Born on December 2, 1946, in Denver, Colorado, Lynne Aileen Taylor-Corbett displayed a passion for dance from an early age. After completing high school, her ambition led her to New York City, where she trained at the prestigious School of American Ballet. Despite her aspirations to become a ballet dancer, Taylor-Corbett faced the harsh reality that her physique and temperament didn’t align with the rigid demands of classical ballet. Reflecting on this transition, she once mentioned in an interview, “I was never really suited to be a ballet dancer, but I had a gift for theatricality and movement.” This acknowledgment of her strengths in expressive dance opened new doors for her career and set the stage for her ultimate success as a choreographer.
Emergence as a Choreographer
Lynne Taylor-Corbett’s career took off in the early 1980s, as she found her niche in the banquet of dance styles that Broadway and modern theatrical productions offered. Her early work included collaborations with renowned companies such as the American Ballet Theatre and the City Ballet. This period also saw Taylor-Corbett receiving commissions from notable dance ensembles like Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, cementing her status as an influential choreographer. Her Broadway introduction occurred in 1981 with “Shakespeare’s Cabaret,” marking the beginning of a rich tapestry of contributions to Broadway productions.
Broadway Breakthroughs
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Taylor-Corbett’s work on Broadway began to garner attention. One of her pivotal projects was the musical “Chess” in 1988, which, despite its short-lived run, showcased her choreography on a major platform. By 1994, she acted as choreographer for “Sally Marr…and Her Escorts,” a production focusing on the life of comedian Lenny Bruce’s mother, featuring the iconic Joan Rivers. Perhaps her crowning achievement came with the return to Broadway in 1997 with the musical “Titanic,” a project that demanded a blend of storytelling and movement. Moreover, she created the successful show, “Swing!” in 2000, which combined classic swing music with elaborate choreography, earning her nominations for both choreography and direction and solidifying her legacy in theater.
Taylor-Corbett’s artistry crossed over into the film industry, where she made a significant impact. Her choreographic brilliance was perhaps most vividly encapsulated in the iconic dance sequence performed by Kevin Bacon in the film “Footloose” (1984). This scene not only became a cultural sensation of the era but also played a fundamental role in elevating Bacon’s career as a leading man in Hollywood. Taylor-Corbett would go on to choreograph dance sequences for several other films, including “My Blue Heaven” (1990), “Vanilla Sky” (2001), and “Bewitched” (2005). Each project further showcased her remarkable ability to blend choreography with storytelling in a manner that resonated with audiences.
On January 12, 2023, Lynne Taylor-Corbett passed away due to breast cancer, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond her choreographic accomplishments. She is survived by her son, Shaun Taylor-Corbett, along with several sisters, who are left to carry on the spirit of creativity and passion she instilled in those around her. Even as the curtain falls on her life, her influence can still be felt throughout the realms of theater and film. Taylor-Corbett’s ability to create movements that encapsulate emotion and narrative continues to inspire choreographers and dancers alike. Her journey reminds us of the importance of resilience and adaptability in the pursuit of one’s passion, a testament to the mark she left on the world of performing arts. Lynne Taylor-Corbett will always be remembered as a pivotal figure who not only shaped Broadway and film but also set the stage for future generations of artists.
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