It was on this date in 1912, that one of the greatest dancers of all-time (possibly the best tap dancer to have lived) was born–Gene Kelly. I first discovered his great talent when I happened to pick up the film Singin’ in the Rain from our local library back when I was a preteen. I was instantly smitten with his dancing which is out of this world! But don’t be fooled. The guy could act, too. You don’t believe me? Well, check out Inherit the Wind where he plays a smack-talking reporter covering the fictionalized account of the famous Scopes Monkey trials. You will be impressed as were the critics. His talent will never be equaled, as far as I’m concerned. Oh, and I am forever indebted to his expert film direction as he introduced me to Michael Crawford in Hello, Dolly! That was another pivotal movie from my childhood.
Here’s one of my favorite scenes:
For more info:
http://www.biography.com/people/gene-kelly-9362176
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gene_Kelly
