reography. That is part of what made Champion unique as a musical
theatre director.

We are delighted with the book for another reason. Certain figures in
dance and the theatre have become legendary. Gower Champion deserves
to be remembered among the most vital dancers, directors and chore-
ographers in the history of entertainment. His contribution to American
dance and theatre was extraordinary. Championought to be a legend.
And David Payne-Carter's book points out the reasons on every page.

It has been a privilege to work on this book. We especially want to
thank David's family, who have been so helpful. Among his friends who
kindly assisted with its preparation are his colleague, Jan Cohen-Cruz,
and Marge Champion, who made so much history with Gower Cham-
pion. This book benefits the David Payne-Carter Award Fund of the
Tisch School of the Arts, New York University. For help on this project
we want to thank Dean Mary Schmidt-Campbell and her assistant, Rob-
erta Kahn. We also want to thank Sylvia Wang for her aid and encour-
agement.

Brooks McNamara
Steve Nelson
Tisch School of the Arts
New York University

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