Lynne Taylor-Corbett, who passed away at the age of 78 on January 12 due to breast cancer, was a luminary in the realms of choreography and dance. Her remarkable contributions spanned Broadway, Hollywood, and beyond. In a career that began in Denver and flourished in New York, she left a profound impact that blends theatricality with movement, bridging classical training with innovative creativity.
Born Lynne Aileen Taylor in Denver on December 2, 1946, her early aspirations were firmly rooted in ballet. After graduating from high school, she sought to hone her craft at the prestigious School of American Ballet in New York City. However, her journey as a ballet dancer was not to be; she realized that not every passion translates to a professional career. In a candid reflection, Taylor-Corbett once articulated, “I was never really suited to be a ballet dancer, but I had a gift for theatricality and movement.” This self-awareness was pivotal, as it steered her towards a path that would ultimately redefine her career as a choreographer.
Her choreography debut in New York coincided with the early 1980s, where she began establishing herself among premier dance companies, including the American Ballet Theater and the New York City Ballet. Not one to remain static, Taylor-Corbett always pursued opportunities beyond the traditional dance landscape, seeking to infuse her unique style into various dance forms and settings.
Taylor-Corbett’s Broadway career took off in full bloom starting with her debut in 1981’s “Shakespeare’s Cabaret,” a project that opened the floodgates to many notable assignments. Her distinct ability to blend dance with narrative was evident in several productions, most prominently in the 1997 musical “Titanic.” Although “Titanic” enjoyed immense budget backing, its success can also be attributed to the choreography that captured the essence of the story and the emotions of the characters.
In a notable moment for Taylor-Corbett, she co-directed and choreographed the 1999 revue “Swing!” Its celebration of the jazz-swing genre sparked nostalgia while captivating audiences with vibrant, upbeat choreography. The show featured classic hits like “It Don’t Mean A Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)” and earned her Tony nominations for both choreography and direction. Such recognition highlights not only her artistic talent but also her ability to curate a performance that resonates with diverse audiences.
While Taylor-Corbett’s Broadway achievements are commendable, her influence extended into Hollywood, achieving a remarkable crossover success. One of her signature moments was her work on “Footloose” (1984), where Kevin Bacon’s electrifying dance scene became iconic. This particular sequence not only elevated the film but also solidified Taylor-Corbett’s reputation as a leading choreographer in the industry. The breathtaking choreography showcased her ability to engage viewers, making dance an integral part of storytelling.
Her choreography found its way into multiple films throughout the 1990s and 2000s. From the comedic rhythm in “My Blue Heaven” to the surreal aesthetics of “Vanilla Sky,” and even the whimsical “Bewitched,” each project reflected her versatile talent. The blend of dance with narrative emotion became a hallmark of her style, demonstrating her belief that movement could transcend mere visual appeal, imbuing stories with depth and character.
Lynne Taylor-Corbett’s legacy is cherished by many, not only for her artistic contributions but for her pioneering spirit. Survived by her son, Shaun Taylor-Corbett, as well as her five sisters, her influence on both Broadway and film continues to resonate. She demonstrated that the essence of dance could invigorate and enhance storytelling, creating unforgettable moments that linger long after the curtain falls.
As the curtain closes on her life, we reflect on the indelible mark she has left on the dance and theater community, a narrative woven with innovation, passion, and sheer brilliance. Her journey from aspiring ballerina to celebrated choreographer exemplifies the transformative power of self-discovery and determination. In remembering Lynne Taylor-Corbett, we celebrate a trailblazer whose artistry will inspire generations to come.