What is Theatre/Broadway Jazz Dance style?

Theatre Jazz is a branch of jazz dance (an American performing arts form rooted from West African dance culture). The word “theatre” comes from the concept of musical theatre where famous musicals are showcased, often on Broadway (New York), West-end (London) and other world-renowned musical venues, a few examples: Chicago, Lion King, Wicked, A Chorus Line, etc. Thus, Theatre dance is a jazz dance style that is often seen on Broadway stage and known for its highly entertaining quality, rich in story-telling, serving mainly in musicals’ dance numbers.

The style is a fusion of authentic jazz movements, ballet techniques, modern dance, and occasionally tap dancing. One of the peaks of the jazz dance revolution is the contribution of American jazz dancer/choreographer - Jack Cole during the 40s-50s; he is considered as the father of theatre jazz style, who made his jazz remarks first in New York ballrooms in the 20s & 30s, then to classic Broadway musicals & legendary MGM- musical films from the 40s. Other significant influences in the theatre jazz world are Jerome Robbins, Fred Astaire, Bob Fosse, Gwen Versdon, Gene Kelly, Michael Kidd, Matt Mattox, Luigi, etc.

During these recent years, theatre jazz has evolved immensely with even more personality and diversity, to serve not only Broadway shows but also the film industry, dance competition (e.g.: So you think you can dance), live shows. This is evident in the creations of “new generation” choreographers, such as: Andy Blankenbuehler, Al Blackstone, Michael Mindlin, Karla Puno Garcia, Josh Assor, etc.