History Quiz: Gwen Verdon
1. Name the famous scene from Damn Yankees! (1958) in which Gwen Verdon danced with Bob Fosse.
2. What was her invaluable trademark?
3. True or False: Verdon developed rickets as a youngster and was put into dance class to improve her shaky legs.
4. With whom did she become an obedient disciple of, serving as both a dancer and model on which he set work, after seeing his company perform in a Los Angeles nightclub?
5. Verdon caught the eye of New York City producer Cy Feuer, who convinced her to return to the East Coast to dance in what show? (Hint: Her supporting role in this show became a critical favorite and won her a Tony Award.)
6. What famous dancer claims that Verdon “cut my destiny”?
7. Fosse and Verdon’s first meeting was indicative of their work and personal relationship to come: Fosse the _________________, Verdon the _________________ ____________________.
8. The sassy, iconic role of _____________________ became Verdon’s signature, and earned her another Tony Award.
9. Name three original Fosse hits that she starred in.
10. True or False: Fosse and Verdon divorced shortly after having a daughter.
Answer Key
1. “Who’s Got the Pain” 2. Her sexy humor: She was a lady who was one of the boys, but also an object of desire for all men. 3. True 4. Jack Cole 5. Can Can 6. Chita Rivera 7. Creator; perfect vehicle 8. Lola, Damn Yankees! 9. Damn Yankees!, Chicago, Sweet Charity, New Girl in Town and/or Redhead 10. False: Fosse and Verdon never divorced. Instead they continued as collaborative partners with a unique, creative simpatico.
