Film Society at Lincoln Center Celebrates Gene Kelly; Patricia Ward Kelly Offers "An Intimate Portrait" July 20

By Michael Gioia
19 Jul 2012

Gene Kelly
Gene Kelly

In celebration of the Gene Kelly Centennial, the Film Society at Lincoln Center offers "Invitation to the Dance: Gene Kelly @ 100" through July 26. The 23-film salute encompasses Kelly's best-known classics as well as rarely screened gems showcasing his work as a director and dramatic actor.

The series also features a two-night special event, "Celebrating an American Legend," presented by Kelly's widow, Patricia Ward Kelly, who paints an intimate behind-the-scenes portrait of her late husband in the one-woman show.

"An Intimate Portrait of Gene Kelly" will be offered July 20 at 7 PM. Here's how the event is described: "This unique live performance combines rare and familiar film clips, never released audio recordings and personal insights culled from hours of interviews with her husband. Mrs. Kelly reveals a very personal side of this American legend and his perspective on the work for which he wished to be remembered."

Following "Intimate Portrait" will be "Changing the Look of Dance on Film" July 21 at 6:30 PM. Here's how it's billed: "In this second, special evening performance, Patricia Ward Kelly explores Gene's contribution in creating a particularly American form of dance. Blending carefully chosen film clips, personal letters and telegrams and rarely heard stories, Mrs. Kelly presents an in-depth look at Gene's extraordinary innovations in the use of cinematography, choreography and animation."

Films in the "Gene Kelly @ 100" series include "An American in Paris," "Anchors Aweigh," "Brigadoon," "Cover Girl," "The Cross of Lorraine," "For Me and My Gal," "Gigot," "A Guide for the Married Man," "Hello, Dolly!," "Inherit the Wind," "Invitation to the Dance," "It's Always Fair Weather," "Les Girls," "Marjorie Morningstar," "On the Town," "The Pirate," "Summer Stock," "Take Me Out to the Ballgame," "Thousands Cheer," "The Three Musketeers," "What a Way to Go!" "Xanadu" and "The Young Girls of Rochefort."

For more information, click here.