Elaine Cancilla Orbach was an American stage and musical theatre dancer and actress. She was the wife of the late Jerry Orbach. The couple shared a lot, and their life was fun, especially since they shared similar career interests. Although they are both dead, knowing who Elaine Cancilla Orbach was is worthwhile. Moreover, we will give a brief insight into who her husband was.
Early Life and Career of Elaine Cancilla Orbach
Elaine was born on January 19, 1940. Her birthplace is Pittsfield, Massachusetts. She is of American nationality and started expressing interest in dance at an early age. Between the ages of 10 and 16, she attended the Community School of Pittsfield to study dance. Later, one of her teachers took her to New York, where she auditioned for George Balanchine. The auditions were held at the School of American Ballet.
Luckily, she got accepted into the school and received a full scholarship to start her studies at the age of 17. Elaine was in the same professional ballet class with other reputable names, including Melissa Hayden. At some point, she watched the West Side Story at the Winter Garden Theatre. The experience made her take a different path and become a show dancer.
At age 19, she got a chance to join the Broadway Musical and soon became a favorite dancer of choreographer Bob Fosse. During this time, Elaine and other dancers would take breaks to sneak over and attend the Imperial Theatre to see what other performers were doing. Unknowingly, these activities led her to meet her future husband, Jerry Orbach, who was part of the shows at the Imperial Theatre.
Although Elaine married Jerry Orbach in 1979, the two had met earlier when working in the Broadway Threatre production. They appeared together in the Kander & Ebb musical in Chicago. Besides, they toured together during the production of Neil Simon’s play. After dating for over a year, that’s when the two decided to marry.
The Death of Elaine Cancilla Orbach
Elaine stayed with her husband from the time of their marriage in 1979 to 2004, when her husband died. Unfortunately, Elaine suffered from pneumonia and died while getting treatment at a hospital in New York City. Her death was announced on April 1, 2009. According to her friends, Elaine started ailing from pneumonia a few days before her death, and while seeking treatment at Manhatten Hospital, that’s when she met her death.
Who was Elaine’s Husband?
Jerry Orbach was born on October 20, 1935. He was a famous American actor and singer. His professional career began off-Broadway on the New York stage, and he appeared in different roles. Orbach has played numerous roles, and it was during his stage performances that he met his future wife.
Regarding his early life, Orbach was the only child of Emily Orbach and Leon Orbach.
After graduating from High School, Orbach decided to start working at Chevy Chase County Club Theatre before enrolling at university. He has had a successful and lucrative career, and his reputation will forever be remembered.