BREAK PARTNERSHIP?

Auckland Star, Volume LXVII, Issue 181, 1 August 1936, Page 5 (Supplement)

BREAK PARTNERSHIP?

LAST ASTAIRE-ROGERS FILM

STARRING INDEPENDENTLY.

Fred Astaire will be starred alone for the first time in his screen dancing life in "Watch Your Step." This musical production, for which Vincent Youmans is composing the music, was originally planned as a co-starring vehicle for Astaire and Ginger Rogers, but the powers that be at R.1v.0. decided the pair has been together long enough in view of the fact that no screen team has prospered over-long. Janet Gaynor and Charles Farrell probably lasted longer in joint harness than any other couple in the movies, but even they finally "took it on the chin"—cinematographically speaking. As compensation for the loss of the alluring redhead, Astaire will be awarded four or five feminine dancing partners. To dance with Astaire is equivalent to taking a ticket for the Hall of Fame and Hollywood's fairest are already scrambling for the important roles. To date, Harriet lioctor is the only dancer chosen.

Ginger Rogers has not been forgotten in the new dancing deal accorded Astaire. Following completion of "Mother Cary's Chickens," in which Ginger stars solo, she will be teamed with Jack Oakie in a movie combining comedy, music and dancing. Jack Oakie disporting' himself in a "Top Hat" or "Carioca" number should be something to see.