Tharp’s interest in Joel’s music dates back to the 1970s, when she was attracted to the energy of his melodies. She’d been dancing to his tunes in her studio for years when her son, who is also general manager of her dance group, finally suggested that she create a work based on Joel’s music. She loved the idea and had a hunch that the songs, filled with emotional stories and specific characters, would work perfectly. But before approaching the songwriter with her plan, Tharp wanted to be certain.

She gathered six dancers, all of whom would later lead the Broadway cast, and choreographed a handful of songs. She videotaped them, tracked Joel down through his agent and invited him to her apartment to watch the tape. Immediately after watching the performance he agreed to the project. He was moved when he saw his imaginary, song-based characters come to life. The next day he sent Tharp a package which contained recordings of all his songs- as well as permission to used whichever ones she chose.