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Notable Choreographic Works (+Links)
I. High School Musical franchise: https://youtu.be/DykVJl6wr_4?si=p4sFGom6hamSNn8t
II. Newsies film (1992) : https://youtu.be/DLRKUCXzfHM?si=2j761qv9dEsWggMI
III. Dirty Dancing (1987): https://youtu.be/XINddkzfTzM?si=l4Mbb6qjt3scI1i8
Kenny Ortega is a choreographer, director, and producer who is most well known for his creative direction for Disney Channel franchise films such as High School Musical, Descendants, and The Cheetah Girls. His career spans five decades and covers countless involvement in Broadway and Hollywood classic films long before his induction as a Disney Legend, becoming the recipient of numerous entertainment awards and shaping the artistic sphere of the musical theater world.
As a child, Ortega developed a love for dance, a passion shared by his family as they often danced together in the living room to radio records. In high school, he joined the drama club and later pursued a career in musical theater, performing in small stage tours after graduation. Ortega’s career eventually progressed to the Broadway stage, with roles in productions like Hair and Oliver! He later studied under the influence of his idol Gene Kelly, learning to choreograph specifically for the camera and continuing to assist Kelly with choreography for the 1980 film Xanadu.
Ortega grew up in the 1970s, when dance was evolving with influences from jazz, disco, and funk. Films like Saturday Night Fever and popular dance shows inspired him to integrate social dance into his choreography, blending energetic movements with the technical aspects of musical theater on large scales that also included concerts and the big screen. This creative vision ultimately led him to the prestigious role of becoming Michael Jackson’s supervising choreographer.
In musical theater, Ortega employs a technique of transforming pivotal dramatic scenes into dance numbers. I believe this approach is crucial for developing a clear narrative through movement: identifying the emotional essence of a situation and translating that energy into dance. In an interview, he credits this technique to the "Stick to the Status Quo" sequence in High School Musical. His signature “campy” gestures also play a significant role, making it apparent why the Disney environment was so suitable for him. Another strategy also includes incorporating popular social dances, like his work in Dirty Dancing which not only reflected the dance trends of the 1950s (timeline of the movie’s setting) but also highlighted class distinctions, adding depth to the film. The iconic lift at the end exemplifies this blend of storytelling and dance.
Ortega also incorporates creative warm-ups that cultivate a fun and inviting atmosphere, fostering encouragement, acceptance, and productivity. This approach is highly effective. I also admire his determination to keep expanding his resume, even after achieving significant success. For him, creativity is a continuous journey. The diverse range of his work truly inspires me, as my own creative ambitions extend beyond the stage. I aspire to direct creatively and collaborate with artists, aiming to broaden my experience in a similar way.
MLA Bibliography
“Back to School - Kenny Ortega.” DGA, Accessed 21 Oct. 2024.
Debruge, Peter. “Identifying the Kenny Ortega Touch.” Variety, Variety, 3 Oct. 2008, variety.com/2008/scene/markets-festivals/identifying-the-kenny-ortega-touch-1117993295/.
“Kenny Ortega: Speakers.” MSA Agency, 30 July 2024.
Littleton, Cynthia. “Kenny Ortega: From Dancer to Director.” Variety, Variety, 3 Oct. 2008, variety.com/2008/scene/markets-festivals/kenny-ortega-from-dancer-to-director-111799329.