A tribute to the incomparable Dick Van Dyke simply wouldn’t be complete without a little chimney-sweeping magic! The 2021 Kennedy Center Honors delivered one of its most memorable and heartwarming segments, paying homage to the legendary entertainer with a spectacular performance of “Step in Time” from the beloved film Mary Poppins.
The dazzling routine, executed by Dancing with the Stars titans Derek Hough and Mark Ballas, was a masterclass in nostalgic choreography, and the sheer joy of the moment genuinely left Dick Van Dyke in tears.
Dick Van Dyke lauded in Kennedy Center Honors | TV Tonight
The Perfect Tribute: A Little Chimney Sweeping
For a performer whose career spans film, television, and Broadway, choosing the perfect tribute piece is a challenge. But the energetic, intricate, and instantly recognizable “Step in Time” proved to be the ideal choice. The segment brilliantly captured the infectious fun and physical comedy that defined Van Dyke’s role as Bert, the chimney sweep.
The tribute began with a nod to the film’s atmosphere—a slightly smoky, London rooftop vibe—before exploding into the full-scale tap and acrobatics of the famous number. The performance instantly set the tone: no formality, just pure, joyous entertainment.
Hough and Ballas: A Choreographic Masterpiece
The responsibility of recreating the complex, high-energy number fell to two of the finest dancers in the industry: Derek Hough and Mark Ballas. The two professional dancers, who share a long history of training and competing together, brought their dynamic chemistry and world-class technique to the stage.
Wearing traditional chimney sweep costumes, Hough and Ballas, along with an ensemble of dancers, utilized brushes and props while executing dazzling formations. The performance was a testament to their athletic ability, featuring rapid-fire tap sequences, daring leaps, and the signature synchronized stomps of the original choreography. It was a moment where the past and present of musical theatre collided, honoring Van Dyke’s legacy while showcasing the talent of the new generation.
A Father’s Nostalgia: Dick Van Dyke’s Emotional Reaction
While the performance itself was technically stunning, the emotional peak of the evening came from the audience. As the cameras cut to Dick Van Dyke watching the tribute, his reaction was palpable. The 99-year-old icon was visibly moved, dabbing his eyes as the energetic performance unfolded before him.
Fans and commentators immediately seized on the emotional moment. It wasn’t just a nostalgic nod to a famous scene; it was a deeply personal tribute to one of the defining moments of his career. Watching the joy he brought to the screen decades ago be recreated with such passion and precision overwhelmed the honoree.
The performance served as a touching reminder of the sheer talent and enduring warmth that Dick Van Dyke has shared with the world for over seven decades. The Kennedy Center Honors segment, spearheaded by the phenomenal work of Derek Hough and Mark Ballas, confirmed that the magic of “Step in Time” is truly timeless.
Congratulations, Mr. Van Dyke! The legacy of the chimney sweep continues to dazzle.
