Maurice Hines, a renowned figure in the world of Broadway as a dancer, choreographer, and actor, passed away on December 29, 2023, at the age of 80.
Hines’ death, due to natural causes, occurred in Englewood, New Jersey. The announcement was made by his representative and cousin, Richard Nurse, to The Hollywood Reporter.
Maurice Robert Hines Jr. was born on December 13, 1943, in Harlem. His parents were Alma and Maurice Sr. His father was a drummer and soda salesman. Hines, along with his younger brother Gregory, 26 months his junior, began their journey into the world of dance at a young age, studying tap under the tutelage of Henry LeTang in Manhattan. Their early admiration for the Nicholas Brothers, Fayard and Harold, shaped their aspirations and style.
The Hines brothers made their professional debut as children, performing as the Hines Kids. Their Broadway debut came in 1954 in “The Girl in Pink Tights,” choreographed by Agnes de Mille. The duo, initially known as the Hines Brothers, later evolved into Hines, Hines & Dad with the inclusion of their father in 1963. They performed frequently at the Apollo Theater in New York City and were celebrated for their performances in clubs across the United States and Europe, as well as on television shows like The Tonight Show.
Maurice Hines’ individual career also flourished. He was nominated for a Tony Award in 1986 for Best Actor in a Musical for “Uptown … It’s Hot!” and reprised his Broadway presence in 2006’s “Hot Feet.” He was both the brain and the force behind these productions, taking on the roles of conceiver, director, and choreographer.
The relationship between Maurice and Gregory Hines, however, was not without its complexities. They experienced a significant falling out, leading to a decade-long period of non-communication, the reasons for which Maurice chose not to disclose publicly. This rift was evident in their lives, including a poignant moment during their mother’s wedding when they did not speak to each other. They eventually reconciled before Gregory’s death from cancer in 2003 at age 57.
In addition to his Broadway accomplishments, Maurice Hines is remembered for his roles in films, notably alongside Gregory in “The Cotton Club” (1984), where their real-life brotherly dynamic was brought to the screen in an improvised fashion.
His contributions to the arts extended beyond performance. He was the co-director and choreographer on the national tour of Louis Armstrong’s biography “Satchmo.” He also directed, choreographed, and starred in a national tour of “Harlem Suite,” featuring several popular artists.
In 2013, Maurice paid tribute to Gregory with “Tappin’ Thru Life: An Evening With Maurice Hines,” a show that toured in cities including Boston, New York, and Washington.
Hines’ legacy is marked by his contributions to the world of dance and theater, his dynamic partnership with his brother, and his resilience in navigating the complexities of familial and professional life. His passing leaves a void in the performing arts community, where he was revered for his talent, creativity, and passion for the arts.
Maurice Hines is survived by his nephew, Zach, and niece, Daria. His life, spanning over seven decades in show business, has been celebrated by peers and admirers, including actress-dancer-choreographer Debbie Allen, who paid her respects in a heartfelt post.
