For too long, the story of Eleanor Powell, the phenomenal tap dancer and star of classic MGM musicals, has been somewhat untold. However, a new biography, ELEANOR POWELL: BORN TO DANCE, penned by Paula Broussard and Lisa Royere, is changing that. Published by the University Press of Kentucky as part of their Screen Classics series, this meticulously researched book offers an intimate and detailed look into the life of a woman who truly was born to dance.
The authors bring a unique perspective, having both known Eleanor Powell personally. This connection infuses the biography with warmth and depth, going beyond just a factual account to paint a vivid portrait of Powell as a person. One can feel a sense of kinship with the authors’ admiration for Powell, especially when recalling how Royere’s first encounter with Powell mirrored a similar experience of discovering MGM musicals and Powell’s captivating performances. For many, including the authors, seeing Powell in films like On The Town and Summer Stock sparked a lifelong appreciation for her talent and the golden age of Hollywood musicals.
ELEANOR POWELL: BORN TO DANCE delves into the impressive career of this dance icon with fascinating detail. Musical fans will be enthralled by the in-depth exploration of her films and iconic dance numbers. The book highlights not only her incredible talent but also her strong work ethic, crucial to her success in the demanding world of Hollywood. Broussard and Royere meticulously detail Powell’s journey, revealing the dedication and perseverance that made her a star.
Beyond her professional achievements, the biography also explores Powell’s personal life. It reveals a loving woman who faced personal challenges, including her marriage to Glenn Ford. The book sensitively addresses the difficulties she encountered, including navigating a challenging marriage and later restarting her career in Las Vegas and nightclubs after a long hiatus from film. This period of reinvention showcases her resilience and determination to overcome obstacles.
Another significant aspect of Eleanor Powell’s life, thoughtfully explored in the biography, was her deep religious faith. Her commitment to her faith is highlighted through her years as a Presbyterian Sunday School teacher and her Los Angeles TV series, THE FAITH OF OUR CHILDREN. This program, remarkably progressive for its time, championed inclusivity by featuring children of all races, earning local Emmy awards and reflecting Powell’s compassionate nature.
The book also touches upon the resurgence of interest in Powell’s career following That’s Entertainment! in 1974, allowing her to witness a renewed appreciation for her contributions before her passing in 1982. Her final resting place at Hollywood Forever Cemetery serves as a testament to her enduring legacy. Despite personal hardships, Eleanor Powell’s story, as presented in BORN TO DANCE, is ultimately uplifting, celebrating a woman who achieved phenomenal success through talent, hard work, and a genuine kindness towards others.
ELEANOR POWELL: BORN TO DANCE is a substantial hardcover volume, comprising 300 pages enriched with extensive endnotes, a comprehensive bibliography, and an index. Furthermore, it features a captivating 48-page insert of 84 black and white illustrations, offering a visual complement to Powell’s remarkable life and career.
This biography, ELEANOR POWELL: BORN TO DANCE, is highly recommended for anyone interested in classic Hollywood, musical history, and the inspiring life of a true dance legend. It’s a fitting tribute to a woman who was undeniably born to dance and left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
Review copy of ELEANOR POWELL: BORN TO DANCE provided by the University Press of Kentucky.
