Peter Gennaro, a celebrated and renowned choreographer and performer, was born on November 23, 1919, in the picturesque and charming city of Metairie, Louisiana, a place that would serve as the humble beginnings of a life that would be marked by great artistic achievement.
As a young man with a passion for the performing arts, Gennaro's illustrious career on Broadway began in 1948, when he joined the talented ensemble of the production "Make Mine Manhattan", starring the incomparable and iconic comedian, Sid Caesar.
Gennaro's ascent to unparalleled fame and recognition commenced in 1950 with a groundbreaking and transformative appearance in the iconic and influential musical production of "Guys and Dolls", a momentous occasion that would indelibly inscribe his name in the storied chronicles of the entertainment industry, forever cementing his legacy as a trailblazing figure in the pantheon of show business.
As the passage of time slowly unwound its intricate tapestry, a talented individual emerged to captivate the hearts of many through his unforgettable performance in the critically acclaimed musical production, "The Pajama Game", which premiered in 1954.
Gennaro, a visionary and trailblazing figure in the realm of dance, made a groundbreaking contribution to the conception of the legendary musical "West Side Story" in the momentous year of 1957, a watershed production that would subsequently leave an enduring and profound impact on the world of American musical theatre, forever altering the landscape of the art form and cementing its place as a timeless masterpiece of American cultural heritage.
Gennaro, a highly skilled and accomplished choreographer, had the distinct privilege of working in close association with the illustrious Jerome Robbins, a renowned figure in the world of dance. Throughout their collaborative effort, Gennaro and Robbins worked tirelessly together, meticulously developing several pivotal dance sequences that would eventually become an integral and enduring aspect of the show's immense popularity.
Gennaro's remarkable contributions to the musical were particularly noteworthy, as he infused the "America" and "Mambo" dance numbers with his distinctive artistic perspective and creative genius, meticulously crafting every movement to captivate the audience's attention and leave an indelible mark on the world of dance, ultimately elevating the overall artistic value of the production and cementing his status as a visionary choreographer.
Gennaro's illustrious career transcended the confines of the theatrical stage, as he left an indelible mark on the world of television, showcasing an extraordinary range of talents and abilities. His remarkable versatility enabled him to effortlessly transition between various mediums, making a profound impact in the realm of television. Not only did he make numerous appearances in a plethora of television shows, but he also leveraged his exceptional choreographic skills to create captivating routines for various programs, further solidifying his reputation as a master of his craft.
His impressive television credits are a testament to his remarkable talent and dedication, featuring performances in and choreography for esteemed shows such as "Your Hit Parade", a legendary musical variety program that showcased the biggest hits of the day, as well as "The Polly Bergen Show", a popular television series that featured the talents of the renowned actress and singer. Additionally, he made significant contributions to "Judy Garland's CBS variety program", a highly acclaimed television special that highlighted the talents of the beloved actress and singer, and "The Kraft Music Hall", a long-running television series that featured a diverse range of musical performances and comedy sketches.
Gennaro was a staple presence on the esteemed Ed Sullivan's variety show, where he consistently mesmerized audiences with his captivating stage presence. Furthermore, he was an integral part of the core company on the short-lived CBS variety show "The Entertainers", which boasted an impressive roster of talented performers, including the notable Jon Davidson.
Gennaro's remarkable career was a testament to his versatility and dedication, as he held the prestigious position of choreographer for the legendary Radio City Music Hall for many years. During this time, he was responsible for meticulously crafting elaborate and intricate routines for the world-famous Rockettes, a task that required immense creativity, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the art of dance.
Throughout his illustrious tenure, Gennaro brought his unique artistic vision to life, weaving together mesmerizing performances that captivated audiences from around the world. His choreography was a masterclass in storytelling, as he expertly combined movement, music, and drama to create a truly immersive experience.
Gennaro's ability to balance tradition with innovation was a hallmark of his work, as he skillfully blended the classic styles of the Rockettes with modern flair and creativity. His passion for dance was evident in every step, every leap, and every spin, as he coaxed the very best from his talented performers.
As a result of his tireless efforts, Gennaro's choreography became synonymous with the magic of Radio City Music Hall, and his legacy continues to inspire and delight audiences to this day.
Gennaro's extraordinary life drew to a close on September 28, 2000, as he bid farewell to the world at the age of 80, leaving behind a rich and enduring legacy that would forever be etched in the hearts and minds of those whose lives he had touched.
Gennaro's extraordinary and far-reaching impact on the world of theatrical performance has left an indelible mark that continues to reverberate through the annals of time, earning him a prestigious posthumous honor in the form of induction into the American Theatre Hall of Fame in the year 2002.
