Chicago 50 - No. 50 - Bob Fosse Thanks Gwen

At the 1987 Tony Awards Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon present the awards for Best Choreography and Best Director. Before announcing the winners, Bob took a moment to acknowledge that his success as a choreographer was due to the inspiration and partnership he found in Gwen Verdon. A beautiful acknowledgment of the vast body of work they created together including musicals, films, and their daughter Nicole. Despite separating in 1971, they remained close collaborators until Fosse's death in 1987. Gwen continued to stage and teach his/their work until her death in 2000.

Their work in Chicago continues to entertain audiences in the form of the 1996 revival which will celebrate 30 years on Broadway in 2026. The revival, choreographed by Ann Reinking "in the style of Bob Fosse," retains other original elements including the music, book, and lyrics. A beast of its own, the revival has its own legacy--one which I will be detailing next year so STAY TUNED!