Best 60s Dancer Boy Ever - The Nitty Gritty

It's pretty obvious which one.
Taken from The Judy Garland Show, 1964

[@MC-342]

My dad used to dance like this into his 90s. Women used to line up to dance with him at weddings . My mom used to roll her eyes but she loved it. They would dance in our living room all the time. RIP daddy.

[@Marissa_loves_Jesus]

So sorry for your loss but I’m so happy for your wonderful memories 🙏💗

[@kee7374]

@@kg-xt4hg 🤨 you wrote this for what

[@thepangwin902]

​@@kee7374 I guess their Gaydar is so strong they can tell someone's sexual orientation through a comment about dancing. I'm gay too like @kg and my gaydar isn't as strong as that one. It's a major skill.

[@annetterenaud5508]

😂😂😂

[@mistypuffs]

Your dad sounds amazing. I’m very sorry for your loss mate

[@Musingsofawitch]

I’ve taken care of dementia patients for years. One of my favorite memories of caring for them is one gentleman in particular. He could not walk without a walker and was very slow. One day we had an Elvis impersonator come in to perform for them and that man grabes my hand and spun me around so fast, it was all I could do to keep up with him. I had never seen such awesome dancing in my life. He couldn’t walk but that man could bust a move that’s for sure. I found out later that he was an accomplished ballroom dancer in his prime. We made sure to have many more dances after that.

[@lee48lee68]

That’s a great story!

[@barbaras6792]

Well done! Maybe dementia patients can still be reached sometimes, with the right stimulation. So lucky to have you seeing to your patients' welfare 👏👏👏

[@katherinedelacruz9876]

@@barbaras6792 it has actually been proven that frequent dancing can help people prevent degenerative brain diseases like dementia because dancing strengthens memory capacity and our brains connection with our body’s systems. Pretty cool stuff. More people should take dance lessons if they can or just go out and dance with friends and family. Haha good work out for brain and body.

[@mynameisambertoo7379]

@@katherinedelacruz9876 music as well. I’m sure the music was what sparked his memory.

[@rachelb.1030]

Thanks for sharing that. So touching. 🕺

[@BEEGEES2222]

Rest in Peace, Bobbie Banas. Thanks for sharing your talents in dance, acting, and films with us all.

[@Deanna-qm1fh]

...thank you for giving him a name! They were all wonderful but he was loving it so❣️🌀

[@cskiles318]

I didn’t know he died 😢

[@steven4315]

@@cskiles318 Died July 29, 2024 according to wiki.

[@captlarry-3525]

@@steven4315 Shit. he had a facebook page. and was nice enough to chat a bit.

[@dianeorrvarstone2139]

Was very good..rip dear bobby❤

[@GrammarSplaining]

RIP Bobby, passed on July 30, 2024.

[@james---b]

july 29

[@michaelkroger899]

ohhh

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

Ohhh, didn’t know. So talented and light on his feet.

[@kimmididwhat]

The “Best Boy Dancer” happened to the Choreographer for this dance. His name is Bobby Banas. He also played Joyboy in Westside story. And Yes, he is still very much alive. 😃

[@TheConorsmithusa]

Yep and he is 88 years young now also 🙂

[@seetadurego5005]

Thank you for the info. I hope he is still lively just as he was in his younger years. This video made me smile. I'm still discovering old gems. :) Blessings

[@yofineazzauntie1999]

O wow... thanks. I was trying to look him up so I could enjoy more.

[@irene-monique89]

Yup you’ve answered all my questions. Thank you for that !! 👍🏽💯

[@cinnie2543]

Thanks so much for sharing that! Good to hear.

[@amberbrown9564]

I can honestly say, I’ve never seen anything like that before. Brings new meaning to the phrase “dance like nobody is watching”.

[@PinkOwl31]

Everyone loves this? I feel like I'm on some sort of bizarro world.

[@LlamawithHat]

Honestly lol

[@emilyg9057]

@@PinkOwl31 same. I rewatched it 3 times to try and find something I might’ve missed🥲

[@lunaromamusic]

Reminds me of Hairspray: "The Stricken Chicken - it's a little twitchy"

[@tonyacosta4574]

@@emilyg9057 it was totally tubular

[@DiannaAtherton]

I've lost track of how many times I have watched this.

[@113dmg9]

Ditto

[@manderson9514]

It’s catchy, isn’t it? 😃

[@goncharovevgeniy4436]

Затягивает!

[@jacquelinerice8158]

Me too

[@helenahandkart1857]

Yep, I'm rackin up the views, too. So delightful

[@l.gannon823]

Happy 90th birthday to Bobby Banas! The lead male dancer and choreographer.

[@Monsieurjv]

Can I ask you?, who’s Bobby?, the one in the front?, Thanks

[@janreed99]

​@Monsieurjv yep, that's him

[@bluegrassgirl44]

@@Monsieurjv He's the one out dancing the others by miles....he was so awesome!

[@MrSporkster]

Bro's name is literally Bobby Bananas, that's wild.

[@chaney1]

thumbs up to the girl dancer for keeping up with him and in high heels as well

[@MarcusStaAnaBurSelF]

I mean, they probably picked a girl with the same energy that can match his excellent performance.

[@gwynnyth2000]

She’s doing pretty well also! The boy on the left tripped and Bobby was pissed!

[@mikebowman4692]

Her dress choreo was als on point.

[@themermaidstale5008]

She’s the sister of the guy to the far right. Someone has commented both their names elsewhere.

[@esk444g]

@@themermaidstale5008 That's not true. The dancer is Gina Trinkonis. Her brother is Gus Trinkonis, also a dancer and actor. The guy on the far right is Peter Gennaro. All three, including the main male dancer in the front, were in the West Side Story movie, with Peter Gennaro being the assistant choreographer. Gennaro was also the choreographer of the Judy Garland show, but was out of town the week prior to taping this episode, so the guy in front, Bobby Banas, choreographed this dance.

[@joshmay817]

Someone should tell Bobby he's gone viral 57 years later.

[@padraiggillon]

He knows.

[@susanborkenhagen58]

He is still alive...87 years old.

[@limriness7902]

Whos bobby whats hes full name??

[@summersojourner]

@@limriness7902 just read some of the other comments. It’s pretty obvious.

[@judyapple3266]

@@limriness7902 Bobby Banas is his name

[@hotrodhog2170]

The blonde in the back on the left was my mom. R.I.P.

[@ripig111]

I'd like to know more. What was her name? Did she stick with dancing? Anything else we might have seen her in. How'd she get the gig on this show? I'm always curious about the people in the background, the supporting actors in movies, etc. They sometimes have interesting stories.

[@heidistgeorge9000]

I just lost my mom in September. It's awful. I hope you are finding your way.

[@EyeLean5280]

I'm so sorry for the loss of your beautiful mom.

[@ScribblebytesWorldwide]

Awww 💕

[@sharonbartley808]

She was happy here.

[@jessearroyo3927]

I couldn’t stop watching this over and over again. His dancing is MAGNIFICENT!

[@anthonytracy4275]

Do you know who started it ?

[@1diagram]

Me too!!

[@wheelie642]

Imagine all the folks back in the day that wished they could watch it repeatedly but had no VCRs or KZbin

[@-a5919]

@@wheelie642 OMFG that was good one mate lol

[@gutsfinky]

Yes! You almost think the fellow in the front is a bad dancer, but he's so bad he's good. But he gives it away at 0:30, only a very good dancer can move like that. 😊

[@67judson]

I stepped on a Lego and did that same dance two days ago.

[@colleenposadas8415]

Boobachie doesn't that hurt!!!

[@sheilamcdermott8536]

AHHH, your reply made me laugh aloud. So true, so funny.

[@Tonithenightowl]

Boob been there done that and it hurts like the dickens lol

[@daledrayton6435]

That's funny as hell!

[@kasmaineheyoka540]

Lmao! I couldn’t even read that out loud without busting out laughing!

[@GameOver-ei8ui]

If he only knew in 60 years, 13 million people will fall in love with him.

[@MarcusStaAnaBurSelF]

He'll probably know, he's still alive!

[@kupambazua1579]

13 “NEW” million people will fall in love...

[@kellywoodclark]

@@MarcusStaAnaBurSelF he is still alive and I need to tell him how amazing he is for this dance

[@studiosinger]

Uh, I thought he was horrible. Not everyone agrees with your delusions of dancers.

[@GameOver-ei8ui]

@@studiosinger True. I get it.

[@PaulWallis]

Bobby Banas is an impressive choreographer with an amazing track record of students - including John Travolta, Cher and Bruce Lee. I love what he did here both in the choreography and in leading the troupe. To me he looks and moves like a teenager. In fact he was 30 when this was recorded! Inspiring on every count!

[@GaelinW]

Did he choreograph that Seinfeld episode with Elaine dancing?

[@Shaggy-839two]

Bruce Lee? When?

[@eddieblackford4919]

Looks like a total spaz here

[@pandakso3365]

I love Bobby Bananas!

[@tinaperez7393]

Thanks for the background info. Say what you want about this ridiculous, hilarious dance - it's very intentionally so - the guy has real, obvious dance training, style, talent and skill, the required high energy and a commitment to the piece and a love of dance. I can totally see how this guy could probably choreograph anything and anyone and be great at it.

[@Erinski]

How many times have I watched this, telling myself I'll watch the other dancers to compare their moves, and it just never happens? Can't take your eyes off him.

[@caroliner2029]

Agreed. I couldn't take my eyes off him either, nor could the cameraman. He was so fit, and hit the beat perfectly every time.🇦🇺

[@spo616]

Same story for me also!

[@copperbuttons7376]

I feel the exact same way.

[@user-ph9ep3zi2h]

This is where Elaine from Seinfeld got her Dancing Moves.

[@Erinski]

@@user-ph9ep3zi2h Oh yeah. There's the little kicks 0:25

[@rosannecoffman1933]

THE dancer in the front is Bobby Banas. HE is 30 here. HE had a long and successful performing career. Today he is 84. We should all be so lucky to have such a great career.

[@littleone1353]

Thanks for giving us his name! Yay, fun research!

[@merncat75]

Thank you!!

[@ianbentley7276]

good info, cheers

[@hornetbrown]

Mr. Banas' shoes were retired after the taping of that scene. They were done...no more nitty or gritty left in 'em.

[@prebooomer]

He was so fluid, that is what makes him so great, no awkwardness AT ALL !!!

[@petercollinson8039]

Wow, it's like that guy is alone on stage. His enthusiasm makes the other dancers kind of disappear.

[@coyotesong]

Peter Collinson i sorta think the front couple both give it everything they had and then some. And they both look very serious. The couples in back are smiling and enjoying themselves more it seems while not dancing quite as hard. But it's all such tremendous fun. Wish i were back there.

[@robnlynchburgvaable]

Peter Collinson I thought exactly the same thing. the only other dancer you notice is the guy at the end that missed his mark. This dance is so much fun just because of that guys enthusiasm. At first I thought he was chewing gum, but decided he was actually counting steps. He never could have kept a piece of gum in his mouth.

[@alexandrebeaudry8377]

mmmm it's a choregraphy, seem more to me he want to steal the show

[@jennyq4979]

And they did!

[@mariusbaltazarrozenberg-ho9367]

+Peter Amphetamines

[@brendaannedufaur6244]

This is Bob Banas. I just saw him as a very very young guy in West side story. He was the best. And his body was the best by far - incredible dance training and built up arms, a dancer's posture. Just beautiful. And his whole look was unique out of all the gang. So impish, cool, terric actor, superb dancer, memorable.

[@tinaf.7941]

Brenda Anne Du Faur: was he team Jets or team Sharks?

[@jennileecreates]

@@tinaf.7941 He was a Jet (Joyboy).

[@paulamack2904]

Is this what Trump was trying to do?

[@Woodbug-b7t]

Thanks Brenda....I was wondering who this incredibly talented dancer was.

[@NancyR3454]

He was also one of the chimney sweeps who performed “Step in Time” in Mary Poppins!

[@michaelmckay8199]

Whew. He understood the assignment. I love watching people go all in on their talent.

[@laurakolberg7923]

He is 87 years old now! And still choreographing.....Bobby Banas

[@charlesschauer8927]

Oh, wow...

[@tamblam6587]

Great! Kudos to him.

[@stillfedup1758]

Really? That is fantastic! I'm so happy he didn't give it up!

[@salfromoregon4369]

I’ve watched and rewatched this. It is soooo good. Thanks!

[@lillianleigh7316]

@@salfromoregon4369 I told him I was embarrassed to tell how many times I watched this!

[@mikefountaini1]

That kid was in the zone! Ain't nobody gonna phase him out of that.

[@RogerDDog]

He's..... probably no longer in the zone.... if you know what I mean!

[@mikefountaini1]

@@RogerDDog I'm sure he still got the groove while on rolling walkers. Lol

[@nighthiker8872]

Right in the zone!

[@ofrapeters3952]

Lol ... you nailed it ...😂

[@rootedsorrow]

@@RogerDDog He's 87 and still working as a choreographer

[@hammycan]

The 60s were lit.

[@haleybledsoe5632]

agree with ya spam

[@ladyamalthea917]

I caught the tail end, not to be missed!

[@sheilaf1946]

Spam Box yes! It was like a cool bluesy type of gritty grunge with a groove back then.

[@SimplyNazsay]

if you was white yeah 😂

[@nopalsito_]

Yung Cutiepie lmao fr

[@debbiepranausk7732]

I've watched this so many times, and makes me smile EVERY time.. Rest in peace Bobby. 90 years old.

[@RocketCalcutta]

The so called 'Dancer Boy', Bobby Banas was thirty years old when he choreographed and led this dance performance. An impassioned and inspired routine most certainly! True talent on display here.

[@katarinaramos97]

He reminded me or comedian Chris Katan .

[@brianleach8529]

So you don't know how to dance either???

[@RocketCalcutta]

@@brianleach8529 who rattled your cage?

[@EstadoUnidenser02]

Thirty years old? He doesn't look it.

[@Inlinetodie]

Bobby Banas, also has a list of possession of narcotics..

[@georgiawilliams3731]

Will definitely Dance like that after we all get through 2020!!!

[@buchananjeneen3739]

🤣 Absolutely!!! We deserve it!!! 😂

[@MsZoedog66]

Me too!

[@conned]

Why wait?

[@dinoleo3804]

True

[@mlynnkleihege3024]

Yes, I’m all in!!!

[@opalmoonroper]

My stepdad just passed away. He danced this way, sometimes in Red Chuck Taylor's, sometimes in cowboy boots. I was embarrassed for a long time as he and my mom danced as I have had my own band for 25 years. I quit being embarrassed ( and realizing I wasn't 15 anymore) when my mom was so happy he'd dance with her, he loved it and it wasn't hurting anyone. Even though people would stop, point and giggle, it never stopped him. That's what dancing is supposed to be about, the joy. His Alzheimer's must have kicked in the remembrance of this actual style. I wish I knew that years ago. I'd give anything to see him dance while I play music again.

[@Chewbecca101]

if you have had your own band for 25 years, I can assure you that you have embarrassed a share of your relatives as well. It comes with the arts.

[@opalmoonroper]

@@Chewbecca101 agreed.

[@chicanasc4201]

Oh gosh what a sweet story. Blessings to you and your family. Hold tight to those happy memories whenever you feel down. 😌

[@timelkin838]

And we thought of life as an analogy of a journey, a pilgrimage; something serious to get to at the end, But in truth we missed the point all the way: It was a musical thing and you were suppose to sing or to dance to the music being played. Alan Watts

[@flipphone4755]

That’s a beautiful story

[@skehleben7699]

My father was an awesome dancer also, at my sisters wedding all the ladies wanted to dance with him. How I miss my dad, I loved him so much.❤❤🕺💃

[@lorinosborne7115]

Robert Banas if you are watching this know that you are an inspiration and should be very proud of your career!

[@cowboykelly6590]

He IS IRREPLACEABLE!

[@natrelacoustix]

When someone says "Dance like nobody's watching!" This is what I think of...

[@CGonzalezBeauty]

Yesssssss!!!!

[@scooscotch1535]

Yea

[@firenze5555]

LOL

[@hatbpto5180]

That is the secret to being a star on the dance floor.

[@cameliap1146]

🤣🤣🤣 how true !

[@Channel-ld9ip]

Thinking the world needs MUCH more of this kind of vibe.

[@luckylunaloops]

Be the change you want to see in the world 😉

[@Channel-ld9ip]

@@luckylunaloops, am doing so, to the best of my ability. :)

[@gaylasmith5279]

Loved all the dances from the 50's and 60's with their outrageous names and moves. They were fun!

[@daveedgalindoz166]

Made me want to freaken nitty gritty .

[@Channel-ld9ip]

@@daveedgalindoz166 , exactly.

[@linnmatthews8615]

Don't know how many times I've watched this one, but I keep coming back to see that boy go at it full steam. He's amazing.

[@carolsikkema7136]

I watch this clip every day. It's a must for me - a touchstone, a necessity! Just to know that Bobby Banas was dancing like this in 1964 makes everything OK.

[@brendaannedufaur6244]

beautiful comment carol

[@HMyers-kg7mn]

This is so great...Bobby is amazing !

[@sailorr4287]

maybe not everything, but it is a gift. Shirley Ellis is in there, too.

[@paulbradnick786]

Great reply..love the touchstone thought.

[@DConner]

We do too. Our cats hear it and even they come running to watch it. The pure joy of energy.

[@samiamisme]

This is how I dance at weddings. Somehow it doesn't get the same reaction.🤔

[@HurricaneRhonda]

That's their problem. Dance it as you feel it.

[@mozdickson]

samiamisme yes!

[@rodgow7035]

samiamisme yeah right lmfbo

[@adeho789]

Haha, yet I bet you're the best dancer there. Wish I could see you dancing like this... I would definitely cheer you on, but I couldn't join you, as I don't do weddings.. too many lame 'dance moves' these days.. nothing like the 60's, now those were freaky deaky, or something like that. ;)

[@mel3687]

Bahaha!

[@tracerloenan8020]

He put more into that than anyone would ever be able to match.

[@judith14011]

Bobby Banas is a seriously underrated dancer. You can catch glimpses of his talent in the original West Side Story as “ Joyboy.” I believe he ran a successful dance studio in L.A. for many years. He’s also in one of my favorite Dick Van Dyke episodes “ The Twizzle.” He is dancing in front in the bowling alley scene.

[@2manycatsforadime]

Danced on a few of the Bill Halley dance scenes. Forgot the movie name from the 50s..

[@BlueSkyCrystals]

Also danced with Dick Van Dyke in Mary Poppins.

[@cryptoenthusiast4999]

I think he looks seriously goofy.

[@catrinacarter5371]

That's awesome, I love the Twizzle episode on Dick Van Dyke ❤❤

[@rikk319]

@@cryptoenthusiast4999 lolz says the guy into crypto XD

[@MatthewP64]

It's impossible to only watch this once.

[@RosesR4U]

MatthewP64 Agree ❗️🙌🏼👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻I watched it at least 10xs in a row 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@rw8733]

I know. Too good but too short. ☺

[@daniellougheed1181]

Man I gotta say that this Bobby B. does remind me of me, Toronto the 60's gr. 9 the school dance, I was pretty good, but not as bad ass as the B Boy. It puts a great big smile on my face, I can't watch it anymore, at least until tomorrow! !

[@humbertoflores2545]

Yeah..me too I played for 4 to 5 times

[@xmo552]

Probably 10 times for me. That front guy was on fire and the song is super catchy. It sounds and feels like Shop Around.

[@mehitablestorm8877]

I love how they zoom right in on him, it was so obvious he was the best. Really fun piece!

[@tomdonnelly1154]

Mehitable Storm yep !

[@QueensLadyDay]

He was Joyboy in West Side Story (1961)!

[@EyeLean5280]

Love your name! Are you an Archie and Mehitabel fan?

[@nelf4830]

You are the best for saying that

[@2muchlove4you83]

for me the girl was the best

[@DebraJEAN472]

I'm old. Saw this live.

[@Anna-yp3bb]

😄😁

[@Shibalvr]

Yep!!!😊😊

[@kellybortolin1143]

Seriously……for some reason, watching this just makes me happy!! I LOVE the way he just moves the way his body wants him to!! No inhibition, just pure joy!!! 💜💕💜

[@raslu04]

This is the caliber of performance you get when the artist is INTO IT!!! All you can do is sit there and watch in awe. You GO Bobby Banas!

[@bosoxgirlie]

I was glad to read your comment. You can tell he's not just dancing, he's feeling the music. It's moving through him. He's amazing to watch.

[@johnattaway2512]

Bobby banas

[@ultraroadmap]

The middle dancer can be placed anywhere in time and be exceptional...he has that raw natural talent and for the mid or so 60's this dude was delivering the goods...

[@markanthonyfuentes4052]

Bobby Banas studied movement and mastered technique along his love for music. He is forever 30yrs old. Love ya Bobby!!

[@TheScarecrowozify]

Bobby Banas not only danced in the film of "West Side Story" but is also spotlighted on the screen in "L'il Abner", "Mary Poppins" (as a "Step in Time" chimney sweep) and "Carousel".

[@jerzbouy1]

Imagine dancing dressed like that today. Seen a lot in my 76 years.

[@laurakolberg7923]

he is bobby banas....87 years old now-danced in west side story and others..... so dang cool

[@gloriamaryhaywood2217]

I'm 10 years behind you at 66 years old. Yes, what a transformation our world had gone thru, Huh? Almost seems surreal at times.........

[@metalmayhem4365]

Steve your avatar is AWESOME

[@jerzbouy1]

@@metalmayhem4365 Thanks.

[@javierjuarez3826]

Those girls were sexy as today...who's is w me. 😉🤭🙄

[@300books]

Best dancing energy ever from Bobby Banas! I wish I had those free-flowing moves of his.

[@boomshine87]

This is delightful to watch. Elegantly dressed. Passion in their moves. All having fun. Genuine. No fake smiles or over decorated sets.

[@jonkirkwood469]

And so pretty.

[@mercster]

Also no nudity and twerking, imagine that.

[@danielvidal2717]

Absolutly agree with you!!

[@ThisUsernameSystemF-ckingSucks]

@@mercster you mean like most music and dance that still exists today? You care too much about that shit. Stop bringing it up and it might eventually disappear.

[@PBandShayne]

@@mercster Considering how women back then had asses like the back of a skillet and judging by this video, no rhythm. I believe you.

[@lynettenasseri753]

He felt the music and rhythm in his soul. Not many that could dance like that in those days and even today.

[@ikutu7771958]

His name is Bobby Banas. He was in several movies including West Side Story, The Unsinkable Molly Brown and Mary Poppins. His performances showed his endless energy and had a long career.:)

[@GUITARTIME2024]

Linda Nelson still alive too

[@ingridlowe5144]

Linda Nelson

[@annmitchell4663]

Was he ever in Sweet charity..?

[@martinwest4980]

Who cares the name of this dancer.... irrelevant

[@hampman701]

Does anyone know names of other dancers? I know PeterGennaro and Gina Trikonis but don’t know the other three dancers

[@awwwyahhh4571]

He is totally bringing out the best in his partner also. No silly pasted on smile. Pure game face.

[@wannabevan3697]

I think I have watched this 50 times. I love how he dances!

[@wandarask8444]

I don't know why but I always go back and watch this over and over .

[@user-ph9ep3zi2h]

You must be Bananas over him.😂

[@christianhadsell8915]

Me too! ❤

[@annach7914]

@@user-ph9ep3zi2h😂 🍌

[@annach7914]

@@user-ph9ep3zi2h😂🍌

[@Monstylicious]

@@user-ph9ep3zi2h I see what you did there!

[@henryseldon6077]

I am in awe of Bob Banas. He seems to generate much more energy then he consumes! I've watched this dozens of times and it never gets old.

[@Thatafrr]

THIS IS ONE OF MY FAVOURITE VIDEOS OF ALL INTERNET I WISH I COULD GO BACK IN TIME

[@errickmolino1828]

Thaísy Ferreira gurang k n no?

[@ohmeowzer1]

Mine too I love it

[@paxsmile]

I wanted to watch them all but I couldn't take my eyes off the guy in the middle.. wow..

[@lauranorwar]

paxsmile I was just thinking the same thing!

[@furiousdestroyer2.050]

If my auntie knew how much her music really touched people. I love coming back here and seeing all the people commenting it’s a shame I didn’t get to meet her singing runs in the family

[@annach7914]

Are you Shirley’s niece/ nephew?

[@TheKinderdoc]

I have watched this video 5 times and can’t take my eyes off the young man in front. His dancing really makes me smile!

[@kalmia01]

Exactly! His body is truly able to express the joy of being alive 😊

[@Mari-zv6sv]

He can’t dance. The guy in the back is better.

[@LIVEINPEACE2023]

Riiight

[@kirtreeves7777]

Hi Nancy!

[@23715]

His name is Norman Wisdom.

[@Orsley]

The kid setting the whole place in fire is Bobby Banas, age 31 at the time of this show, and he choreographed this number because the regular choreographer was unavailable. He had a long career as a dancer, including appearing in "Peter Pan" on Broadway and on TV, as a chimneysweep in "Mary Poppins," in "Let's Make Love" in which he kissed Marilyn Monroe, and in the original cast of "West Side Story" on Broadway and later on screen (he's a Jet), before moving on to teaching and choreography.

[@etraig]

i thought he had to be the choreographer, from the way he was going at it. he seemed to be counting as well. bobby banas way so cool!

[@paxsmile]

etraig he definitely wasn't counting.. just singing along.. feeling the music.

[@lisacrow9881]

Looks like he's chewing gum. Pretty badass!

[@heidrunluttenberger4721]

@@etraig ..

[@prebooomer]

Absolutely the finest dancer there ever was. If you want to dance like him, which I do, just watch him and practice your balance and fluidity of movement, and if you are coordinated at all, you too can dance like this!!

[@legendofbillyjean]

Bobby Banas found an amazing way to channel his excessive energy through dancing. Clean living guy with a lot of class and an excellent role model especially for today's youth.

[@0Alltheworldsastage]

LegendOfBillyJean--BEST description and comment about Bobby Banas Ever!!!

[@BUSTER.BRATAMUS]

tell me more about Bobby.

[@legendofbillyjean]

Best interview ever.Will give you a reasonable idea of how wonderful he is as a person and an entertainer. themartinreport.wordpress.com/2013/12/22/getting-right-down-to-the-nitty-gritty-with-bobby-banas/

[@rhagedorn]

+Chris .Appel He's also got a Wikipedia page as Robert Banas: www.wikiwand.com/en/Robert_Banas He's still around at 83.

[@colorfields]

AMAZING ENERGY

[@joshargan1601]

I think the kid's dance is awesome. Imagine having those moves-being able to be that loose and expressive at the same time.

[@lochldy]

I can't stop watching his feet. He gives the unmistakable impression that he's just "slinging" his body around in time to the music but his feet tell the truth. He is in complete control every nano-second and his feet barely touch the floor in places. Completely mesmerizing.

[@carolinepark9478]

Trisha H

[@bilbobaggins5815]

Trisha H nano second? Lol fuck off

[@pennykent5687]

Trisha H so true, so true☺️

[@lalaland7961]

@@bilbobaggins5815 lol ikr, this is such an exaggerated comment

[@prebooomer]

Girls tellin the truth! this guy was my Idol, my Mom taught me to Swing Dance when I was 14 in 1956, and this guy taught me fluidity in action, in 1963, and even at 75, I am one helluva good Swing Dancer, and never lack for a female partner at Swing Dance meets. So get wise and learn fluidity, its poetry in motion, just like the song, effin clods!!

[@sdevane75]

My 3 year old dances exactly like that at weddings - I know, I know, I really shouldn't let him drink so much.... But.. I mean, it is a wedding.

[@bond1j89]

lol

[@raahauge]

If he is old enough to get married, he is old enough to get drunk.

[@pixiedust5239]

Lmdaoooooooo

[@MeganVictoriaKearns]

This comment made me smile today. 😃 I bet the little dude is the star of the dance floor. The alcohol is a bit taboo... but your point was noted. ✅ I mean, it IS a wedding! 🍷🤸‍♂️🕺💃

[@panamasrose]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@Rawlingm]

No one giving credit to the girl dancing with him, she is killing it

[@Deej496]

Theres a few comments on her.. 👍

[@Trex100]

agreed. She's great.

[@francesmcstay]

Only because I can't stop looking at HIM! He commands your attention, lol.

[@johnas1011]

eh not so good imo

[@michelefreeman6512]

Yes she is. Does anyone know her name?

[@rootedsorrow]

Sad to hear the news about the death of the Best 60s Dancer Boy Ever. RIP Bobby Banas.

[@marthawelch4289]

I am amazed that people think that this is just a dancer "letting go". It takes a lot of technique, training, and control to be able to move like this.

[@marygreenlund4352]

It's when the dancer becomes the dance.

[@marthawelch4289]

Mary Greenlund Yes!!

[@fluttershypony1760]

I think people think that because most people just feel too shy to dance

[@MusicandDancing4Ever]

for white people it takes technique and training, because very few got soul and rhythm. Black people back then would of really showed you how to get down to the nitty gritty but again whites imitating black talent instead of showing the real thing. Jackie Wilson and James Brown would make that white boy look like nothing.

[@MusicandDancing4Ever]

Martha Welch for white people it takes technique and training, because very few got soul and rhythm. Black people back then would of really showed you how to get down to the nitty gritty but again whites imitating black talent instead of showing the real thing. Jackie Wilson and James Brown would make that white boy look like nothing.

[@shavaunaronan3188]

That one guy is the highlight of the entire dance. I can't take my eyes off of him. I have watched the video many times. Wow, this guy could dance. Wherever he is, I hope he is still dancing!

[@sixchiensblancs]

Apparently he, his name is Bobby Banas, is still alive and was in the movie West Side Story.

[@johnnyllooddte3415]

hes gay

[@markanthonyfuentes4052]

@@johnnyllooddte3415 Johnny I wouldnt know. But man he could dance.

[@midwayvac2077]

@@johnnyllooddte3415: Who Cares if he's gay or not? That's just stupid to even comment. Idiot.

[@Ronin4614]

Midway Vac ~~~~ I concur, Midway. 👍😎

[@lookeron2467]

Bartender, I 'll have what the guy in front ordered.

[@tomdonnelly1154]

lookeron talent

[@gavanwhatever8196]

Pretty sure it's not something a bartender stocks...

[@teddyvincent4833]

Now that, my friend, is a great comment. I’ll have what he’s having as well.

[@captlarry-3525]

you mean a shit load of talent.. and a lifetime of hard work? He isnt famous for nothing!

[@tomdonnelly1154]

THE Guy had IT !

[@tcme11]

Oh, yes. Tha'ts Bobby Banas. He's one of the best to ever dance on film. Remember his name.

[@neverjethot]

If I tried this dance at my age, my wife would think I was having a stroke.

[@agb534]

Jajajaj

[@sanhar2075]

Try it anyway. Maybe she'll join in.

[@dashabondarenko9221]

John Everett And what's your age ? 50-60-70-80-90 ?

[@ashleybaran9264]

i was thinking seizure!! do all you guys know he was a dancer in so many hits on broadway my favorite west side story...hard to believe he's in his 80"s...he was amazing..DAKOTA..

[@kimorejel5380]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@tatjanabaker3521]

Dance like no one is watching, as everyone watches.👀 He killed it. The skill of a body musician. A Mental percussionist. So fun to watch!

[@brianleach8529]

You're joking right???

[@alegrant827]

I couldn't have said it better...you said it for me.=, "a body musician". I love this clip-----

[@wolfrainexxx]

@@brianleach8529 You think his dancing was poor? He's an entertainer. Watch the people behind him, and you'll see how he normally danced.

[@jennyq4979]

He is so cool! He totally makes that number worth watching.

[@theloreleis6621]

God bless Bobby Banas, rest in peace. :'(

[@peytonturnerrock]

He is in the ZONE! Jammin'! Love the pure JOY he is puttin' off! His energy is contagious! Love the way he shakes his head...so into it! That's a BORN rhythmic machine!! The way he dances and stomps at the same time and the way he doing the "jerk" 💯💯💯♥️♥️ always on beat!

[@elainecaliendo6797]

my new all time favorite...60's guy dancing...he is INTO IT!!!

[@williamrolls857]

Hello friend, how're you doing today?

[@denniscook1422]

I'm 62 and I did that dance just yesterday. Stepped in a fire ant nest.

[@lianalonge1984]

The couple in the front is kill’n it! 🎶🎼🎵🥰

[@Filmstarindamaking]

I dare you to watch anyone other that kid in the front. You just cant take your eyes off of him. That’s what I call putting your whole soul into it.

[@sandyfreyman3501]

I did the right back guy and he tripped at the end

[@jokoolone]

I thought the guy on the right was better. The young man in front looked like he was having a fit. 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@marksmith46]

They put him in front for a reason.

[@dennisleporte2327]

What was the reason ? XD

[@mortalclown3812]

Dennis LePorte Yeah but that was THE Bobby Bana. look him up. He's still around.

[@dennisleporte2327]

I actually did lol. Cool bio.

[@BeLikeJimin]

Dennis LePorte Bobby choreographed the dance!

[@cluny]

Bobby is the only one who kissed Marilyn Monroe. See it in his highlight reel here.

[@jewelleryaddict]

I agree you could tell the music was in him. You could almost feel it yourself watching him. Hope he had great life. they all did very good but he was great!

[@williamrolls857]

Hello friend, how're you doing today?

[@abrahamboyd9507]

Bobby had that soul possessing dance rhythm nobody else had!

[@alissunwolf8249]

You can tell that one guy felt the music so much better than the others. Hope he ended up having a dancing career.

[@57babyboomer]

That guy is Bobby Banas and yes, he had quite a career in dancing. Danced in many, many movies then became a teacher and choreographer.

[@alissunwolf8249]

He deserves that good dance career!

[@HeinoRodemund]

+57babyboomer Thanks a lot!

[@borombon]

+Alis Sunwolf I don't know about his further career but he managed to kiss Marilyn!! www.theulster.co.uk/Marilyn.jpg

[@jaytaylor7740]

+57babyboomer He also danced in a couple of numbers from the Patty Duke magnum opus, "Billie." Should be on youtube.

[@gregbradshaw8441]

First thought 'He owns it, like he choreographed it!' One side trip to Wikipedia later: Yup, he did! Bravo Robert Banas !

[@shannaobrien5454]

Thank you.

[@kool-aidcorncrap7880]

You owned it with your comment dude 👍

[@ivorbiggun710]

Still with us aswell, I'm glad to say. 87 years young.

[@suzeauster2223]

I was just heading there!!! Thank You 👍

[@FumbleAIBO]

No wonder, then! He is fire!

[@stephenryder1995]

This guy(Bobby Banas) was the best for one simple reason: He put everything he had into that dance, he let the dance take him, and he left it all on the stage. The others were just repeating what they learned in rehearsal.

[@captlarry-3525]

Well, you better check Gina Trinkonis..his partner. She is not lagging behind here! In the back on the right.. her brother.. who married goldie hawn.. no slouch either.

[@CikisHelyzet]

Capt Larry - Exactly! 👏👏

[@yogesyoges6415]

Exactly.

[@annettehatzman8058]

@@captlarry-3525 No kidding?!?! I was definitely already totally admiring his partner, but I'm blown away that her brother married Goldie Hawn! Now I have a little bit of research to do, for sure! ( I always LOVED watching Goldie dance on Laugh-In!!)

[@fluffybunny7840]

Watching this has put a big smile on my face…🙏

[@abracadabrat]

1000X YES!!! My eyes went straight to him and never left him the whole time. He was the physical embodiment of "Nitty Gritty" in motion. Bravo!

[@kittymervine6115]

also he choreographed the dance.

[@ellyreginald6546]

He just goes where the music takes him. A natural!

[@sinbadsailor1963]

Well, that's Banas and he created the dance. He was the fill-in choreographer that week.

[@KM-xr5gg]

I watched 4 times in order to watch them individually and they were all unique, very fun to watch!

[@blaneEvans]

When real dancers are in theyre feels, theres no stopping them.

[@RivkahSong]

He dances with an energy, attitude, and fluidity the other dancers just don't have. Part of that is likely the fact that this is HIS choreography, part of it is pure experience since he's likely been a professional dancer longer, and part is just pure love for what he's doing. The others all dance with precision, with each move perfectly practiced and executed but that's not going to stand out as much against someone also performing it perfectly but with passion.

[@Deanna-qm1fh]

Passionate comment❣️

[@VegasLounge]

The exact moment when the Early 60s and Late 60s collided.

[@aleksandarjoksovic9906]

VegasLounge If only the Early 60s could have lasted forever...

[@sophusjordtpetersen6871]

True!!

[@scholasticbookfair.]

@@aleksandarjoksovic9906 Because those were totally the best days, right? Ha! Hilarious!

[@2023Mermaid]

what was the difference between the early 60s and the late 60s?

[@SES4L]

@@2023Mermaid Civil Rights, Drugs, Hippies, etc.

[@btinsley1]

upstaged ! show-stopping ! wiped-up-the-floor ! rhythm unbridled ! uncontrolled yet controlled motor skilling wild boy dance moves ! herky-jerky-no-twerky ! ya gotta love this !!

[@tonithenightowl1836]

I don't know how many times I've watched this clip.... a shitload and it never ceases to amaze me. Bobby is off the charts...fantastic.

[@tammiechandler6064]

I hole heartedly agree I watch it all the time

[@tonithenightowl1836]

@@tammiechandler6064 I remember watching this as an 11 yr old kid in 1964. Bobby's talent made every other dancer pale in comparison. It's not a wonder he became a famous choreographer. I'm glad to see I'm not the only one who has to watch this every so often. lol :o)

[@lauraswann5543]

I can't take my eyes off the lead dancer, he is AMAZING! I don't know what the others are doing, because I can't take my eyes away from his dancing. I honestly think he is the best dancer I've ever seen. 💯💖🎯🎉👍🏆🎖💯

[@aprilsky8474]

The guy in the front absolutely smashes it. He's got the groove.

[@marksmith7999]

That's Bobby Banas, a very successful Broadway and movie dancer, and the choreographer of this piece.

[@aprilsky8474]

@@marksmith7999 Yes as I found out. Awesome.😄

[@edsmart5443]

He is the groove.

[@7425park]

Dweeb

[@EricLovesthe80s]

he choreography the dance for the song hes a dance teacher as well

[@jindandy7826]

Finally figured out why his performance is so captivating. It's his utter abandon to the beat. Aaahhh to be so young & carefree again. :)

[@markshoenus2591]

I was thinking the same thing. Every generation has a "new generation."

[@erasmusb.draggin2022]

He appears to be ON something & has the grace of a stork.

[@binaryvoid0101]

It’s because they’re White.

[@hyzercreek]

@@binaryvoid0101 White people can't dance? I'll tell Fred Astaire he needs to know

[@binaryvoid0101]

Generally, White people have no cultural/historical expectations to have rhythm. Fred Astaire doesn’t culturally represent all/most White people.

[@s.i2799]

I think I am love with Bobby Banas...I reckon so is the cameraman..the focus is always on Bobby and who can blame him..Bobby is simply unmatched..just phenomenal. I think I have watched this countless times and I still can't get enough of watching him dance!!!!

[@peytonturnerrock]

Me too girl! 😍 A man dancing with such fierce passion stirs the soul in a magical💫way❤️🎶

[@Lisa25219]

me too!

[@kirbywaite1586]

Plus he's gorgeous.

[@Cormorant0512]

Rest in power Bobby Banas

[@StBarts-hn1qw]

Dude in the front is NOT playing!! Lol!! He is excellent!!

[@mrbabblehead]

Pretty obvious by the way the camera is following him that he was considered the star dancer. He is really good.

[@siaciross6173]

That is Bobby Banas. He was also the choreographer for this dance. He was subbing for the usual choreographer. He acted, sang and danced in many films and shows, most notably West Side Story. His passion made his performances sparkle!

[@Lynxrite]

He is so fabulous.

[@user-vy1dh4ie2s]

Brilliant song and dance. Young people watch and learn.