The Nicholas Brothers were a famous African- American team of dancing brothers, Fayard (1914–2006) and Harold (1921–2000). With their highly acrobatic technique (flash dance), high level of artistry and daring innovations, they were considered by many the greatest tap dancers of their day. Continue reading
Category: film
Hollywood Monday: Lady Sings The Blues (Big Ben) Plus Encore performance
Lady Sings the Blues is the story of jazz singer Billie Holiday and is loosely based on her 1956 autobiography. Holiday took its title from one of her most popular songs. Continue reading
4/4/14 O&A NYC DANCE: Rudolf Nureyev as Valentino (1977) Tango Scene ft. Rudolf Nureyev & Anthony Dowell
Rudolph Nureyev as Valentino. A biographical drama film very loosely based on the life of Rudolph Valentino, directed by Ken Russell in 1977. In this scene former dance hall performer Rudolpho Valentino dances a tango with dance legend Ballet Russe star Vaslav Nijinsky. Continue reading
11/29/17 O&A NYC DANCE: Rudolf Nureyev and Zizi Jeanmaire: Le Jeune Homme et La Mort by Roland Petit (1966)
Le Jeune Homme et La Mort was choreographed by Roland Petit choreographed in 1946 to Bach’s Passacaglia and Fugue in C Minor, BWV 582, with a one-act libretto by Jean Cocteau. It tells the story of a Young Man driven to suicide by his faithless lover. Sets were by George Wakhevitch and costumes variously reported as being by Karinska or Cocteau. Continue reading
Lupita Nyong’o Defines True Beauty (video and transcript)
By Walter Rutledge
The Oscar speech by Lupita Nyong’o was a historic moment; but her most powerful message was delivered during the 7th annual Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon sponsored by Essence Magazine. Nyong’o was honored with the Best Breakthrough Performance Award for her work in then Oscar nominated 12 Years a Slave. She shared a poignant letter from a girl whose dark complexion gave her feeling of inadequacy. She was able to find her own beauty through Lupita’s journey. Then Lupita share her own story of self-doubt because of her complexion. It is a moving and inspiring affirmation on the meaning of true beauty. Continue reading









