Biography

Out of an unprecedented 15 nominations, he won eight Tony Awards, more than any other director and/or choreographer (one more win than Bob Fosse). His wins: as Best Choreographer, in 1949 for "Lend an Ear;" and in 1981 for "42nd Street;" and as Best Director (Musical) and Best Choreographer, in 1961 for "Bye, Bye Birdie;" in 1964 for "Hello, Dolly!;" and in 1968 for "The Happy Time." He had seven other nominations: as Best Director (Musical), in 1962 for "Carnival;" in 1967 for "I Do! I Do!;" and 1981 for "42nd Street;" and as Best Director (Musical) and Best Choreographer, in 1973 for "Sugar;" in 1975 for "Mack and Mabel;"

Father, with Marge Champion, of sons Gregg Champion and Blake Champion.

Dancer, actor, choreographer and director. Joined in 1945 with Marjorie Belcher (aka Marjorie Bell) to form the dance team of "Gower & Bell," renaming the team "Marge and Gower Champion" upon their marriage.

Gower's last project was director of the original 1980 stage version of "42nd Street". He died the afternoon of the premiere of the musical. His death was not announced until after the performance. The cast had not heard the news until then.

With fellow teenager Jeanne Tyler, formed the dance team Gower & Jeanne.