I was christened Tula Ellice Finklea.

I think, however, that Astaire's coordination is better than Kelly's... his sense of rhythm is uncanny. Kelly, on the other hand, is the stronger…

— Cyd Charisse

The music changed. We had Irving Berlin and Gershwin and Lerner and Loewe and Cole Porter. Great music. Now we have 'Rent.'

— Cyd Charisse

Well, I don't like hats, never wear 'em.

— Cyd Charisse

People who think they're making a fool of themselves on the dance floor usually do.

— Cyd Charisse

I dance every day and my legs are in good shape.

— Cyd Charisse

Unless you have the right legs, these mini-skirts are ungainly and uncomfortable. They're just a fad.

— Cyd Charisse

Everybody can learn to dance. If they can walk, they can dance.

— Cyd Charisse

I'm a dancer and when I walk off stage there isn't a dry spot on me. This means my hair has to be put…

— Cyd Charisse

The Roman goddess Diana, you know, is usually shown with a bow and arrow. Every first-year Latin student knows that. I still remember the…

— Cyd Charisse

I'll stay with movies as long as they keep me in Hollywood.

— Cyd Charisse

To make a man happy, treat him like a dog - plenty of affection and a loose leash.

— Cyd Charisse

I danced with the Ballet Russe in Paris when I was 16 and did not need a companion.

— Cyd Charisse

I have never been extroverted.

— Cyd Charisse

When I dance, people are watching for a slight mistake. I don't want them to see any.

— Cyd Charisse

If I have any strength as a dancer, I got it all from Nijinska. Her barre was tough, and there were very difficult combinations.

— Cyd Charisse