Gene Kelly dance number Close Reading

The dance number "Moses Supposes" displays a series of humorous movements made by two abominable men which implies the childish personalities of the dancers themselves. The song starts out slow with the two men singing "Moses Supposes" repeatedly then suddenly changes into an entertaining dance ensemble where the two men proceed to flail their arms and meander their bodies across the stage. There are even instances in which they place a window curtain over another man's head and even put absurd things such as paintings and lamp shades upon the mans lap. These acts of silliness suggest an inner three year old in each of the men who seem to be much alike. The frequent synchronized dance steps between the two men emphasize the similarities between the two personalities. A contrasting factor which has seemed to be added into the musical number is a man in which Gene Kelly and his partner use as a prop. The "prop" is dressed in a nicer suit, compared to Gene Kelly and his partner, and seems to be much more calm as things are thrown in his face. This bland "prop" highlights the adolescent actions of Gene Kelly and his partner. The obnoxious, "out there" moves of Gene Kelly and his partner implies the similarity between the two characters in the play as well as their inability to grow out of their adolescent self.