|
Arthur Duncan,
Tap Dancer (1966-1982)
Popular Tap Dancer On Lawrence Welk
TV Show
Arthur Duncan
is a popular tap dancer
and singer best known for his performances on the Lawrence Welk Show from 1966 to
1982.
In addition to record-setting nightclub
appearances, Duncan has appeared on national
television with other such legends as Bob Hope,
Jerry Lewis and Red Skelton. Duncan began as a
newsboy on the street corners of Pasadena and would
sing the popular songs of the day and collect coins
tossed his way. Taking a six-month sabbatical from
Pasadena City College where he was studying to be a
pharmacist, Duncan wanted to, as he says, "see what
this show business was all about." He never returned
to college, succeeding far beyond his expectations
in night club bookings, local and national
television appearances.
Duncan toured with the Jimmy Rodgers show and
starred in his own variety television show in
Australia. Then followed five years of appearances
in clubs in London, Paris, Cairo, Beirut and three
years in the winter and summer resorts of
Switzerland. Upon his return from Europe, Duncan
appeared at the Basin Street West in Los Angeles
with Lionel Hampton and was spotted by Sam Lutz,
Lawrence Welk's personal manager. His guest
appearances on the Welk program drew such an
overwhelming response that the Champagne Maestro
signed Duncan as a regular. Most recently, Duncan
was featured in the tap dance movie "TAP" with
Gregory Hines and Sammy Davis, Jr. Duncan continues
to perform across the country with fellow Welk Show
entertainers.
|