Paul Godkin's extraordinary odyssey as a dancer began at the tender age of seven in his native Beaumont, Texas, thereby laying the foundation for a lifetime of artistic expression, which would eventually unfold in a magnificent tapestry of movement, creativity, and passion.
As a youthful and agile dancer, he was fortunate enough to embark on a thrilling adventure, traversing the vast expanse of Europe and the United States with the illustrious "Ballet Russe", an esteemed and renowned troupe, where he had the privilege of taking center stage as a soloist in the esteemed Ballet Theater, as well as captivating audiences as a concert performer, meticulously honing his craft and refining his technique through rigorous practice and dedication.
Paul's creative endeavors were temporarily set aside as he devoted himself to a noble endeavor, serving in the United States Navy for a duration of three years and six months, showcasing his unwavering dedication to his nation and his unshakeable commitment to fulfilling a higher calling.
Following the conclusion of the war, Paul redirected his attention back to his enduring passion for dance, and in the year 1948, he made his professional choreographic debut with the captivating ballet production of "Willie the Weeper", a creation specifically designed for ANTA's esteemed "Ballet Ballads" series and commissioned by the illustrious Michael Todd, a renowned figure in the entertainment industry. This marked the inception of a prolonged and highly productive collaborative partnership between Paul and Mr. Todd.
In the year 1951, the exceptional talents of Paul were once more put on full display as he took on the responsibility of arranging the dances for a truly international revue in the City of Light, Paris. This prestigious production, which boasted an impressive cast of performers, including the incomparable Colette Marchand and the legendary Maurice Chevalier, served as a shining testament to Paul's remarkable versatility, creativity, and capacity to effortlessly adapt to a wide range of settings and artistic styles.
Paul's involvement in this spectacular production further cemented his reputation as a master of his craft, and his ability to bring together diverse elements to create something truly unique and captivating. His work on this revue, which showcased the talents of some of the world's most renowned performers, was a true celebration of his skills and a testament to his unwavering dedication to his art.
As a result of his involvement in this production, Paul's name became synonymous with excellence, and his reputation as a talented and innovative choreographer spread far and wide. His ability to bring together seemingly disparate elements to create something truly special, as demonstrated by his work on this revue, made him a sought-after talent in the world of dance, and his legacy continued to inspire and influence generations of performers to come.
