Ann Reinking was a choreographer, dancer, and actress known for productions including “Chicago” – both the original Broadway show and the 1996 revival.
- Died: December 12, 2020 (Who else died on December 12?)
- Details of death: Died in the Seattle area at the age of 71.
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Stage and screen
Reinking became a star when she took over for Gwen Verdon as Roxie Hart in the original Broadway production of “Chicago” in 1977. She had previously worked with the show’s legendary choreographer, Bob Fosse, in “Pippin,” and she became his muse as well as beginning a romantic relationship with him that lasted for several years. She later worked with Fosse on Broadway in “Dancin’” and “Sweet Charity,” as well as in the movie “All That Jazz.”
Influenced by Fosse’s work but drawing on her own creativity as well, Reinking became an acclaimed choreographer, and when “Chicago” was revived on Broadway in 1996, she both choreographed the production and returned to the role of Roxie Hart, winning a Tony Award for Best Choreography. She co-created, co-directed, and co-choreographed the 1998 revue “Fosse,” receiving an Olivier Award for Best Theatre Choreographer when she brought the production to London’s West End. Reinking also starred in the movies “Annie” and “Micki & Maude.”
Reinking on her influences
“I was very fortunate to have some legendary teachers, including Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon. However, it was Robert Joffrey who, after hearing me sing, suggested that I might consider musical theater over ballet as a career. He told me, ‘It really would be fantastic if you did Broadway.’ His counsel was pivotal to the direction of my career, and just as when I began to teach, once I began I knew what I wanted to do.” —from a 2007 interview with Dance magazine
Tributes to Ann Reinking
Full obituary: The New York Times
