Remembering Robert Redford: A Choreographer’s Tribute

In the summer of 1997, I had the rare privilege of serving as choreographer for Robert Redford’s film The Horse Whisperer. At the time, I was living in Montana, where the film was being shot amid breathtaking landscapes. What remains most vivid to me, however, is not the scenery but the experience of working alongside Redford himself.

From the very first rehearsal, “Bob,” as he asked us to call him, was a joy. He carried no air of superiority, no distance. Instead, he was open, gracious, kind, and full of curiosity. He listened closely, asked thoughtful questions, and always brought a willingness to learn. There was also a spark of fun in him, a lightheartedness that balanced his serious dedication to the craft.

My work involved staging a barn dance sequence with both local extras and the principal cast, including Redford and Kristin Scott Thomas. Together we explored movement, rhythm, and character—how the physical language of dance could deepen the emotional dialogue between their characters. Redford leaned into every note of direction, treating even the smallest detail with care.

Perhaps most fascinating was watching him collaborate with the horse trainers. They were teaching him how to handle a deeply troubled horse, and I often stood back, observing his quiet focus. Later, we would weave those physical lessons—his gestures, his stillness, his posture—into the choreography of his scenes with Scott Thomas. Redford was always eager to connect the dots, to dig deeper, to embody his character in body as well as voice.

Our collaboration was brief but unforgettable. In the years that followed, we crossed paths a few more times, and each time Redford greeted me warmly, with genuine remembrance of the work we had shared. He never hurried through those encounters; he always made time to connect.

To me, that speaks volumes. Redford was not only a consummate artist but also a man of integrity. He gave generously of himself—to his colleagues, to his audiences, to the stories he told on screen.

I feel deeply honored to have worked with him. He enriched us all with his talent, his ethic, and his humanity.

Rest in peace, Robert Redford. Thank you—for the lessons, the generosity, and the grace.