Opened: December 3, 1953

Directed by: Stanley Donen

Starring: Marge Champion, Gower Champion, Debbie Reynolds, Helen Wood, Bob Fosse, Kurt Kasznar, Richard Anderson, William Ching, Lurene Tuttle & Larry Keating

Though it’s pretty devoid of story and character development, Give a Girl a Break is charming if you’re looking for some good dance numbers.

Director-choreographer Ted Sturgis (Gower Champion) is in a pinch when the lead of his new Broadway musical quits weeks before its opening night. Trying to find a new star, he’s nervous to hire former partner Madelyn Corlane (Marge Champion) and his team offers newcomers Suzy Doolittle (Debbie Reynolds) and Joanna Moss (Helen Wood).

Just a year after Singin’ in the Rain, Reynolds proves that she can hold up with her dancing skills against formidable partners Gower Champion and a young Bob Fosse.

The women are all just being used, and each one has a man cheering her on for his personal romantic ideas. It’s an outdated story.

Final say: These girls deserve more. ★★★☆☆