Rare footage on Ben Vereen. After he would finish on Broadway with Pippin, he would go to clubs and do shows like this. Choreographed by the GREAT Michael Peters.
Watching MADTV and looking up pop references that go over my head. I've learned of Fiona Apple, Tommy Tune and now Ben Vereen. People have this passion that makes it impossible to look away from their performances. Very impressive.
What a wonderful clip, thanks so much for posting. I saw Mr. Vereen perform in the 70s at the Empire Room at the Waldorf Astoria. I'll never forget seeing him live, in such a small venue. (Granted, the small spaces restrict his ability to move, but you still get a taste for his magic as a dancer and performer.) This brings back so many memories. A treasure.
Very cool person! A friend of mine teaches at Cornish College in Seattle and Ben Vareen will be the guest of honor at their 2016 senior graduation commencement . This guy is amazing as a performer!
Disney's movie "Fantasia 2000" has the same Gershwin tune in it, and I kept thinking this is Ben Vereen's dance interpretation of that song, just like the Disney one is the animation interpretation of this song.
Mr.Vereen is most likely a very sincere and a warm and wonderful human being, seems so nice and big hearted.. and that beginning piece about dance and nature was entrancing.. but I guess I just dont get his style when he starts dancing and singing. doesnt appeal to me. and its too bad, because he seems like such a sweetheart of a guy. but damn is he a giant of the stage! That dude's a star!
