1979
Citation:
Gene Kelly, one of America’s favorite dancers, is also an actor, singer, choreographer, producer, and director. His works which span four decades including 36 motion pictures, 6 Broadway plays and numerous television productions. As an actor he is legendary for starring performances in such classics as “Singing in the Rain,” “Les Girls” and “What a Way to Go”. His credits as a director run the gamut from the hit Broadway musical “Flower Drum Song” to the film extravaganza of the stage musical “Hello Dolly!” Beloved as an entertainer, Kelly commands world-wide respect as an artist. In 1951, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences awarded him an Oscar in appreciation of his versatile talents, but especially for his brilliant achievements in the art of choreography on film. His choreography included “Pas de Dux” an original ballet that has made a history in the famous Paris Opera.
Award was presented at the President's Cabinet Twelft Annual Awards Dinner, April 27, 1979.