Nat Horne, a name synonymous with Dance Nat in New York City, has been a fixture in Hell’s Kitchen for over six decades. You can often find him chatting with neighbors on the stoop of his apartment, a place he’s called home since the 1950s. In this exclusive interview, this dancer, choreographer, and teacher shares his remarkable West Side Story, reflecting on his journey from aspiring dancer to a Broadway and Alvin Ailey icon.
From Richmond to Broadway: The Dance Journey Begins
What’s your New York story? Were you born here, or did you arrive later?
I came to New York from Richmond, Virginia, in 1954. My heart was set on becoming a dancer, and my dream was to perform on Broadway. My father, a pastor, didn’t quite share my enthusiasm for a dance career. So, one Sunday, while everyone was at church, I decided to make my move. My brother Robinson was incredibly supportive, telling me, “if you’re going to leave, now is the time.” I left with another pastor from Richmond who was visiting New York. He noticed my two suitcases and jokingly asked if I was planning a long stay. I simply told him, “you know I like to change clothes.” Little did he know, I was embarking on a lifelong dance adventure.
Finding His Feet: Early Dance Training and Broadway Dreams
What was your first job, and what are you doing now?
I started my professional dance training a bit later in life, in my 20s. I took classes with Orest Sergievsky, a brilliant Russian ballet teacher, who generously offered me a scholarship. His studio was on 54th Street, a second-floor space filled with aspiring dancers. To help out, I used to clean the studio. Mr. Sergievsky noticed and told me, “I didn’t give you a scholarship to clean the studio.” He encouraged me to focus solely on my dance and use any money I had to train with other notable teachers as well. Following his advice, I began studying with Matt Mattox and Aubrey Hitchens. Aubrey Hitchens founded The Negro Dance Theatre in 1954, and I became a part of that company, exploring both ballet and modern dance. But my Broadway dream was always there, burning bright. In 1957, that dream became reality when I landed my first Broadway show, Jamaica, starring the legendary Lena Horne. It was during Jamaica that I met Alvin Ailey, which led to my joining the original Alvin Ailey Company – a pivotal moment in my dance nat career.
Nat Horne in his apartment
Now, at 94, I’m thoroughly enjoying life! The passion for performance is still very much alive. I’m currently working with Benjamin Magnuson of Clockwork Pictures on a documentary about my life and my journey in dance nat. I’m also rehearsing for a new video with Erin Lee and Friends, a delightful YouTube channel for children run by my neighbor Erin Lee. She convinced me to become a regular guest, and I find myself singing songs and telling stories for kids, which is a joy.
A Judy Garland Serenade: A Quintessential New York Moment
What’s your favorite New York minute (or moment) so far?
One unforgettable moment happened when I was working on The Sammy Davis Jr. Show while also performing in Golden Boy with Sammy Davis Jr. on Broadway at the Majestic Theatre. Rehearsals for Sammy’s show were up on 57th Street. Sammy had a policy of hiring Black dancers for only one project at a time to spread opportunities, which was incredibly fair of him. However, I was somehow cast in both the TV show and the Broadway production. One day, rushing from Sammy Davis Jr. to Golden Boy, I was desperately trying to make curtain call, convinced I’d be late. Just then, a limousine pulled up beside me, and a voice called out, “Nat Horne, is that YOU? Where are you going?” It was Judy Garland, leaning out the window and calling to me! I explained my predicament, fearing I’d be late for the theatre. She simply said, “Get in!”
Black & white photo of Nat Horne in the Broadway production of Jamaica with Lena Horne
I hopped into the limo, squeezed between Judy and her husband. I remember her arm resting on my leg as we sped towards the theatre. We arrived just as the theatre crowd was gathering. As I got out, I called out, “Bye, Judy!” The crowd erupted in gasps, “JUDY?! WHO? Judy GARLAND?” Everyone was utterly astonished, just staring at me. That was a true, magical New York moment, something I will cherish forever.
Hell’s Kitchen: More Than Just Home
Share with us why you love Hell’s Kitchen.
Hell’s Kitchen is simply home. I moved here in 1957 and have been in the same apartment ever since. Back then, I had three floors. Alvin Ailey lived upstairs, and I even let students from my dance school stay in the attic. My school, The Nat Horne School of Musical Theatre, was on 42nd Street, between Dyer and 10th Avenue, right in the heart of what became Theatre Row. That was in 1975. My partner, Al Reyes, was instrumental in securing the building, directing shows, and even putting “The Nat Horne Theatre” on the marquee. I actually didn’t want my name up there. I just wanted a school where people of all races could learn and thrive in dance nat. Growing up in racist times fueled my desire to create a space free from prejudice, a world where you could pursue your passion, your beliefs. My belief was, and still is, in musical theatre.
Nat Horne at the piano
Kindness: Nat Horne’s Real Superpower
What’s your superpower or hidden talent?
I’m not sure, so I’ll let my neighbor Erin Lee answer this one. “Kindness. An incredible group of artists came together last November at The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts to celebrate Nat as a choreographer, dancer, teacher, pioneer, activist, and the world’s best neighbor. ‘A Night With Nat’ featured luminaries like Norm Lewis (Phantom of the Opera), Jill Paice (Matilda), Angela Gaylor (Hairspray), and Penny Fuller (Applause), accompanied by Julie McBride (Moulin Rouge) and hosted by Harrison Lee. Students from The Ailey School even performed Alvin Ailey’s Blues Suite, which Nat first danced in 1958, and Jamal Story recreated Nat’s 1975 piece In The Evening When the Sun Goes Down.”
“But the most remarkable thing was the immediate and enthusiastic response when we asked these incredible performers to participate. Everyone said ‘Yes!’ instantly and then asked, ‘When is it?’ Nat’s kindness throughout his 60 years in the business meant people flew in from across the globe, rearranged film and concert schedules, doing everything they could to be there for him. Kindness truly is his superpower.”
A Life Filled with Love and Dance
What else should we know about you?
I simply love life. I love living, and I deeply love my career. And of course, I love dance nat. It’s been the driving force and passion of my life.
Nat’s Favorite Hell’s Kitchen Haunts
My Stoop – W47th Street (between 9th & 10th Ave)
I absolutely love sitting on my stoop. Watching the world go by, chatting with people, having conversations with my neighbors – it brings me so much joy. I cherish the sense of community on my block.
Nat Horne on his stoop chatting with friendsalt: Nat Horne, a seasoned dance professional, engages in friendly conversation with neighbors on his Hell’s Kitchen stoop, embodying community spirit.
Vice Versa – 325 W51st Street (between 8th/9th Ave)
Stefano Terzi and Franco Lazzari, former neighbors and wonderful people, own Vice Versa. It’s a fantastic restaurant on 51st Street. I have a great fondness for them – and the food is absolutely delicious!
Galaxy Diner – 665 9th Ave (corner W46th St)
Galaxy Diner is another favorite spot. The people there are so kind, the food is consistently good, and the space is clean and welcoming. I love going there, often with friends.
Nat Horne sitting in Galaxy Diner with the owneralt: Nat Horne, a celebrated figure in dance nat, enjoys a meal at Galaxy Diner with the owner, highlighting his local community connections.
Erik’s Barber Shop – 660 10th Ave (between W46th/47th St)
I always get a great haircut at Erik’s Barber Shop. I need to visit again soon.
The Landmark Tavern – 626 11th Ave (corner W46th St)
The Landmark Tavern is a true Hell’s Kitchen institution, even older than me, with an incredible history. Michael and Donnchadh are wonderful hosts, and the food is excellent. I always enjoy my time there.
Nams Nail Spa – 642 10th Ave (between W45th/46th St)
They take such good care of me at Nams Nail Spa, and I love how they do my nails. Once, they even painted them blue! I received so many compliments.
Nat Horne getting a manicure at Namsalt: Dance nat icon Nat Horne indulges in a manicure at Nam’s Nail Spa, showcasing his vibrant personality and Hell’s Kitchen lifestyle.
Final Words of Wisdom
Anything else you’d like to tell us?
Always respect and be kind to everyone, regardless of who they are. Love them, respect them, and honor them. These are the values that have guided me through life and my dance nat career.
*Editor’s Note: It’s a fascinating Hell’s Kitchen coincidence that Nat Horne, Alvin Ailey, and famous crime scene photographer Weegee all lived in the same building during the same period!
Nat Horne posing ina a sailor outfit with cigarettealt: Vintage photo of Nat Horne, a dynamic figure in dance nat history, posing in a sailor outfit, reflecting his early career days.
Old image Nat Horne Musical Theatre Building on W42nd Streetalt: Historic image of the Nat Horne Musical Theatre Building on W42nd Street, a landmark institution in dance nat education and performance.
Nat Horne dancing in a studioalt: Action shot of Nat Horne, a master of dance nat, captured in his element during a studio session, highlighting his lifelong dedication to movement.
Alvin, Minnie & Nat posing for cameraalt: Archival photograph of dance nat pioneers Alvin Ailey, Minnie Marshall, and Nat Horne, together representing a significant era in American dance.
To delve deeper into Nat’s incredible journey as a dancer, visit Nat Horne Biography. If you know someone with a compelling West Side Story (or wish to nominate yourself), please use this form — w42st.info/WSSnominations. Explore more West Side Stories and local recommendations on W42ST’s Hell’s Kitchen Local App.
