Our
beloved ARTE PHILLIPS
1959
– 2008
PHILLIPS—Arte,
from Jackson Heights, Queens, NY, died on November 12, 2008 in
Philadelphia, PA, at the age of 49.
Arte
was an established Theatrical Dance Champion, Instructor, Performer,
Choreographer, and Director. He performed in several Broadway
shows such as Tommy Tune's “Grand Hotel”, “Victor
Victoria” with Julie Andrews, “Once Upon a Mattress”
with Sarah Jessica Parker, the original workshop of "Fosse"
and as a dancer and Associate Choreographer for the Broadway production
“Swing”. Arte was The United States Ballroom Champion,
5-time Star Search Finalist and winner of the "Gypsy of the
Year" (Best of Broadway). As a choreographer Arte's romantic
and sweet-tempered work was theatrically persuasive. A review
by John Kenrick (Author of Musicals101.com) said, "Arte Phillips’s
fine choreography for Victor Victoria at the Papermill Playhouse
was miles ahead of the Broadway version, making "Le Jazz
Hot" and other numbers genuinely exciting." Joseph Bowen
was quoted to say, "...along with excellent ballroom choreography
by Arte Phillips, gave this show 'Queen of the Stardust Ballroom'
the polish it deserves."
Arte
was a bright light which glowed through his unpretentious, gentle
spirit touching everyone he knew and met. He was dearly loved
and admired by his family, friends, and professional colleagues.
The dance world has lost a beautiful person and a great talent.
As he dances in heaven remember his favorite saying from Fred
Astaire, “I have no desire to
prove anything by dancing. I have never used it as an outlet or
a means of expressing myself. I just dance. I just put my feet
in the air and move them around.”
Survived
in death by his mother and father Elizabeth and Lee Halbreich,
his sister and brother Pam and Chris Scheidemann. Preceded by
his biological father, Carson Scheidemann and his surviving wife
Pat Scheidemann.
In
respect to Arte's parents, a private memorial service was held
on November 14, 2008 in Philadelphia by members of the family.
We
will miss your enegry and passion for life, for dance, for people.
You will always be special in our hearts. Keep dancing sweetheart
and we know that you will be smiling down at us.
_________________________________________.