Question 1

Which female tap dancer was Fred Astaire reportedly intimidated by?

Accepted Answer

Fred Astaire was reportedly intimidated by Eleanor Powell because she was one of the few female tap dancers capable of out-performing him.

Question 2

What real-life ploy inspired the fur coat running gag?

Accepted Answer

The fur coat running gag was based on the real-life ploy of talent agent Doc Shurr.

Question 3

How does Broadway Melody of 1940 connect to other films in the series?

Accepted Answer

It follows The Broadway Melody (1929), Broadway Melody of 1936 (1935), and Broadway Melody of 1938 (1937). A planned 'Broadway Melody of 1943' was abandoned, and a dance number was edited into Thousands Cheer (1943).

Question 4

What ironic parallel exists between Eleanor Powell's character and her real life?

Accepted Answer

In the film, the producer says she can't leave the show due to contract. In real life, she left show business at the height of her stardom after marrying Glenn Ford, returning only after their divorce 15 years later.

Question 5

Who was the real singer behind the Screwball Soprano performance?

Accepted Answer

The Screwball Soprano was Charlotte Arren, not Carmen D'Antonio dubbed by Lois Hodnott. Her pianist was her husband Johnny Broderick, and her performance was her own voice, as seen in Calling All Stars (1937).

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Broadway Melody of 1940

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