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Bob Fosse Headshot

Bob Fosse

Date of Death: September 23, 1987 (60)

Birth Place: Chicago, Illinois, USA

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BIO

Bob Fosse was an American actor, choreographer, dancer, and film and stage director. He directed and choreographed musical works on stage and screen, including the stage musicals The Pajama Game (1954), Damn Yankees (1955), How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (1961), Sweet Charity (1966), Pippin (1972), and Chicago (1975). He directed the films Sweet Charity (1969), Cabaret (1972), Lenny (1975), All That Jazz (1979), and Star 80 (1983).



Fosse's distinctive style of choreography included turned-in knees and "jazz hands". He is the only person ever to have won Oscar, Emmy, and Tony awards in the same year (1973). He was nominated for four Academy Awards, winning Best Director for Cabaret, and won the Palme D'Or in 1980 for All That Jazz. He won a record eight Tonys for his choreography, as well as one for direction for Pippin.

Photos

STAGE CREDITS

[Broadway]
City Center Revival, 1963
Joey Evans

[Broadway]
Broadway Revival, 1952
Joey Evans (Understudy)

[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1950
Boy in "Dance Me A Song"

Dufo

Adam

Harpo Marx

"Finale" Performer

"It's The Weather" Dancer

"It's The Weather" Singer

Productions

 
[Broadway, 2023]
Choreographer
 
[Off-Broadway, 2008]
Choreographer
 
[West End, 2000]
Choreographer
 
[Broadway, 1999]
Choreographer
 
[Broadway, 1996]
Director
Choreographer
 
[Broadway, 1986]
Director
Director/Choreographer
Choreographer
 
[Broadway, 1986]
Choreographer
Director
Director/Choreographer
 
[US Tour, 1986]
Director/Choreographer
 
[West End, 1983]
Director/Choreographer
 
[Broadway, 1978]
Choreographer
Director/Choreographer
Director
 
[Broadway, 1975]
Choreographer
Director
Director/Choreographer
 
[Broadway, 1974]
Director
Choreographer
 
[Broadway, 1972]
Director
Choreographer
Director/Choreographer
 
[West End, 1967]
Director/Choreographer
 
[Broadway, 1966]
Choreographer
Director/Choreographer
Director
 
[Broadway, 1965]
Director/Choreographer
 
[West End, 1964]
Director
Choreographer
 
[Broadway, 1962]
Choreographer
Director
 
[Broadway, 1959]
Director/Choreographer
 
[US Tour, 1959]
Director/Choreographer
 
[West End, 1957]
Director/Choreographer
 
[Broadway, 1957]
Choreographer
Choreographer
 
[Broadway, 1956]
Choreographer
Director/Choreographer
 
[West End, 1955]
Choreographer
 
[Broadway, 1955]
Choreographer
 
[US Tour, 1955]
Choreographer
 
[Broadway, 1954]
Choreographer

Writing

Bookwriter
Bookwriter
Conceiver

Awards and Nominations


winner
Olivier Awards - 2001 - Best Theatre Choreographer

Bob FosseFosse

Helen Hayes Awards - 1988 - Outstanding Director, Non-Resident Production

Bob FosseSweet Charity


winner
Drama League Awards - 1986 - Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre

Bob Fosse


winner
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 1986 - Best Choreography

Bob Fosse, Big Deal


winner
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 1986 - Best Choreography

Bob Fosse, Sweet Charity

Tony Awards - 1986 - Best Book of a Musical

Bob Fosse, Big Deal


winner
Tony Awards - 1986 - Best Choreography

Bob Fosse , Big Deal

Tony Awards - 1986 - Best Direction of a Musical

Bob Fosse, Big Deal

Tony Awards - 1986 - Best Direction of a Musical

Bob Fosse, Big Deal

Olivier Awards - 1979 - Musical of the Year

Bob Fosse, Chicago


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1978 - Outstanding Choreography

Bob Fosse, Dancin'


winner
Tony Awards - 1978 - Best Choreography

Bob Fosse, Dancin'

Tony Awards - 1978 - Best Direction of a Musical

Bob Fosse, Dancin'

Tony Awards - 1976 - Best Book of a Musical

Bob Fosse, Chicago

Tony Awards - 1976 - Best Choreography

Bob Fosse, Chicago

Tony Awards - 1976 - Best Direction of a Musical

Bob Fosse, Chicago


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1973 - Outstanding Director

Bob Fosse, Pippin


winner
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 1973 - Best Director

Bob Fosse, Pippin


winner
Tony Awards - 1973 - Best Choreography

Bob Fosse, Pippin


winner
Tony Awards - 1973 - Best Direction of a Musical

Bob Fosse , Pippin


winner
Tony Awards - 1966 - Best Choreography

Bob Fosse, Sweet Charity

Tony Awards - 1966 - Best Direction of a Musical

Bob Fosse, Sweet Charity

Tony Awards - 1964 - Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical

Bob Fosse, Pal Joey


winner
Tony Awards - 1963 - Best Choreography

Bob Fosse, Little Me

Tony Awards - 1963 - Best Direction of a Musical

Bob Fosse, Little Me


winner
Tony Awards - 1959 - Best Choreography

Bob Fosse, Redhead

Tony Awards - 1958 - Best Choreography

Bob Fosse, New Girl In Town

Tony Awards - 1957 - Best Choreography

Jerome Robbins , Bells Are Ringing


winner
Tony Awards - 1956 - Best Choreography

Bob Fosse, Damn Yankees


winner
Tony Awards - 1955 - Best Choreography

Bob Fosse, The Pajama Game

Videos

News


All-City Musical To Present CHICAGO: Teen Edition
by A.A. Cristi - Feb 22, 2025

All-City Musical has announced its much-anticipated return to the stage with a dazzling production of CHICAGO. This remarkable showcase of student talent will take place at the Mimi Ohio Theatre at Playhouse Square, from Friday, March 21 through Sunday, March 23, 2025.
Dylis Croman and Rema Webb Will Join the Cast of CHICAGO
by Stephi Wild - Feb 13, 2025

The Broadway company of Chicago will welcome back Dylis Croman in the role of “Roxie Hart” and will welcome to the cell block Rema Webb in the role of “Matron Mama Morton” for a limited run beginning Monday, February 24.
Ben Vereen, Christine Pedi, and Tony Yazbeck to Join York Theatre Spring Gala
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 12, 2025

The York Theatre will present their Spring Gala, a special one-night-only concert featuring Ben Vereen, Christine Pedi, and Tony Yazbeck. Learn more about the event and see how to purchase tickets.
LIZA: A TRULY TERRIFIC ABSOLUTELY TRUE STORY to Air on PBS
by Josh Sharpe - Feb 11, 2025

Discover the life of Broadway legend Liza Minnelli in 'Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story,' premiering on PBS April 1 at 9 PM ET as part of the American Masters series. The documentary explores Minnelli's 1970s career and personal life with insights from friends and mentors.
Student Blog Introduction: Joe Shoen
by Student Blogger: Joe Shoen - Feb 11, 2025

Meet Joe Shoen, One of our student bloggers for the Fall/Winter season! Read about his experience in the performing arts and learn about the newest production he has taken on.
Video: Jessica Winter Releases New Single ‘L.O.V.E.’
by Josh Sharpe - Feb 10, 2025

Alt-pop provocateur Jessica Winter has released her incredible new single and music video, ‘L.O.V.E.’, out now. It is her first solo music release since her exceptional and critically acclaimed 2023 EP, Limerence. Watch the music video here!
Detour Productions Will Host World Premiere of POMPEII
by Stephi Wild - Feb 10, 2025

Detour Productions has announced the world premiere of POMPEII, a bold new performance blending dance, drag, and theatrical spectacle. Learn more here!
Interview: How Director Bruce David Klein Captured the Real Liza Minnelli for His New Documentary
by Josh Sharpe - Feb 4, 2025

With the new Liza Minnelli documentary now in theaters, BroadwayWorld sat down with director Bruce David Klein to discuss his approach to the film, his relationship with Liza the person, and why he is drawn to the world of show business.
Sophie Carmen-Jones Will Join CHICAGO on Broadway
by Stephi Wild - Jan 30, 2025

The Broadway production of Chicago will welcome Sophie Carmen-Jones in the role of “Velma Kelly” beginning Monday, February 10. Learn more about her here!
Video: Liza Minnelli Talks About Father Vincente in LIZA: A TRULY TERRIFIC ABSOLUTELY TRUE STORY Clip
by Josh Sharpe - Jan 29, 2025

In a clip from Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story, Broadway legend Liza Minnelli recalls her father Vincente, who directed many iconic movie musicals. Watch the clip now!
Erika Jayne Extends Run in CHICAGO on Broadway
by Stephi Wild - Jan 28, 2025

Erika Jayne has extended her return engagement in Chicago on Broadway! The singer, actress and TV sensation known for Bravo's “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” will play “Roxie Hart” on Broadway for an additional two weeks.
CONFESSIONS OF A RETIRED WITCH to Debut at The Studio at Mizner Park
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jan 27, 2025

D’Jamin Bartlett, the award-winning actress who made her Broadway debut singing “The Miller’s Son” in Stephen Sondheim’s A Little Night Music, will present Confessions of a Retired Witch at The Studio at Mizner Park. Learn how to attend.
Liza Minnelli Documentary Begins Regional Screenings
by Josh Sharpe - Jan 23, 2025

LIZA: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story is beginning to screen at select locations in the United States. Beginning January 24, the movie will open at IFC Center New York City, and on January 31 will open at Laemmle’s Royal in Los Angeles.
Janette Manrara Joins CHICAGO UK and Ireland Tour
by Stephi Wild - Jan 23, 2025

Former Strictly Come Dancing professional and TV Presenter Janette Manrara will join the UK and Ireland tour of CHICAGO as Roxie Hart, making her musical theatre debut.
John Tartaglia, Marcia Milgrom Dodge, Rob Ruggiero & More Join The Muny 107th Season
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jan 17, 2025

The Muny has revealed the teams of directors, choreographers, music directors and lead designers whose creative visions will bring the theatre’s bold 2025 season to life. Learn more about the upcoming season!
Review: BERLIN BERLIN at Museumsquartier WIen
by Martin Ganeider - Jan 17, 2025

The critically acclaimed revue is hitting the road and stopping in Vienna for a strictly limited run. Ages ago, Berlin was the center of the world, with its Night Clubs, Bars, and the famous Admiralspalast with its Conférenciers the Variety 'Admiral' (played by Simon Stockinger, well-deserved Winner of the 2024 BroadwayWorld Austria Award for  Best Supporting Performer in a Musical). It has been a time full of good music, loads of dancing, liquor, and huge Variety shows; the world danced through Berlin and the doors into the Admiralspalast, the world's melting pot, where everyone wanted to be a part of.
Centenary Stage Company Now Accepting Applicants For Spring 2025 Session Of Young Performers Workshop
by A.A. Cristi - Jan 14, 2025

Centenary Stage Company’s Young Performer’s Workshop returns for this spring from February 15 through June 1, and the deadline to apply is February 14.
Review: Hannah Jane's LADY LEGENDS OF BROADWAY Is a Fantastic Showcase at Green Room 42
by Analisa Bell - Jan 12, 2025

Hannah Jane shines in 'Lady Legends of Broadway' at Green Room 42. She had the audience captivated from the moment she stepped on stage. With her talent, charisma, and deep understanding of Broadway’s rich history, she’s certainly one to watch.
Review: CHICAGO: THE MUSICAL at Kauffman Theater
by Alan Portner - Jan 10, 2025

Chicago, the Musical, now playing at the Kauffman Center for Performing Arts, is a super evening out for you and your significant other.  It is a welcome respite from our incredible snow event last weekend. 
The Donald M. Ephraim Sun & Stars International Film Festival to Return in January
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jan 9, 2025

The Donald M. Ephraim Sun & Stars International Film Festival will return for its third season with screenings at the Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. Learn more about the programming!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many Broadway shows has Bob Fosse been in?

Bob Fosse has appeared on Broadway in 3 shows.

How many West End shows has Bob Fosse been in?

Bob Fosse has not appeared in the West End

What awards has Bob Fosse been nominated for?

Bob Fosse has been nominated for several awards throughout his career. He was nominated for Best Theatre Choreographer at the Olivier Awards for "Fosse". He received a nomination for Outstanding Director, Non-Resident Production at the Helen Hayes Awards for "Sweet Charity". Fosse also received the Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre award at the Drama League Awards. At the Outer Critics Circle Awards, he was nominated for Best Choreography for both "Sweet Charity" and "Big Deal". Fosse was also nominated for Best Book of a Musical, Best Choreography, and Best Direction of a Musical at the Tony Awards for "Big Deal". For "Chicago", Fosse's work earned him the Musical of the Year award at the Olivier Awards. He was also nominated for Outstanding Choreography at the Drama Desk Awards and Best Choreography and Best Direction of a Musical at the Tony Awards for "Dancin'". Fosse received nominations for Best Book of a Musical, Best Choreography, and Best Direction of a Musical at the Tony Awards for "Chicago". He was nominated for Outstanding Director at the Drama Desk Awards and Best Director at the Outer Critics Circle Awards for "Pippin". Other nominations include Best Choreography at the Tony Awards for "Sweet Charity", Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical at the Tony Awards for "Pal Joey", and Best Choreography and Best Direction of a Musical at the Tony Awards for "Little Me". Fosse's choreography was also recognized with nominations for Best Choreography at the Tony Awards for "Redhead", "New Girl In Town", "Bells Are Ringing", "Damn Yankees", and "The Pajama Game".

What awards has Bob Fosse won?

Bob Fosse, the renowned choreographer and director, has received numerous awards throughout his career. Some of his notable accolades include the Best Theatre Choreographer at the Olivier Awards for "Fosse," the Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre at the Drama League Awards, and the Best Choreography at the Outer Critics Circle Awards for "Big Deal" and "Sweet Charity." Fosse also won the Best Choreography at the Tony Awards for "Big Deal," "Dancin'," "Pippin," "Sweet Charity," "Little Me," "Redhead," "Damn Yankees," and "The Pajama Game." In addition to his choreography awards, Fosse was recognized as the Outstanding Director at the Drama Desk Awards for "Pippin" and received the Best Director at the Outer Critics Circle Awards for the same production. He also won the Best Direction of a Musical at the Tony Awards for "Pippin."

How many shows has Bob Fosse written?

Bob Fosse has written 3 shows including Sweet Charity (Conceiver), Chicago (Bookwriter), Big Deal (Bookwriter).

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