The return of the Tune! No, I’m not talking about musical tunes. Rather, I want to discuss the long awaited return of the aptly named Tommy Tune – one of the most influence director/choreographer/performers in the history of the Great White Way. A few weeks ago, Michael Riedel wrote in the NY Post that Tune might be on the brink of making a Broadway comeback… and I say, “Yes, Please!”
Tune is a legend. In fact, he has been designated a “living landmark,” and he is now celebrating his 50th year in show business! Best known for his hit shows including Nine, My One and Only, Grand Hotel, and The Will Rogers Follies, he has racked up an impressive nine Tony Awards. As if that weren’t incredible enough, two of those Tony Awards are actually for Best Actor and Best Featured Actor. A man of seemingly endless talent, it’s not uncommon for Tune to direct, choreograph, and star in his productions.
Now, he is continuing that tradition with his new autobiographical show Steps in Time. He has been touring around the country, time-stepping his way into the hearts of the old and young alike with his incredible life story. At 74 years old, he’s still a remarkable, unparalleled performer. (You may have also noticed him from his cameo in season 4 of Arrested Development.)
Still, wouldn’t we all love to see a new big, brassy musical from Tommy Tune? Luckily, it looks we might sometime soon. According to Riedel, he’s got two projects in the works. First, he has recently caught a performance of the West End musical, Top Hat. I adored this production, and I can only hope that Tune agrees to jump on board. I’m sure he would bring a miraculous new life to the piece. Secondly, he has been developing a new musical about the history of New York’s most famous club, Studio 54. Sound familiar? Studio 54 is now converted into one of Roundabout‘s Broadway houses, and is located above the quickly growing cabaret space, 54 Below. With all the 54 love both now and in the past, it appears that this could be a project just bound to make it to NYC. At least, I’m crossing my fingers.
While we wait, binge-watching Tommy Tune clips on Youtube will just have to do. If nothing else, take a look at this video in which Tune discusses his show Steps in Time. At one point, he mentions the fact that the core of a successful musical is a strong book that is able to encapsulate the audience’s attention and emotions. Coming from someone known as a song-and-dance man, this proves that Tune is so much more than a dancer. Rather, he’s a master storyteller, and that is why Tune is a household name today. Here’s to his return!
Photo via Joy2Learn