The Three Biltmorettes were a singing trio that performed in the 1920s and 1930s. They were known for their signature tap-dancing number "The Charleston." The group consisted of three sisters, Irene, Dorothy, and Helen Biltmore.
Background:
* Irene Biltmore (born Irene Bilt) was born in 1901 in New York City. She began performing at an early age and was a successful dancer by the time she was in her teens.
* Dorothy Biltmore (born Dorothy Bilt) was born in 1903 in New York City. She followed in her sister's footsteps and became a successful dancer.
* Helen Biltmore (born Helen Bilt) was born in 1906 in New York City. She was also a talented dancer and joined her sisters to form The Three Biltmorettes.
Ziegfeld Follies:
The Three Biltmorettes made their Broadway debut in the Ziegfeld Follies of 1924. They were an instant hit with audiences and were featured in several more editions of the Follies, as well as other Broadway shows.
The group also toured extensively throughout the world. They performed in Europe, Asia, and South America, and were particularly popular in South America, where they were hailed as "The Sweetheart Sisters of the Samba."
The Charleston:
The Three Biltmorettes are best known for their signature tap-dancing number "The Charleston." They were among the first performers to popularize the dance, which became one of the most iconic dances of the 1920s.
The Charleston is characterized by its fast-paced tempo and syncopated rhythm. The dance involves kicking the feet out in front and to the side, and is often accompanied by clapping and other hand movements.
Later Years:
The Three Biltmorettes disbanded in the early 1930s. Irene and Dorothy continued to perform as a duo, while Helen retired from the stage. Irene and Dorothy appeared in a few more Broadway shows and movies before retiring from show business in the 1940s.
* Irene Biltmore died in 1985 at the age of 84.
* Dorothy Biltmore died in 1994 at the age of 91.
* Helen Biltmore died in 1989 at the age of 83.
Legacy:
The Three Biltmorettes were one of the most popular singing trios of the 1920s and 1930s. They were known for their beautiful harmonies, energetic performances, and signature dance number "The Charleston." The Three Biltmorettes left a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment and their contribution to tap-dancing and the Ziegfeld Follies remains significant.