Michael Bennett
Michael Bennett: A Dancer's Legacy
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Michael Bennett was born on May 8, 1943, in Buffalo, New York. He is commonly known as Mike Bennett.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born: May 8, 1943
Died: July 2, 1987 (age 44)
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Michael Bennett was an American dancer, choreographer, director, actor, and producer. He is best known for his work in the theater industry.
Early Life and Background
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Growing up in Buffalo, New York, Michael Bennett was exposed to music and dance from a young age. His mother, Frances Bennett, was a dancer who introduced him to various art forms. Bennett's early interest in dance led him to study at the Boston University's School of Fine Arts.
Major Accomplishments
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Michael Bennett is renowned for his work on Broadway musicals, particularly A Chorus Line (1975), which he co-created and choreographed. The show won nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Choreographer. Bennett also worked on other notable productions, such as Coat of Many Colors, Promises, Promises, and Seesaw.
Notable Works or Actions
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Bennett's innovative approach to dance and storytelling earned him numerous awards and accolades. He was one of the first artists to bring the concept of "dance as an art form" to Broadway. Bennett's collaborations with other creatives, such as composer Marvin Hamlisch and lyricist Edward Kleban, resulted in some of his most notable works.
Impact and Legacy
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Michael Bennett's impact on the theater industry cannot be overstated. He paved the way for future generations of dancers, choreographers, and directors. His commitment to creating authentic stories through dance inspired many, including fellow artists like Bob Avian and Susan Stroman. A Chorus Line, in particular, remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Michael Bennett's quotes on the importance of collaboration, storytelling, and innovation have become a guiding light for many artists. His legacy extends beyond his productions; he inspired a new era of creative expression in theater and dance. As a true pioneer in his field, Bennett continues to be celebrated as one of the most influential figures in American musical theater.
With his unwavering dedication to artistic excellence and innovative storytelling, Michael Bennett left an enduring mark on the world of dance and theater. His work remains a testament to his vision, creativity, and perseverance.
Quotes by Michael Bennett
Michael Bennett's insights on:
Don’t feel guilty. Do something to make it better. Help us heal by standing – or sitting – alongside us.
If you can tolerate the humiliation and helplessness and admit that you’re an out-of-control fuckup, it frees you from expectations that you can’t possibly meet, promises you can’t keep, and appearances you can’t maintain; it liberates you from the ensuring cycle of endless failure.
By not standing, I wanted to honor the founding principles of this country – the freedom of self-expression, liberty, and the equal opportunity to pursue happiness – and challenge us to try to reach those goals.
Being here five years, I just wish I can go out in the stands and pretty much just shake everybody's hand and just thank them for their support and just continue on. Like I say, it's definitely going to be tough.
I probably would have voted against Justice Thomas, and, and, and I've been disappointed by what Justice Roberts has done.
I'm trying to do what the President said and only get it when I need it. But I think I need it.
It's definitely been an emotional day for me all day. I counted my steps coming in off the field from the beginning of the tunnel to here. I was in tears. It was tough. It means so much to me, being a Viking for five years. Hopefully, I've got some more time here, but I've got to look at the overall picture. It was a good way to go out, if it was indeed my final game here.
It's hard to just sit back and watch. I've never done that before. (The coaches say), 'You're going to have a big week this week,' and you practice well, and you're in the game plan, and then you only get your number called two or three times.
It's going to be like a playoff atmosphere, ... The Giants' fans are very rowdy, but we're just going to have to continue to improve on the little things. We need to take this show on the road and hope things continue.