Broadway Legend Ann Reinking Has Passed Away and Here Are Our Favorite Memories of Her

Broadway actress, choreographer, and Fosse dancer Ann Reinking passed away at the age of 71, and here’s how we would like to remember her.

Known for portraying Grace Farrell in the 1982 film Annie alongside Carol Burnett, Bernadette Peters, Aileen Quinn, and more, Reinking was one of the queens of musical theater for three decades. One of Bob Fosse’s muses, Reinking performed, directed, and choreographed iconic Broadway musicals such as A Chorus Line, Sweet Charity, Cabaret, Pippin, and Chicago. From 1962-2011, Reinking was a force in the arts that could not be stopped.

Reinking passed away this past Saturday while visiting her brother in Woodinville, Washington. Her sister in law, Darhla King, first reported the news of her death to Variety. Known for having a close relationship with famous choreographer, dancer, and director Fosse, Reinking kept his legacy alive even after his death in 1987. In 1999, she co-directed and choreographed a musical revue in his name, Fosse, and subsequently won a Tony Award for her work. In 1996, Broadway star Bebe Neuwirth commented on Reinking’s talents and according to the New York Times, said, “She simply doesn’t dance like anyone else.”

This is who I followed/watched as a young dancer. Mesmerized by every nuance and body beat. She spoke to me to like no other. #AnnReinking Forever. pic.twitter.com/e8BY7qcJQg

— Leslie Schien Verbitsky (@LesNesman5) December 15, 2020

Reinking won several awards throughout her lengthy career, including a Laurence Olivier Award for Best Choreography for her work in Fosse, a Tony Award for Best Choreography for her work in Chicago, and an Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Actress in a Musical for her work in Over Here! Since her passing, many fans have been reminiscing about her legacy and have posted their thoughts on Twitter.

My childhood is just slipping away. #AnnReinking 🙁 pic.twitter.com/REkXVb44qi

— M. (@ventingaddict) December 15, 2020

Reinking was a strong force in the musical theater industry and her work and achievements will never be forgotten. Many news outlets have written about her passing, and fellow actors and singers have expressed their sadness.

We offer our condolences to Reinking’s family and will honor the legacy she left behind.