Alumni Spotlight: Christine Colby Jacques

After “making it” in New York City as a Radio City Rockette, Christine Colby Jacques’ star rose even higher when she met and auditioned for Bob Fosse. She was cast as a principal in Fosse’s 1978 Broadway production of Dancin’ (later serving as choreography reconstructor for its 2023 revival to ensure performers adhered to the “true Fosse style” since his vision has been altered many times). She was in the original Broadway cast and national tour revival of Sweet Charity (Ursula/Spender Girl) as well as the first national tour of Fosse. Screen credits include Annie, directed by John Huston, A Chorus Line, directed by Sir Richard Attenborough, music videos (Billy Joel, Barry Manilow, others), and television commercials. She has been featured in Dance Magazine twice. 

The Broadway veteran earned her BFA in Dance from KU and has served as a KU Lecturer in Dance. Christine teaches for the Verdon Fosse Legacy and has taught master classes across the U.S. and Canada. Her work may take her to some of our country’s most impressive studios and performance venues, but she always remembers her roots. “When I first came to KU, I was looking for a challenge, and I was looking for a positive experience. And, that’s what I found… I still use what I learned at KU in my own teaching and warm-up.” She met mentors who shaped her art and earned scholarships to help pay her way through college. She strongly believes “education is priceless.” 

Her career continues in dance education, and she’s frequently booked as a model and spokesperson. Christine currently lives in Kansas City.