Celebrating Cabaret’s 40th

February 4, 2013

Quick! Think of a musical that epitomizes the Bob Fosse style.

Did you pick Cabaret? Odds are pretty good you did. Who doesn’t associate Fosse with fishnet-clad girls vamping to “Mein Herr”?

But here’s an interesting fact: The original Broadway production of the now-iconic show, which premiered in 1966, was actually choreographed by Ron Field, not Fosse. It wasn’t until the 1972 movie version, which Fosse choreographed and directed, that the jazz legend was able to put his sultry stamp on the musical numbers—which became the perfect showcase for star Liza Minnelli and her gorgeous gams. (Here’s another fun fact: Guess who played the Minnelli character, Sally Bowles, in the 1968 West End production of the show? None other than Judi Dench.)

The film won eight Oscars almost exactly 40 years ago. In celebration that anniversary, a high-definition Blu-ray version of Cabaret has just been released. You can get your copy here. (Warning, though: Like a lot of Fosse, it’s a little risqué.)

Four members of the film’s cast, including Minnelli and Joel Grey, made an appearance on “The Today Show” last week to talk about Cabaret‘s birthday and the awesomeness of Bob Fosse. They even treated Hoda and Kathie Lee to a little impromptu serenade. It’s adorable. Take a look!