In my opinion, he was the most innovative skater ever, way ahead of his time and the judges didn’t know how to judge and score him, he was cheated out of many medals.
I have to say I’m really really really impressed with his art work. He was truly an artist. Men skaters from the 70’s were superior when it came to to their basic skating skills, that’s where the art comes from. You gotta know how to skate first, blade to ice. Not blade in air but on ice. They mastered the blade and were much more advanced technically then many of today’s skaters. Look at his spins, look at the spins of John Curry, and most of all Robin cousins. The best male spinner to ever win an Olympic gold medal and crazy powerful. They all have the same thing in common, each other. Artists driving artists. Unlike today with jumpers driving jumpers.
Он действительно мог все! Превратил обычные фотографии в произведения искусства.Как жаль что их было так мало! Надо было побольше нафотографировать и сделать выставку -Толлер Кренстон-Потрясающая была бы выставка!
An enigmatic creator, and what artist isn’t compulsive? Da Vinci carried the Mona Lisa with him for 20+ years refusing to give it to the man who commissioned the work of his wife. I find Toller compelling, articulate, with an insularity beyond anyone I know. I get it, I am somewhat that way to a lesser degree. I am not here to please anyone, and yet I care how they feel. An artist uses his medium and his vulnerability as a lifelong extension of their heart, mind and body. It is endless. I once felt deeply, dying is easy, it is a break from the compulsions and limitations and the aging in life. Fly sweet bird of eternal beauty. It is not youth I chase but personal excellence. And I fail constantly. It just just not define me. I love Toller Cranston. How complex, human, layered, contradictory and unique like a firefly that burns at 5000 watts while others burn at 5 watts. ‘Too much? Too much what?’ (As Judy Garland said to a hotel front desk, ‘I’m being difficult? Try being Judy Garland!’). Art and creativity are not occupations or careers. They are callings that never stop calling. It is exhausting! Its worth living. It is makes a life and it burns it out in equal parts. Thank you. Wonderful. I would have loved to know how the show went, financially was it enough that Toller was satisfied? What a forward thinking free spirit! Great gallery in San Miguel! Overflowing with many artist’s works on show over every single surface and wall, inside and out! Except the swimming pool. He defined the timesI was struggling young artist actor. What a great wild inspiring ‘crazy uncle to have possibly been a friend with. Deeply soul baring documentary. (I have done 1/100th the productivity in art and stage work!). I am inspired. Always shall be!
In the "Cabaret" production number, we get to see the future very prolific musical director-composer Marek Norman, and Liliane Stilwell who was in "Buddy" on Broadway, and became a long-serving Stage Manager with the Canadian Opera Company and National Ballet of Canada.
I think the first time one sees Toller skate, it is unforgettable. In the '70's, pre video tape, I remember a show coming on that reran his Olympic performance, and my level of exitement to see it again. I originally watched it with my Dad, who was much more of a hockey guy--he said Toller was the most amazing thing on ice he'd ever seen. I also remember the bio that showed his artwork and that left an impression too. In the 80's I was able to see him skate live (gracefully on the worst ice ever). He signed the back of my Hejira album for me, also gracefully, because he wasn't happy and I don't blame him. I thought the ice might turn to slush. I'm sorry I'll never be able to visit his studio. What a spectacular place it was.
He was The Gayest thing on TV, his swish ass, his extensions and positions, Christ, it was like a crucifixion every time he skated. Being in yo face like that changed things tho. I miss him.😊
The cheesy costumes! The awkward skating! The classic 'stache! Doesn't get any better, thanks for sharing. And a hearty happy 79th to Alex Trebek today, long may he reign.
Even as a child watching his skating, I knew him to be unique & special...like no one else. Therefore, it didn’t surprise me to see his incredible paintings and to want to enter that fantasy world. A primary goal of mine is to be lucky enough to own one of his paintings one day.
Я родилась в СССР, теперь наша страна называется Россия. Помню Ваши прыжки на бис в 1976 году без музыки по всему периметру ледовой арены под несмолкаемые аплодисменты ! Это было великолепно и незабываемо! Я тогда влюбилась в Вас! Спасибо!
Hi John... you wouldn't have any old footage of the "Old Smoothies" (Harrold and Irene Avery) would you? Great post though and thanks for the memories!
It was many years ago...We watched him & didn't believe that a man can dance on skates, not on the scene. I admired every minute of his skating..... He always got.....SILVER.. Thank you///I didn't know- he is not with us....
I loved and adored him when he skated, such pathos and artistry. He was beyond amazing in both his creative expressions. He touched my soul and he will forever be in my heart! Thank you so very much John Rait, for posting this magnificant documentary.
