Easter Parade facts for kids
Easter Parade is a super fun American musical movie from 1948. It was directed by Charles Walters and stars famous actors like Judy Garland, Fred Astaire, Peter Lawford, and Ann Miller. This movie was released by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and even won an Academy Award in 1949!
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About the Movie: Easter Parade
The movie Easter Parade is a classic musical. It tells the story of a dancer named Don Hewes (played by Fred Astaire). His dance partner, Nadine Hale (Ann Miller), decides to go solo. Don then picks a new partner, Hannah Brown (Judy Garland). He tries to turn her into a star. The movie is full of amazing songs and dance numbers. It's a joyful film that celebrates the spirit of Easter.
What is a Musical Movie?
A musical movie is a type of film where the story is told through songs and dances. Characters often sing their feelings or move the plot forward with a musical number. Easter Parade is a great example. It has many memorable songs that people still enjoy today.
Meet the Stars
- Fred Astaire was a legendary dancer and actor. He was known for his smooth and elegant dance moves. He starred in many famous musical films.
- Judy Garland was a talented singer and actress. She is best known for playing Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz. She had a powerful voice and was a beloved performer.
- Peter Lawford was an English actor. He played Jonathan Harrow, who is interested in Hannah.
- Ann Miller was a fantastic dancer and actress. She was known for her fast tap dancing.
The Story of the Movie
The movie starts on Easter in 1912. Don Hewes is a famous dancer. His partner, Nadine, leaves him to start her own show. Don says he can make any dancer a star. He picks Hannah Brown, a chorus girl, to be his new partner. He tries to teach her his style. But Hannah wants to dance her own way. They have some funny disagreements. In the end, they find a way to dance together. They also fall in love. The movie finishes with them dancing in the Easter Parade.
What is an Academy Award?
An Academy Award is a very special prize. It is given to people who do excellent work in movies. These awards are also called Oscars. Winning an Oscar is a huge honor in the film world. Easter Parade won an Oscar for its music.
The Real Easter Parades
The movie Easter Parade is named after a real tradition. Easter parades are popular events in many cities. People dress up in their finest clothes. They often wear new outfits and fancy hats. It's a way to celebrate spring and new beginnings.
What Happens at an Easter Parade?
During an Easter parade, people walk along a street. They show off their special Easter outfits. It's like a fashion show mixed with a celebration. Many people wear bright colors. They might have flowers or other decorations on their clothes. It's a happy and colorful event for families.
History of Easter Parades
The idea of Easter parades goes back a long way. In the past, people would wear new clothes to church on Easter Sunday. This was a tradition to mark the new season. Over time, this custom grew. People started walking outside after church. They would stroll along main streets. This became a social event. It was a chance to see and be seen. Some historians say the earliest idea of a parade might come from Jesus' entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday.
Famous Easter Parades
One of the most famous Easter parades is in New York City. It takes place on Fifth Avenue. Thousands of people gather there every Easter Sunday. They wear amazing and creative outfits. Some people even dress up their pets! It's a huge, lively event that attracts many visitors. The parade is not a formal march. Instead, it's a casual stroll. People enjoy showing off their unique styles.
Images for kids
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Participants in New York City's 2007 Easter parade
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Jesus' entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday has been cited as the earliest precursor to modern Easter parades.
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Participants in New York City's 2007 Easter parade
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Fifth Avenue, 1900
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1908
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1910
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1995
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2007
