Gene Kelly established himself as a strong and unique screen personality. His 1944 ‘Alter Ego’ number in Cover Girl cemented his determination to change the look of dance on film. In his first work as director, Kelly took the musical On the Town onto the streets of New York.

His innovative use of dance, music and camera continued through such films as An American in Paris, Singin’ in the Rain, Brigadoon, and his homage Invitation to the Dance. An American in Paris won the Academy Award as Best Film in 1951. In recognition of his contribution, the Academy presented Kelly with a special award ‘in appreciation of his versatility as an actor, singer, director and dancer; and specifically for his brilliant achievements in the art of choreography on film’.

Following his creation of the ballet Pas de Dieux for the Paris Opera in 1960, Kelly was made Chevalier of the Legion of Honor. In 1995, he was awarded the National Medal of Arts by President Clinton. Kelly died in 1996 at the age of 83.