Fred Astaire Steps in Time: An Autobiography by Fred Astaire
Reader’s review STEPS IN TIME is a must for fans of Fred Astaire. It is important to bear in mind - and this book helps remind us - that Astaire was first and foremost one of the most talented dancers of the 20th Century, as well as a superlative musician. He was not, however, a writer and is candid about his lack of literary ambition. In spite of its 'unliterary' style, STEPS IN TIME is a fascinating read. It is an authentic testimony of someone who, for many of us, represents the song-and-dance-man par excellence, about the Vaudeville circuit and the making of some of the best known Hollywood musicals.
Astaire is sparing with personal details, using them chiefly as a framework for the history of his impressive career. In spite of his self-professed amateur status as a writer, he succeeds in transporting us to the legendary world of stage and film entertainment, often relating very interesting and funny episodes involving musical heros, such as Gershwin, Berlin and Ziegfeld. He also gives us a portrayal of stars such as Ginger Rogers and of his own, talented sister - the unimitable Adele. Yet, Astaire is always candid about his own flaws, both personal and professional.
STEPS IN TIME offers a unique insight into a world where perfectionism was not just a quality but a professional necessity More details |
