Rainy Friday

Today is the anniversary of both Jean Harlow and Dorothy Parker's deaths (June 7, 1937 and June 7, 1967, respectively) and it's been raining buckets all day, which seems appropriate for the occasion. But rather than end the day on a sad note, let's turn our thoughts to something more pleasant. Here is Gene Kelly in the classic scene from Singing in the Rain (1952), made only more brilliant when you learn that on the first day of filming Kelly was sick with a fever but still managed to dance his heart out. So if it's raining where you are remember to "walk down the lane with a happy refrain." Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!

Happy Birthday Gene Kelly!

Happy Birthday Gene Kelly! Born on August 23, 1912 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, he would have been 100 today. I love Fred Astaire but if I had to choose between the two I would pick Gene Kelly as my favourite. There was something so charming about him, from the innovative dancing to the devilish smile to the "Irish whiskey tenor voice" as he called it.

When I was a kid I was fortunate enough to see him emcee a special event for the San Francisco Ballet. I will never forget when he stepped out on stage. He was an old man by then but for me he was still the young, energetic dancer whose films I had watched over and over, mesmerized by his every move.

Here is one of his more creative dance scenes from Summer Stock (1950). With only a creaking board and newspaper as props, it’s pure genius, just like the man.

An American in Paris

This is one of my favourite movie apartments—Gene Kelly's tiny garret in An American in Paris. Isn't it delightful? Have a wonderful weekend.