Wallowitch & Ross: This Moment

Wallowitch & Ross: This Moment is a captivating, emotionally compelling documentary from 1999, directed by Richard Morris. At its heart, this film centers around two immensely talented individuals - John Wallowitch and Bertram Ross.

John Wallowitch was a prolific songwriter and pianist celebrated for his skill at weaving melodies and lyrics together to form songs that touch the soul. His creativity seemingly knew no bounds, with over 6,000 compositions attributed to his talent. Renowned in the New York City cabaret scene, he had a unique ability to fuse witty, complex lyrics with finely crafted melodies and harmonies that evoked a wide spectrum of emotions in his audience. His music resonated with the experiences of life in the city, bringing to vibrant life the romance, nostalgia, comedy, and occasional melancholy of urban existence.

In contrast, Bertram Ross is best remembered for his legendary career as a lead dancer and principal character player with the Martha Graham Dance Company, one of the most prestigious contemporary dance troupes on the planet. Ross performed and mastered a challenging repertoire that demanded not only physical prowess, but also a deep understanding of the human condition and the ability to express emotion through movement. He remains a celebrated icon in dance, although his talents spanned beyond this, and he was also an accomplished actor and singer.

Wallowitch & Ross: This Moment intimately explores the professional and personal lives of these two artists who were also life partners. It offers a fascinating glimpse into New York City's vibrant, fast-paced, and sometimes cutthroat world of performing arts as seen through the eyes of two of its most beloved veterans.

The film articulates their individual growth as artists and their shared evolution as a couple. It recognisably portrays their dedication, passion and commitment towards their work, and towards one another. The documentary is punctuated with poignant interviews, archived footage of their performances, and personal insight into the highs and lows of their acclaimed careers. It uncovers the daily discipline and rigorous commitment required to carve out individual spaces in the performing arts world while maintaining a loving, supportive relationship of mutual respect and admiration.

John Wallowitch's pairing with Bertram Ross resulted in a harmonious partnership that influenced both their professional and personal worlds. On stage, they were the dynamic duo whose performances captivated audiences, while off stage, their shared moments present a warm tale of love and companionship, unfazed by the pressures and strains of their public personalities.

Dixie Carter, a celebrated actress known for her role in the popular TV series "Designing Women", is also featured in the film. She shares a personal connection with the couple, indicative of the close-knit community that characterises the world of performing arts. Her insightful take on Wallowitch and Ross adds another level of understanding, as she provides a unique perspective on the couple's relationship from the viewpoint of a close friend and fellow artist.

Wallowitch & Ross: This Moment beautifully navigates the private and professional terrain of two dedicated artists linked by their profound love for one another and their passion for their artistic expression. The film goes beyond the spotlight's glare, providing an empathetic portrait of artistic accomplishment and devotion underlined by a deep romantic bond. It showcases the inspiring journey of two talented men, who used their immense skills to shape and influence the world of music, dance and Cabaret.

Director Richard Morris has managed to capture the spirits of these two remarkable figures, crafting a narrative that celebrates their talent, personality, and invaluable contributions to the arts. The documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in performing arts, compelling stories of love and companionship, or those simply looking to be inspired by the indomitable spirit of human creativity.

Wallowitch & Ross: This Moment is a heartfelt testament to the power of art and love that will resonate with viewers, leaving them uplifted and more understanding of the artistic heart. It's a love story told through music and dance, making it stick with audiences long after the credits roll.