Michael Kidd(1915-2007)

Credited Charles Chaplin as one of his biggest influences. He cited Chaplin's instinct for pathos and comedy as the foundation for his own efforts to sculpt characters and connect emotionally with his audiences through dance.

Dancing should be completely understandable -- every move, every turn should mean something, should be crystal clear to the audience. And if you can make them laugh or cry, move them emotionally, make them respond to the dancer as a real person doing something believable within your theatrical framework, well, you've done a job.