THE tributes have been pouring in for choreographer extraordinaire, Ann Reinking.
The legendary Broadway dancer died. Here’s a look at her life and work…
Who was Ann Reinking?
Ann Reinking was well-known as the star of the Broadway show Chicago and a Tony-Winning Choreographer.
Born in Seattle in 1949, Ann trained as a ballet dancer, but made her debut on stage at a young age with a more bold style of dance.
At just 19, she starred as a Kit Kat Girl in the original 1960s run of Cabaret.
From that point on, Ann was a prolific Broadway dancer, appearing in Coco in 1969, Over Here! in 1974, Goodtime Charley in 1975, Dancin’ in 1978 and Sweet Charity in 1986.
After a long career on stage, Ann went on to co-directed and co-choreograph Fosse, a musical showcasing the choreography of Bob Fosse – to whom Ann had been a protégée and a lover.
She won the Olivier Award for Best Theatre Choreographer for the 2000 West End production of the show.
Reiking, who’s son Chris was born with Marfan syndrome, spent her latter years raising awareness about the disease.
In 2009, she produced a documentary named In My Hands: A Story of Marfan Syndrome.
What was her cause of death?
Ann died on December 12, 2020 but no cause of death has been disclosed.
Ann’s family said in a statement: “Ann was the heart of our family and the life of the party. She was visiting our brother in Washington state when she went to sleep and never woke up.
“We will miss her more than we can say. Heaven has the best choreographer available now.
“I’m sure they are dancing up a storm up there! Annie, we will love and miss you always!!!”
Her sister-in-law Dahrla King confirmed the news to Variety on Monday. “The world and our family have lost a vibrant, amazing talent and beautiful soul,”
Reinking is survived by her husband, Peter Talbert, and her son Chris.
When did she appear in Annie and Chicago?
Reinking played Roxie Hart in 1977’s Broadway production of Chicago.
She reprised the role of Roxie in the original 1996 production of Chicago, alongside Bebe Neuwirth as Velma Kelly and Joel Grey as Amos Hart.
She choreographed the show “in the style of Bob Fosse,” the show’s late director and choreographer.
Reinking’s work on “Chicago” was rewarded with a 1997 Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle awards.
Reinking also was featured in the film version of the musical Annie in 1982 playing the role of Grace Farrell, Annie’s mother figure.
