MovieChat Forums > White Christmas (1954) Discussion > Vera-Ellen's dance partner

Vera-Ellen's dance partner

posted 10 years ago by theludman
8 replies | jump to latest

It's just a shame that John Brascia, Vera-Ellen's dance partner for a couple of numbers in White Christmas, is virtually unknown to audiences. What a terrific dancer! I have always wondered why he has such a prominent role in the film for dancing with Vera-Ellen over Danny Kaye. While I also admire Kaye's abilities, I can't help but wonder if Brascia would have been given such a prominent role if Fred Astaire had taken the role instead, as originally intended. Anyone know?

[–] luvthepros 10 years ago

I would imagine if Fred Astaire had taken Danny Kayes role, we would have a different "White Christmas" movie. Astaire would have done the tap numbers with Vera Ellen. That's a given.

[–] singjohn 9 years ago

He was amazing in that duet with Vera-Ellen and in Choreography. What a hottie too!

[–] bonidea 9 years ago

Brascia's dances were highlights of the movie for me. He is one of the featured performers in the credits, even though he has no lines. I think his speaking scenes were cut when the movie was edited for television. Sadly, he died not too long ago with Alzheimer's.

[–] singjohn 9 years ago

He actually says something when the dancers and various show crew first arrive in Vermont. They're standing in the barnyard and he says something about everybody getting inside.

[–] communionsong 9 years ago

His biceps looked amazing...hell...his whole body looked amazing.😀

[–] liscarkat (17811) 2 years ago

He also has some lines during the rehearsals.

[–] liscarkat (17811) 4 years ago

He was a tremendously gifted, charismatic dancer. He should have had a much bigger film career.

[–] roreyking (579) 2 years ago

Agree with all the praise for Brascia. In the Abraham number, he’s the one that captures my focus, not Vera.