Lynne Taylor-Corbett, a talent recognized both on Broadway and in Hollywood, has left behind an artistic legacy that resonates deeply within the worlds of dance and theater. Born on December 2, 1946, in Denver, Colorado, Taylor-Corbett was a multi-talented artist whose journey began with aspirations of becoming a ballet dancer. However, she quickly realized that her strength lay not in ballet’s rigid formality but in the expressive realm of theatrical movement. This self-awareness, coupled with her natural gift for storytelling through dance, became the foundation of her remarkable career.
After graduating high school, she ventured to New York City to pursue her passion at the esteemed School of American Ballet. Despite her early ambitions, she candidly acknowledged that ballet was not her true calling, revealing to The New York Times, “I was never really suited to be a ballet dancer.” It was this frank assessment of her abilities that propelled her toward a different kind of artistry, leading her to choreography, where she would find her unique voice.
By the early 1980s, Taylor-Corbett had made a significant impact on the dance community, already garnering attention for her work with prestigious institutions like the American Ballet Theater and the City Ballet. Her choreography showcased a distinctive blend of grace and dynamism, earning her commissions from renowned companies such as the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago.
Her Broadway journey commenced with Shakespeare’s Cabaret in 1981, setting the stage for her future endeavors. Each production served as a steppingstone, with her choreography shining through in works like The Boys of Winter and the ambitious musical Chess in 1988. A true testament to her innovative spirit was her involvement in the biographical play Sally Marr…And Her Escorts, spotlighting the life of comedian Lenny Bruce’s mother, portrayed by none other than Joan Rivers.
Taylor-Corbett’s Broadway repertoire reflects her versatility and adaptability. The ambitious production Titanic in 1997 showcased her ability to merge storytelling with movement, while the Jackie Kennedy-themed musical Jackie highlighted her flair for both character-driven and conceptual choreography. However, it was her direction and choreography for the widely acclaimed musical revue Swing! that marked her highest accolades. The show, celebrated for its vibrant swing tunes and electrifying dance routines, earned Taylor-Corbett dual nominations for her choreography and direction, solidifying her status as a leading force in theater arts.
Equally at home in Hollywood, Taylor-Corbett made a lasting impression on the silver screen. Her work was epitomized by the iconic dance scene in Footloose (1984), featuring Kevin Bacon in an unforgettable performance that would launch him into stardom. This vibrant scene, set to Kenny Loggins’ title track, became a cultural touchstone, exemplifying the 1980s dance craze. Taylor-Corbett utilized her choreography to create magic in other films, including My Blue Heaven (1990), Vanilla Sky (2001), and Bewitched (2005), merging her talents with cinematic storytelling.
Lynne Taylor-Corbett’s immense contributions to both theater and film transcend her individual projects, as she inspired countless artists and dancers worldwide. Her unique approach to choreography emphasized the importance of narrative and emotional connection in movement, allowing her to forge a deep bond with her audiences. This very essence of her dance can be seen as a reflection of her own journey—one filled with song, rhythm, and an enduring love for the art of storytelling.
As we remember Lynne Taylor-Corbett, who passed away from breast cancer on January 12 at the age of 78, we celebrate not just her achievements but the spirit she brought to every performance. Her son, Shaun Taylor-Corbett, along with her sisters, will carry her legacy forward, reminding us that art has the power to move us, connect us, and ultimately define us. Whether on the Broadway stage or the silver screen, Lynne Taylor-Corbett’s gift for movement and expression will resonate in the hearts of artists and audiences alike for generations to come.