Daily Time Capsule

January 18, 1985 - That’s Dancing! Premiered in Theaters

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Pete

Pete

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On this day, January 18, 1985, the dance documentary That’s Dancing! directed by Jack Haley Jr. premiered in theaters. This celebration of dance in cinema featured an array of legendary performers, including Mikhail Baryshnikov, Ray Bolger, Sammy Davis Jr., Gene Kelly, and Liza Minnelli.

The film paid tribute to the art of dance, showcasing iconic routines from classic films while introducing new generations to the golden age of Hollywood musicals. One of the highlights was a complete dance routine of If I Only Had a Brain by Ray Bolger, marking his final film appearance before his passing in 1987.

Despite its niche appeal, That’s Dancing! grossed $4.2 million, resonating with fans of dance and film history.

Fun Fact: Jack Haley Jr., the director of That’s Dancing!, was the son of Jack Haley, who famously played the Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz alongside Ray Bolger’s Scarecrow.

Trivia Question: What was the name of the That’s Entertainment! documentary series that preceded That’s Dancing! and celebrated the golden age of MGM musicals?
 
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