When you hear the name Bob Fosse, “All That Jazz” is probably the first thing that comes to mind. But in 1978, Bob Fosse’s DANCIN’ came to the Broadway stage as an incredible tribute to the art of dance. The original production received seven 1978 Tony Award nominations, with Fosse winning for Best Choreography.
Over 40 years later, DANCIN’ is back on Broadway in its first ever revival, and it’s a full-throated, full-bodied celebration of the art form Fosse loved and perfected. In this interview, hear from the cast what it means to be part of this production, what audiences can expect from the show, and more! Then make sure you visit the show page to get your group tickets to see DANCIN’ on Broadway.
Tony d’Alelio
What does it mean to you for this show to return to Broadway over 40 years later (and to get to be part of it)?
There is a responsibility there to honor what Mr. Fosse created. His work requires athleticism & attention to detail, but really demands you tell a truthful story as an actor thru his movement. I hope this combination of inner workings reach audiences today, inspiring them to feel joy - or feeling anything. I find meaning in that.
What is a quintessential Fosse pose to you?
A solid Fosse pose means you’re activating your entire being with a thought or feeling. It’s insular, and not for show - the audience just happens to be watching.
What is your favorite Fosse number?
“Rich Man’s Frug” I love the progression of the piece. You get an idea of who these party people are by how they gradually let loose thru a haze of smoke & martinis. Also, how Mr. Fosse shot “The Frug” for the 1969 Sweet Charity film places the audiences inside the choreography, a tool not accessible in the theatre. That sequence changed how dance was seen on film forever.
Peter John Chursin
What does it mean to you for this show to return to Broadway over 40 years later (and to get to be part of it)?
I feel this is an opportunity to share Bob Fosse’s genius with a new generation of dancers and audiences who may not be aware of his work and influence. I also believe it’s long past due for a Broadway show such as DANCIN’ to really highlight the work and artistry of dancers. Bob Fosse’s love for dancers really shines through with this show and his belief in them as elite performers and triple threats.
What can audiences expect from DANCIN’?
Almost two and a half hours of joy and awe! I really do believe that in all the chaos happening in the world, it’s such a treat to go to the theater and be able to simply lose oneself in the movement, athleticism, and love on the stage. The intimacy of the Music Box really allows us to invite audiences into our plotless world and go for a wild ride.
Why is DANCIN’ the perfect show for someone looking for the quintessential Broadway experience?
Broadway should you leave you inspired in some way, and I think after seeing DANCIN’ you’ll leave energized by the power of dance. And don’t let the title fool you- we’ve got plenty of acting and singing to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Krystal Mackie
Will someone unfamiliar with Fosse’s work still be able to enjoy the show?
ABSOLUTELY! It's art! Anyone who is unfamiliar with pieces of work in a museum still goes to that museum to observe it and learn from those pieces of art. It's the same thing here! Fosse's work is art. I was unfamiliar with a lot of the material I am currently doing. After joining the show, it allowed me to go home and do some more research, and still till this day I rewatch some of the footage online just for references.
What is your favorite Fosse number?
“Sing, Sing, Sing!” It's fun, it's never-ending (in the best way), it's one of the hardest endurance numbers! The second you hear that down beat of the drum you can't help but to start dancing. The number leaves me at the edge of my seat, every time!
Why is DANCIN’ the perfect show for someone looking for the quintessential Broadway experience?
You are getting to see the TRUE definition of triple threat in this show. Dancers have always been actors, we are always telling a story through movement. This show we are dancing our faces off, then quick changing to come back on and do a monologue, then dance some more, then quick changing (and I mean QUICK) into a vocal moment/solo. You are getting triple threat from 22 principals! It's amazing to watch and be inspired by daily.
Karli Dinardo
What does it mean to you for this show to return to Broadway over 40 years later (and to get to be part of it)?
It’s truly such an honor to be a part of this legacy. I’m grateful we get to highlight dance and dancers as triple threats in the unique way our show does. And to be experiencing Fosse’s work in this way is so thrilling and fulfilling as an Artist.
What is a quintessential Fosse pose to you?
The position I get to do at the beginning of the show - where one arm is extended all the way up as the opposing leg is in a bevel, the body lifted and rotated in opposition - is my favorite quintessential fosse pose. It’s iconic and has been identifiable to me from a young age.
Why is DANCIN’ the perfect show for someone looking for the quintessential Broadway experience?
It has a little bit of everything! It’s a fun night at the theater where you get to laugh and be entertained. What’s better than watching some phenomenal dancing and singing?
Khori Petinaud
What does it mean to you for this show to return to Broadway over 40 years later (and to get to be part of it)?
It means the world to be a part of Bob Fosse’s legacy in this way! He is one of the most prolific choreographers of jazz dance and to do his work every night is one of my greatest honors. It also means so much to me to be bringing this show to a new generation of dancers. It’s not all bowler hats and splayed fingers…there are so many facets his movement and DANCIN’ really showcases it all.
What can audiences expect from DANCIN’?
Audiences can expect an evening jam packed with all the many sides of Bob Fosses work! You’ll see numbers you know and love as well as so many you may have had no idea came from the mind of the same person! There’s something for everyone in our show.
Pedro Garza
What does it mean to you for this show to return to Broadway over 40 years later (and to get to be part of it)?
To me it symbolizes a wave of respect and rightful recognition for dancers. It’s an unparalleled exploration into their inherent artistry, complexities, and humanity. In an industry that can often push dancers into the wings, this show gives the audience no choice but to witness us all be the stars we’ve always been.
What can audiences expect from DANCIN’?
All of their Fosse favorites, and then some. As well as the most impressive display of physical prowess on Broadway by far. With a showcase of dance that sticks to no plot one can’t really expect anything, but one thing’s for sure: they’ll be blown away.
What is your favorite Fosse number?
“Rich Man’s Frug” hands down. It was the first time I witnessed dance as a form of storytelling as a young kid. As someone who didn’t grow up training heavily in dance and came to it by way of acting, "Frug" was almost this penultimate example of subtlety and nuance matched only in power by its explosive breakout moments.
Gabriel Hyman
What does it mean to you for this show to return to Broadway over 40 years later (and to get to be part of it)?
It’s an honor to be a part of this production. To say that I’m a principal on Broadway as a dancer is truly a dream come true.
Will someone unfamiliar with Fosse’s work still be able to enjoy the show?
Absolutely! The beautiful thing about Fosse’s work is how versatile it is. You can clearly see his inspirations and his voice through all his movements, so there is a dance style for every audience member to enjoy.
What is your favorite Fosse number?
My favorite Fosse number is “Sing, Sing, Sing.” I find myself smiling from beginning to end. It’s such a feel-good number.
Mattie Love
What is a quintessential Fosse pose to you?
I think for me it’s Bob Fosse with a bowler hat and cigarette slouched and mysterious way that holds a secret and makes the viewer want to know who is behind the bowler hat hiding in the slouch of the clavicle line.
What can audiences expect from DANCIN’?
To leave feeling joy and getting to experience Bob in all his facets. Who he was as a man, choreographer, director. It’s a reminder we are all more multifaceted than the one introduction people know us to be. The audience will leave knowing who Mattie is, who Nando is, who Manny is… we can show all of Bob through ourselves.
What is your favorite Fosse number?
Snake in the Grass from Little Prince. I could watch Bob all day and I love the message “If you would like to cure the fever called life, get some relief from all the struggle and strife, yhe grandest medicine that I can propose Is under your nose: s snake in the grass.” The ethereal, delicate, expansive, explosive, ease he has is unmatched and I often watch this when I’m feeling like I need a little help to push through.
Manny Herrera
What does it mean to you for this show to return to Broadway over 40 years later (and to get to be part of it)?
So grateful for this opportunity. A show like this comes around maybe once in a generation for artists like us. Beyond humbled that it happened while I’m still young enough to do it!
What can audiences expect from DANCIN’?
“Dancin, dancin, some singing and more dancin.”
Will someone unfamiliar with Fosse’s work still be able to enjoy the show?
This show is truly for EVERYONE… even the audiences who knows nothing about Fosse. It’s a fast-paced show that just keeps hitting.
Why is DANCIN’ the perfect show for someone looking for the quintessential Broadway experience?
Fosse's work is iconic, groundbreaking, and ahead of its time… which is why it’s always going to be current, relevant, and quintessential for Broadway.
Ron Todorowski
What is a quintessential Fosse pose to you?
I always have a difficult time answering this question. All of them!
What can audiences expect from DANCIN’?
A huge burst of joy! The energy and commitment from this cast is next level in my opinion. Audiences are telling us after every show and that fuels us to keep it up.
What is your favorite Fosse number?
“Dancin' Man.” I think it is perfectly choreographed in structure and style. It's very emotional to perform in the best way, a dancer's prayer. It will stay with me forever.
Why is DANCIN’ the perfect show for someone looking for the quintessential Broadway experience?
It is pure entertainment from start to finish. You will feel just about every emotion and go on a very unique ride. We've already had an enormous amount of people tell us at the stage door after that it's their 2nd, 3rd even 5th time seeing the show. That's says a lot if you ask me.