All the dance greats of the twentieth century, from Fred Astaire to Michael Jackson, have cited the Nicholas Brothers as huge inspirations for their craft. Fayard and Harold Nicholas were born (in 1914 and 1921 respectively) to musician parents who played with the regular band at Philadelphia’s famous Standard Theater. Consequently, the brothers, who would sit in the theatre whilst their parents were working on stage, got to witness most of the great Afro-American performers, jazz musicians and vaudeville acts of the times.
The older brother, Fayard, taught himself how to dance, sing, and perform by watching and imitating the professional entertainers on stage and first performed alongside his sister Dorothy as the Nicholas Kids. Later, Harold joined, and when Dorothy opted out, they became the Nicholas Brothers. They performed a highly acrobatic and innovative dance technique known as “flash dancing”, incorporating elements of tap, acrobatics and ballet.
As word spread of their dancing talents, they became famous in Philadelphia and their career really took off in 1932 when they became the featured act at Harlem’s Cotton Club, performing with the orchestras of Cab Calloway and Duke Ellington. Harold was 11 and Fayard was 18. Spotted by Sam Goldwyn, they were invited to Hollywood and their movie career began.
Their performance in the musical number Jumpin’ Jive (with Cab Calloway and his orchestra), featured in the movie Stormy Weather, is considered by many to be the most virtuosic dance display of all time. It’s certainly wonderful to watch.
