Gene Kelly is a legend of the heyday of the Hollywood musical. His name stands for masterpieces such as "Singin' in the Rain" and "An American in Paris". As a singer, dancer, actor, choreographer and director, he was a true all-round artist who revolutionized the world of dance in particular. Kelly, who loved to experiment, explored new forms of dance expression and helped a whole generation of young talents to fame. From his beginnings in cabarets and on Broadway to his recognition as a choreographer and director, the documentary shows how the good-looking star with a charming smile expanded the boundaries of dance expression: He danced in the open air in the streets of New York, with a cartoon character or his own reflection. But this dazzling entertainer image should not obscure the fact that Kelly, as a staunch supporter of the American civil rights movement, also saw dancing as a political statement.
Pianist-singer Michael Feinstein leads a tour through American musical history, from the jazz days of the 1920s through the music of World War II and on into the 1950s and '60s, with the advent of rock 'n' roll. In his quest to celebrate some of America's finest composers, he touches on the works of George and Ira Gershwin, Richard Rodgers, Harold Arlen and Johnny Mercer. The passionate preservationist shares personal stories of his efforts to save America's musical heritage, as well as anecdotes about composers and lyricists he's worked with over the years.
Composer and musician Neil Brand presents a series on musical theatre evolution over the last century.
A detailed documentary that delves into the rich history of the renowned musical 'The Fantasticks', showcasing its impact and influence on the world of theater.
Rock Milestones: Led Zeppelin's IV zeroes in on Zeppelin's fourth LP, an untitled effort that shot to the top of the charts upon release circa November 8, 1971, and single-handedly shaped the landscape of hard rock over the ensuing decade. Rock Milestones: Led Zeppelin's IV goes behind the scenes to investigate why -- and how -- this album became a decades-long phenomenon and the inestimable impact it made on American music and pop culture in particular.
"SIX" is a British musical comedy written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss. It is a modern retelling of the lives of the six wives of Henry VIII, presented in the form of a pop concert. In the show, each of the wives: Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anna of Cleves, Katherine Howard, and Catherine Parr; take turns telling their stories to determine who suffered the most from their common husband.
Few musicals can claim to capture the mood of a historical period as well as the 1972 classic Cabaret. Liza Minnelli's unforgettable portrayal of singer Sally Bowles and the film's stylish recreation of the era have become defining images of Weimar Berlin. In this documentary, actor Alan Cumming explores the truths behind the fiction. He meets many of those closely involved with the original film, including Liza Minnelli, and talks to cabaret artists, among them acclaimed performer Ute Lemper. Alan explores the origins of the Cabaret story in the writings of Christopher Isherwood and uncovers the story of the real life Sally Bowles, a woman very different from her fictional counterpart. He talks to the composer of Cabaret about the inspiration for the film's most famous songs and discovers the stories of the original composers and performers, among them Marlene Dietrich. Finally, Alan reveals the tragic fate of many of the cabaret artists at the hands of the Nazis.
E! Entertainment presents a special episode dedicated to the life and career of pop superstar Christina Aguilera. From her early years in the industry to her rise to international fame, this documentary explores the highs and lows of Aguilera's journey as a music icon.
Following his duel with Alexander Hamilton, Vice President Aaron Burr devises a plan to lead the first secession in US history.
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