Ann Reinking

Ann Reinking, a luminary of stage and screen, was a dancer, actress, and choreographer whose career spanned over four decades, defining and redefining the realms of Broadway theater and beyond. Born on November 10, 1949, in Seattle, Washington, Reinking’s journey from a small-town girl to a Broadway legend is a story marked by remarkable talent, perseverance, and an undying passion for the arts. Reinking's early dance training began in Seattle, where at the tender age of 12, she was awarded a scholarship to study ballet. It wasn't long before her prodigious talent caught the eye of teachers at the San Francisco Ballet, where her skills were further honed. Her affinity for dance was fueled by her admiration for ballet greats like Margot Fonteyn, but soon, the seductive allure of Broadway's lights beckoned, drawing her to New York City in her teenage years. Arriving in New York, Reinking’s initial years were spent navigating the competitive terrain of Broadway auditions. Her raw energy and captivating presence soon landed her roles in the chorus lines of major productions, but it was 1974's "Over Here!" that marked a turning point. Sharing the stage with the renowned Andrews Sisters, Reinking's star power was evident, bringing her further opportunities to shine in seminal Broadway productions. In 1977, Ann Reinking's career saw a seminal moment when she stepped into the role of Roxie Hart in Bob Fosse’s “Chicago.” It was a match made in theatrical heaven, as Fosse’s signature style—a blending of jazz dance, intricate choreography, and stark stage magnetism—found its perfect muse in Reinking. Her performance mesmerized audiences and critics alike, affirming her place as one of Broadway's leading lights. This collaboration with Fosse, both professionally and personally, would transcend several productions and become a defining chapter in her career. Her work in "Chicago" was emblematic of her rare ability to blend technical prowess with a potent emotional depth, a combination that would earn her comparisons to legends like Gwen Verdon. Reinking’s stage presence was characterized by an elegance and strength, a testament to her ballet roots, which she adeptly adapted to the sultry, stylized vocabulary of Fosse's choreography. The partnership extended beyond the stage, as Reinking and Fosse maintained a complex, multi-faceted relationship that influenced and inspired their creative workflows. The 1980s expanded Reinking’s horizon. She diversified her portfolio with ventures into television and film, most notably in the 1979 film "All That Jazz," a semi-autobiographical work by Bob Fosse, where her performances drew heavily on her own life experiences. Her film credits also include the cult classic “Annie” (1982), where her portrayal of the gracious Grace Farrell brought warmth and charm to the screen, a testament to her versatility as a performer. Despite her successes, the theater remained Reinking’s greatest love. In 1996, she found herself back in the limelight, reprising her role as Roxie Hart for a new generation in the Broadway revival of “Chicago.” This production was a revelation, with Reinking not only starring but also choreographing the show in the style of Fosse, winning her the Tony Award for Best Choreography. Her choreography was lauded for maintaining Fosse’s original vision while infusing it with her own spirited dynamism and interpretations. The revival of "Chicago" was not just a critical triumph but a commercial one, solidifying Ann Reinking’s status as a Broadway icon. Balancing life on and off the stage, Reinking embraced new roles as a mentor and educator. She co-founded the Broadway Theater Project in Tampa, Florida, in 1991, aimed at empowering and guiding aspiring young performers in the theater arts. Her dedication to mentoring reaffirmed her commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent, sharing her wealth of experience and inspiring students through workshops and personal mentorship. In the latter part of her career, Ann Reinking focused on producing and directing, often working behind the scenes to bring stories to life. Her influence extended beyond her on-stage performances, and in 2017, she returned to the spotlight with "Fosse/Verdon", a project that illuminated her enduring creative relationship with Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon, and underscored her indelible impact on theatrical choreography. Ann Reinking passed away on December 12, 2020, but her legacy lives on, immortalized in the archives of Broadway and in the hearts of those she inspired. Her artistic spirit was one that transformed the ethereal language of dance into a powerful narrative, touching audiences with every step and every gesture. Reinking was more than an actor, more than a dancer; she was a storyteller, an innovator, and, above all, a beacon of the performing arts. Her contributions continue to inspire, a shining emblem of the relentless pursuit of artistic excellence and the joy of performance.