Marge Champion

Marge Champion's life unfolds like a scene in a classic Hollywood musical, filled with grace, ambition, and an enduring commitment to the arts that left an indelible mark on American entertainment. From the animated magic of Disney to Broadway's dazzling stage lights, Champion’s contributions continue to echo across the decades. Born Marjorie Celeste Belcher on September 2, 1919, in Los Angeles, she was destined for the spotlight. Her father, Ernest Belcher, was a noted choreographer and ballet master, reputed for his work with dance legends like Fred Astaire. From him, she inherited not only a genetic legacy but also a rigorous discipline that became evident as Marge began formal dance training at a tender age. Champion's name may not be immediately familiar outside the dance community, yet her early work was legendary. As a teenager, she became the movement reference model for Disney's first feature-length animated film, "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" (1937). Her movements were meticulously captured and translated by Disney's animators, bringing Snow White to life with a realism that had never before been seen in animation. This innovative use of live-action footage to guide animated movements became a hallmark of Disney’s animation process. Champion’s association with Disney did not end with "Snow White." She continued her work as a model for other animated classics, including "Pinocchio" (1940) and "Fantasia" (1940), further cementing her role as a silent architect of the studio’s success. However, Champion was not content to remain behind-the-scenes. In the 1940s, her life took a dramatic turn when she married Gower Champion, a charismatic dancer and choreographer. Together, they formed a dynamic dance duo that captivated audiences with their impeccable timing and effervescent performances. Their partnership was perhaps best exemplified in a string of MGM musicals, including "Show Boat" (1951) and "Lovely to Look At" (1952). Onstage and onscreen, the Champions perfected a style of dance that was fluid and expressive, at once showcasing technical brilliance and emotional intimacy. Their routines were often imbued with humor and a narrative dynamism, setting them apart in the crowded field of Hollywood dance acts. The couple’s unique chemistry and innovative choreography led to frequent television appearances on shows hosted by entertainment giants like Eddie Cantor and Jack Benny. Always evolving, Marge Champion did not confine her talents solely to dance floors and studios. Her thespian abilities shone through in various stage productions. She starred alongside actress Karin Wolfe in the original Broadway production of "Follies" in 1971, a testament to her versatility as a performer. Her commitment extended beyond merely taking on roles; she often contributed to choreography and direction, extending her influence within the realm of musical theatre. Champion's career, however, was not without its challenges. The decline of the big studio system in the late 1950s led to fewer roles and opportunities in Hollywood. Undeterred, she turned her attention towards choreography and television direction, once again proving her adaptability and resilience. She choreographed for shows like "The Marge and Gower Champion Show," highlighting her ability to transcend various entertainment mediums. Champion’s personal life was marked by significant partnerships and separations. Her marriage to Gower ended in divorce in 1973, yet she maintained a working relationship with him until his untimely death in 1980. Her later years were spent alongside television director Boris Sagal, bringing a quieter joy to a life once spent in the fast-paced world of entertainment. Her legacy is multifaceted. As a dance educator, Champion imparted her vast knowledge to eager dancers at institutions such as the University of California, Los Angeles. Her keen eye and meticulous technique influenced countless dancers, many of whom carried her spirit of innovation and dedication into their own careers. Champion also authored books on dance and choreography, ensuring that her methods and insights would continue to shape the performing arts long after her time. Marge Champion passed away on October 21, 2020, at the age of 101, but her influence remains vividly alive. Through archival footage and the memories of those who watched her perform, she continues to inspire artists across generations. Her life story, a vivid tapestry of pioneering talent and unyielding dedication, reminds us of an era where dance was not just a component of entertainment but a defining art form. Across the narratives of jazz hands and harmonious duets, Marge Champion emerges as an emblem of elegance and grace. Her contributions to film, theater, and television enrich the annals of American entertainment history, a poignant reminder of a legacy that continues to twirl under the soft glow of stage lights.