It's been said that America gave the world two thoroughly original art forms: jazz and the movie musical. The 1930's saw the newly born genre of the Hollywood musical blossom with artistry and variety never before imagined. For many film-goers the Hollywood musical gave them escape and hope during the troubled years of the Great Depression. Highlights of this programme include the magic of director/choreographer Busby Berkeley, as his eye-popping, sexy production numbers moved to the forefront of the genre. The screen partnership of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers brought sizzling romance to the screen. The style and grace of these perfect partners was unprecedented. Musical child stars such as Jane Withers, Deanna Durbin, Judy Garland, Mickey Rooney and the biggest, little-star of the decade, Shirley Temple, brightened the doldrums of the depression. The musical ladies of 20th-Century Fox are profiled, including Sonja Henie, Betty Grable and that superstar of song, Alice Faye. Dancers such as Eleanor Powell, Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, the Nicholas Brothers and James Cagney tap their way into America's hearts. Singing cowboys like Gene Autry and Roy Rogers burst upon the scene creating an entirely new genre, the musical western...Musical fantasies such as the crown jewel of the decade, "The Wizard of Oz", hit the silver screen. Includes clips and extended interviews and stories from Debbie Reynolds, Dorn Leluise, Donald Saddler and Gloria Stuart.
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