dance sequences is Andy Blankenbuehler. His unique vision and meticulous attention to detail have been pivotal in the musical's overwhelming success, earning him widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards. Blankenbuehler’s inspiration comes from many historical sources, from the impressionistic paintings of the late 19th century to specific historical details, such as how to load a gun or how a character’s coat confines them.
Key dance sequences in Hamilton, such as "My Shot" and "Rewind," showcase the power of choreography in storytelling. "My Shot," with its defiant energy and assertive movements, encapsulates Hamilton's ambition and determination, while "Rewind" uses intricate choreography to visually rewind time, illustrating how the same series of events can be perceived differently depending on the perspective. This creative use of choreography not only amplifies the narrative but also adds a unique layer of depth to the characters and their interactions.
MJ the Musical: The Electrifying Moves
MJ the Musical focuses on the life and career of one of the most influential artists of our time, Michael Jackson. The show not only pays tribute to his music but also captures his iconic dance style. It’s a journey into the world of the King of Pop, where every dance move tells a story and electrifies the stage.
The choreography of MJ the Musical brings to life Jackson's signature dance style, from his gravity-defying lean to his iconic moonwalk. It's a celebration of his revolutionary contributions to dance, incorporating his unique blend of agility, precision, and rhythm. Created by choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, the show’s choreography pays homage to MJ’s dance style while infusing it with Broadway flair, creating an experience that is both familiar and fresh.
There are a number of memorable dance sequences in MJ the Musical, reflecting various facets of Jackson's performances. A standout is the recreation of "Thriller," with its unmistakable zombie dance, capturing the theatricality and creativity that defined Jackson's videos.
Hell’s Kitchen: The Confident Flair
Having debuted on Broadway in 2024, Hell's Kitchen is a musical that captures the spirit of the famous New York neighborhood. The show, with its gritty but hopeful narrative, paints a dynamic picture of life in Hell’s Kitchen. Beyond the compelling story and score, the show's energetic choreography reinforces the atmosphere and drives the plot.
The choreography in Hell's Kitchen is as diverse as the neighborhood it portrays. It combines various dance styles, reflecting the cultural melting pot that is New York City. From Latin beats to hip-hop grooves, the choreography is energetic, confident, and full of flair. The choreography reinforces the show’s urban atmosphere, infusing each scene with a sense of rhythm. The choreographer behind Hell's Kitchen's dynamic dance sequences is Camille A. Brown. Three-time Tony Award®-nominated director and choreographer Brown created a choreography that captures the spirit of Hell’s Kitchen, providing the audience with a memorable visual experience.
Standout dance numbers in Hell's Kitchen include the opening ensemble piece, "The Gospel," and “Kaleidoscope.” "The Gospel" uses high-energy choreography to introduce the neighborhood and its eclectic mix of characters. Meanwhile, “Kaleidoscope,” set to a brand new Alicia Keys song, uses fluid movements to depict Ali first falling in love with music.