I wrote this post for another blog 2009 after the death of Ross Coleman. Newspaper tributes described a full and productive life but only his performances can capture his energy and love of dance.
Here on Billy Thorpe’s It’s all Happening, broadcast on the Seven Network in the late 60s, a 17 yo RC can be seen dancing behind Stevie Wright, also about 17 yo, as the Easybeats perform She’s So Fine. Check out his inimitable take on gogo dancing.
RC also worked both as choreographer and dancer, as a teenager, for Bandstand hosted by Brian Henderson. In big demand, he was everywhere in the late 60s.
His TV appearances began as a child with this performance as an original Happy Little Vegemite. This is the second of a series of ads he appeared in for the iconic spread.
His later choreographical work included Pippin and Priscilla Queen of the Desert which will debut on Broadway shortly.
FYI the dark haired guitarist on the left in the first video clip is George Young, older brother of Angus and Malcolm. And the blonde lead guitarist is Harry Vanda. Vanda and Young went on to become influential figures in the Australian music industry.
