Wednesday, May 5, 2010

DEBBIE REYNOLDS TELL ME TRUE

This is a Debbie Reynolds dance costume worn by her in the MGM musical "Give a Girl A Break". The gown was designed by the wonderful Helen Rose in 1953. The dance costume consist of a yellow chiffon top and cream chiffon skirt with multiple ruffled layers of underskirt.



The gown is used in a wonderful dance sequence with the legendary dancer and choreographer Bob Fossee. The production number was unique in that it was filed in reverse to allow Reynolds and Fosse the opportunity to look like they were un- popping balloons during the dance sequence. They look amazing in this sequence directed by Stanley Donen and choreography by Gower Champion. A great piece of MGM musical History.



Ms Reynolds in her own right should be noted as a prolific collector and preserver of Hollywood history and has managed to collect some wonderful treasures not only from her days at MGM but from every major studio. A great lady and a wonderful collector. I had the pleasure of meeting her once on her tour and talking ever so briefly in relation to costumes and collecting. I wish it could have been longer!

Here is the dance number in which the costume appears!


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