Lynne Taylor-Corbett, a name synonymous with innovative choreography in both theater and film, passed away on January 12 at the age of 78. Her remarkable journey began in Denver, Colorado, on December 2, 1946. Lynne’s early ambitions led her to the prestigious School of American Ballet in New York City. However, despite her initial dreams of a ballet career, she found greater fulfillment in the realms of theatrical movement, an area where her unique gifts flourished.
Although Lynne once expressed her struggles with conforming to the stringent standards of ballet, her trajectory shifted towards choreography, which soon proved to be her calling. Her contributions to the American dance scene were profound, as she engaged with major dance institutions such as the American Ballet Theater and the City Ballet, cementing her status as a versatile and celebrated choreographer.
Taylor-Corbett’s Broadway debut came in 1981 with “Shakespeare’s Cabaret,” but it was her 1988 work on the ambitious musical “Chess” that underscored her creative prowess. This production, though short-lived, showcased her ability to merge story, song, and movement in a compelling manner. Over the next several years, she continued to leave her mark on Broadway with notable productions, including the acclaimed musical “Titanic” in 1997, where her choreography helped to convey the emotional heft of the narrative.
In 2001, she created a lasting impact on the stage with “Swing!,” a buoyant revue that celebrated jazz and swing music. Taylor-Corbett’s work on this show demonstrated her exceptional ability to engage audiences with lively choreography that was accessible yet complex. Her efforts didn’t go unnoticed; she received Tony nominations for both her direction and choreography, solidifying her reputation as a key player in the Broadway scene.
Beyond the theater, Taylor-Corbett made significant strides in Hollywood, starting with her choreography for the iconic 1984 film “Footloose.” The exuberant dance sequence featuring Kevin Bacon became legendary, imprinting both Lynne’s artistic vision and the film on pop culture’s canvas. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of her esteemed collaboration with numerous film projects, where her touch added a spark of creativity that elevated many productions.
Over the ensuing decades, Taylor-Corbett lent her talents to films such as “My Blue Heaven” and “Vanilla Sky,” combining her background in theater and film to create dance sequences that resonated with broad audiences. Each project she contributed to bore the hallmarks of her signature style—vibrant, kinetic, and filled with emotional depth.
Lynne Taylor-Corbett will be remembered not just for her notable works, but also for the trail she blazed for future generations of choreographers. Her artistic legacy lives on through her son Shaun Taylor-Corbett and extended family, which includes her sisters, who each continue the artistic spirit Lynne embodied.
The impact of her choreography, characterized by a unique blend of theatricality and movement, will inspire aspiring dancers and choreographers for years to come. As we reflect on her life’s work, it’s essential to recognize not only the accolades but also the joy and creativity she spread throughout the worlds of dance and musical theater. Lynne Taylor-Corbett’s journey reminds us of the power of artistry to transform, uplift, and entertain, leaving an indelible imprint on both Broadway and Hollywood.
Ultimately, her story is one of resilience, passion, and profound influence—a legacy that transcends her time and will inspire the dance community long into the future.
Leave a Reply