|
This
three-day residential conference at Oxford University was the first
ever devoted to an examination of Astaire’s life and legacy, to a
celebration of his unique artistry and achievement. In addition to
our special guests, Ava Astaire McKenzie (daughter of Fred Astaire)
and her husband Richard, the event featured an international
assembly of Astaire experts, among them writers, performers, and
historians of dance, theatre, and film.
Friends and colleagues of Mr Astaire also appeared. The programme
comprised a lively mix of scholarly papers, personal reminiscences,
panel discussions, and live performances. There also was an
exclusive screening of the only existing footage of Fred Astaire on
stage (in
Gay Divorce).
Topics discussed included: Astaire as dancer and choreographer;
as singer and recording artist; as composer and pianist; as dramatic
actor in films such as
The Sky’s the Limit and
On the Beach; Astaire’s Austrian roots; his legendary partnership with sister
Adèle; his work with African-American musicians; and his influence
on Balanchine, Robbins, and Ashton. The final day of the conference
took place in Oxford’s elegant and historic Holywell Music Room and
involved discussions of and performances inspired by various aspects
of Astaire’s extraordinary musicianship.
Opening Remarks from Dr Kathleen
Riley
'Fred Astaire
and the Art of Fun', Times Literary Supplement,
July 16, 2008
|
