Maurice Hines Obituary

Maurice Hines, the multifaceted actor, dancer, and choreographer who graced the stage alongside his brother Gregory Hines in Francis Ford Coppola’s “The Cotton Club,” passed away at the age of 80 on Friday. Friends, including Debbie Allen and John Manzari, confirmed the news of his demise.

Commencing his journey into the world of dance at the age of five, Hines made his Broadway debut in 1954’s “The Girl in Pink Tights.” In collaboration with his older brother Gregory, they crafted an act inspired by the iconic Nicholas Brothers, touring the country alongside their dancer father as Hines, Hines & Dad, making appearances on various TV shows.

Upon deciding to pursue a solo career, Maurice Hines portrayed Nathan Detroit in a national tour of “Guys and Dolls” and later graced Broadway in “Eubie!” His role as both choreographer and performer in “Uptown…It’s Hot!” earned him a Tony nomination for Best Actor in a Musical.

His choreographic prowess extended to productions such as “Harlem Suite,” where he also took on a starring role, the Louis Armstrong musical “Satchmo,” and “Havana Night in Cuba.”

While a prominent figure on Broadway and in touring productions, Maurice Hines’s sole feature film role was in Coppola’s 1984 musical, portraying part of the tap-dancing Williams Brothers team.

Television audiences recognized Hines through his appearances on “Cosby,” “Eubie!” and “Love, Sidney.”

In 2010, Hines took center stage in “Sophisticated Ladies” in Washington, D.C., co-starring with the teenaged dancing brothers John and Leo Manzari. John Manzari, expressing gratitude, remembered Hines on Facebook, acknowledging the extraordinary privilege of being mentored by him.

Hines’s rich choreographic legacy includes shows like “Yo Alice,” a tribute to his brother in “Tappin’ Thru Life,” and “First Lady of Song,” a homage to Ella Fitzgerald.

The biographical documentary “Maurice Hines: Bring Them Back” was released in 2019, encapsulating the life and contributions of this legendary figure in the world of entertainment. Maurice Hines’s influence on dance and his indelible mark on Broadway continue to resonate, ensuring his legacy lives on.