They were the most captivating dancing pair ever in the annals of musical history. No other dancing team had their charisma, chemistry or touch of elegance. This magical combination of Fred and Ginger saved RKO studios from bankruptcy.

In 1933 Fred Astaire signed with RKO. Before that, he and his sister Adelle were stars of the London and Broadway theaters. When Adelle married and retired from the stage, Fred began his career in movies. He found he needed a new dancing partner.

The partner-to-be was at RKO. The timing could not have been more perfect - The magic was just beginning. Ginger Rogers already had a distinguished career as an actress, but was now destined for something new.

The two began casting their magic spell in "Flying Down to Rio" in 1933. Their dancing enchanted audiences, especially with their "Carioca" number. Their third picture was "Roberta", made in 1935. This confirmed them as an established team, and started the "Fred and Ginger" vogue.

Of the nine films this charming duo made at RKO, "Top Hat" was the funniest and reputedly the best. The comedy was superb, the musical numbers splendidly staged. Fred's solo "No Strings" was especially beguiling. Other delights were "Isn't This a Lovely Day" and "Top Hat, White Tie and Tails". which became Fred's signature.

Astaire and Rogers' dancing to "Cheek to Cheek" was the absolute ultimate in style and grace. The mesmerizing dancing, blended with the wonderful music, showed a smoothness never matched. It was extremely dramatic, sweeping, and emotionally moving.

Ginger Rogers' delightful singing set the mood for the "Piccolino", the finale of this sparkling gem. Most noticeable was the way Fred and Ginger moved, responded and looked at each other. The chemistry, class and elegance they had were unmatched.

The Magic of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers will never disappear.