Hinton Battle, Broadway Star and Tony Award Winner, Dies at 67
Hinton Battle, a renowned dancer, singer, actor, and choreographer, who dazzled audiences with his performances on Broadway and screen, passed away at the age of 67 on January 30 in Los Angeles, according to his family representative, Leah Bass-Baylis.
Early Breakthrough and Broadway Debut
At the young age of 18, Hinton Battle made his Broadway debut in 1975 as the Scarecrow in the original Broadway production of “The Wiz.” This classic musical featured an all-Black cast and received critical acclaim. Despite unexpected circumstances, Battle stepped in to play the Scarecrow permanently and delivered a remarkable performance, earning praise from New York Times theater critic Clive Barnes.
Tony Award Winning Performances
Following his success in “The Wiz,” Hinton Battle continued to make waves in the world of musical theater. He appeared in four Broadway shows between 1981 and 1991, earning Tony Awards for his outstanding performances in three of them. He won the prestigious award for his roles in “Sophisticated Ladies,” “The Tap Dance Kid,” and “Miss Saigon,” making him the only performer in history to have won the Best Featured Actor in a Musical Tony Award more than once.
Versatility and Contributions to Dance
Hinton Battle’s talents extended beyond Broadway. He worked with renowned directors such as Bob Fosse and Michael Bennett, and choreographed routines for various artists including Anita Baker, Joni Mitchell, and Sister Sledge. His recent projects also included choreographing the movie musical “Idlewild” and co-directing the off-Broadway production of “Evil Dead: The Musical.”
A Lasting Legacy
Hinton Battle’s impact on the world of dance and musical theatre was immense. Known for his impeccable technique and athleticism, Battle captivated audiences with his graceful performances and his tap-dancing prowess. His versatility allowed him to seamlessly transition between different dance genres, adding his unique touch to each. He also dedicated his later years to teaching and inspiring the next generation of dancers through his dance academy in Japan.
Hinton Battle’s passing is mourned by the theater and dance community, leaving an indelible mark with his performances and contributions to the world of performing arts.
