The dance world mourns the loss of Lynne Taylor-Corbett, a luminary whose contributions to stage and screen have left an enduring legacy. Born on December 2, 1946, in Denver, her early life was characterized by a relentless pursuit of dance. After relocating to New York City post-high school to attend the esteemed School of American Ballet, Taylor-Corbett soon discovered that traditional ballet was not her destined path. She candidly remarked in a past interview, “I was never really suited to be a ballet dancer, but I had a gift for theatricality and movement.” It was this gift that would guide her toward a successful career as a choreographer, changing the landscape of American theater and film.
Lynne’s foray into choreography rapidly transformed her from a hopeful ballet dancer into a celebrated artist recognized in both theatrical circles and Hollywood. By the early 1980s, she had established herself within the vibrant community of New York’s dance companies, working with prestigious institutions such as the American Ballet Theater and the City Ballet. Even in a field as competitive as dance, she managed to carve out a niche for herself, displaying her distinctive style and innovative techniques. Her work was not just a blend of dance but also a captivating spectacle that brought stories to life through movement.
Her Broadway debut came with “Shakespeare’s Cabaret” in 1981, but it was the 1988 musical “Chess” that allowed her stylistic fingerprints to stretch across the Great White Way. The short-lived but ambitious production showcased her ability to marry choreography with complex narratives, setting her apart in an industry where many worked solely with one or the other.
Taylor-Corbett’s most iconic contributions include her choreography for the groundbreaking musical “Titanic” in 1997 and her direction of “Swing!” in 2000, the latter of which featured beloved jazz standards. Her work on “Swing!” not only garnered her accolades but also demonstrated her keen ability to revitalize and celebrate American cultural history through dance. Nominations for Tony Awards reflected her versatility and effectiveness in both dance and direction, showcasing her dual talents in a field that often privileges one over the other.
Beyond Broadway, Lynne’s influence stretched into the film industry. Her choreography for Kevin Bacon’s electrifying dance scene in the iconic 1984 film “Footloose” remains an indelible part of pop culture. This pivotal sequence not only propelled Bacon into the spotlight but also solidified Taylor-Corbett’s status as a go-to choreographer for Hollywood projects. Continued collaborations followed in films like “My Blue Heaven” and “Bewitched,” further establishing her versatile reputation across various mediums.
As a trailblazer, Taylor-Corbett’s impact transcends her tangible accomplishments. Her ability to blend classical dance techniques with theatrical flair opened pathways for future choreographers to experiment and innovate. Her commitment to the expressive potential of dance inspired countless dancers and choreographers, who looked to her as a role model in an industry traditionally steeped in gender norms and expectations.
Lynne Taylor-Corbett passed away from breast cancer on January 12, 2024, leaving behind not only her son Shaun but also a cadre of admirers, collaborators, and a dance community forever touched by her artistry. Her sisters and family mourn her passing, but it is through her relentless spirit and indomitable creativity that she will be remembered.
The legacy she leaves is not merely one of choreography but an embodiment of the transformative power of dance, a testament to the magic that happens when one dares to express their truth through movement. As the dance world reflects on her life, it is clear that Lynne Taylor-Corbett’s contributions will resonate for generations to come.
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