Ann Reinking (Photo: lev radin / Shutterstock.com)
The theater community mourns the loss of Ann Reinking, whose Broadway career spanned more than 40 years as a performer, choreographer and director. Making her Broadway debut as a replacement in the original production of Cabaret, Reinking was a muse of legendary director/choreographer Bob Fosse and went on to choreograph and co-star in a revival of Chicago, the longest-running American musical on Broadway. She also co-directed/choreographed the tribute musical Fosse, which ran for 1,903 performances.
Reinking passed away in her sleep on December 12 while visiting family near Seattle. She was 71 years old. Her relationship with Fosse was complicated, but their professional collaborations yielded some of the best and most unique choreography of the late 20th century.
Reinking’s other Broadway performing credits include Pippin, A Chorus Line and Sweet Charity, among others. Stars of stage and screen took to social media to pay their respects and remember her contributions as a friend and colleague.
I’m beyond words to hear of the sudden passing of my dear friend #AnnReinking. Such a beautiful soul & talent. We met during the original CHICAGO & were close friends to this day. I so loved sharing the stage with her. Her spirit & #RazzleDazzle are w me always.💔 pic.twitter.com/xNP7v1hjyN
— Chita Rivera (@Chita_Rivera) December 15, 2020
One of our greatest talents & most generous artists has left this life,& is shining in the beyond. 💔I’ll never forget her kindness & the hope she gave me after some very painful times in my life. Thank you brilliant & huge hearted Annie #AnnReinking #RIP brilliant🌟🙏💫✨💖💖 https://t.co/19fqH1gvuG
— Donna Murphy (@DMurphyOfficial) December 15, 2020
