Itzhak Perlman: American Masters

Jerome Robbins: Something To Dance About

In a life that inspired controversy, no one disputes the place that Jerome Robbins holds as the preeminent director/choreographer of American musical theater. He transformed Broadway with shows such as "West Side Story," "Gypsy and Fiddler on the Roof" and he forged a career in ballet, first at American Ballet Theatre, then at New York City Ballet. This son of an immigrant deli owner was known for his often ruthless perfectionism and was dogged by his decision in 1953 to name names in his House Committee on Un-American Activities testimony. He was, nevertheless, universally respected for his unparalleled artistry. The program features excerpts from Robbins' work, including never-before-seen rehearsal footage, and interviews with many of his colleagues, both from ballet and Broadway, such as Mikhail Baryshnikov, Suzanne Farrell, and Chita Rivera.