This is a song and dance number performed by Betty Grable, Gwen Verdon and other cast members from the 1951 film, Meet Me After The Show. Choreography for this film was by Jack Cole. Costumes by William Travila.
I writing this years after the original posting, but while I realize Gwen was the superior dancer, Betty's vivacity, and all around charisma is what made her, along with her beauty, and gorgeous games, an inspiration to many soldiers during WW2.
What's astonishing about this clip, in addition to Gwen Verdon's spectacular dancing, is that the final half is a tribute to Balanchine's LA VALSE, which premiered the same year as this film! Jack Cole must have seen the ballet, and then quickly put together this number. I don't think I can recall anything like this salute from one great choreographer to another.
Corey Aguayo That is absolutely correct Corey. I've often wanted to take snippets of Cole's work and compare. I've seen a number of moves that are considered "signature" to Monroe dance numbers done years earlier by other dancers. Fun stuff to watch, in any case!
+Bombshells Com I can see that the set is similar, but Grable doesn't do any of Monroe's moves in "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend." She merely spins or waltzes with some of the guys.
+musicaltheatergeek79 Monroe's "moves" are products of Jack Cole not her own. This dance number "I Feel Dancing" is absolutely first generation "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes." Set direction, choreography...it's all there. You can see the "signature" Monroe hand-to-collarbone move from GPB in the "No Talent Joe" number. Much of the choreography in this film was "reimagined" for GPB.
It's quite clear which of the two was the better dancer. Gwen's technique, execution, and even acting in the steps was superior. Grable had the athleticism and could do the steps but sloppy upper body with limited stretch is distracting (especially in the waltz) and she doesn't execute the moves with polish or conviction.
this piece was totally "off the wall" for Grable.. she had never done any surreal Fellini type films ...she was basically the All-American musical star....
that fact that Grable carried it off is a nod to her talent. Cole gave her a softness and line which were not Grable staples. I find it a well thought out and daring "dance drama" for a Betty Grable musical and as most Jack Cole work could stand alone. And the added plus of Gwen Verdon!!!!!!!!@@darlenelongo8589
Dos anyone else get the fact that this shows just how secure and generous Grable is in that she knows that Gwen is by far the better dancer (no other hollywood actress would even share the screen with her in a dance scene - see Mitzi Gaynor) yet she's happy to do this and comes off like a champ as always.
