Choreographer Louis DaPron; Film, Television Dance Director
Louis DaPron, a choreographer for many of the musical films that starred Donald O’Connor and Peggy Ryan in the 1940s who then moved to television as dance director and choreographer on the “Colgate Comedy Hour,” “Texaco Star Theatre” and “The Perry Como Show,” has died, it was learned this week.
DaPron, 74, suffered a heart attack and died July 21 at his home in Agoura.
Born in Denver to parents who operated dancing schools, DaPron came to Hollywood with plans to be a performer. He landed a $350-a-week contract with Paramount Studios based on his dancing skills but “just couldn’t act,” he told The Times in 1984.
He next worked as assistant dance director for Leroy Prinz and coached Ruby Keeler in her last musical film before becoming O’Connor’s coach and choreographer.
Throughout his life he alternated between films, TV and teaching, and in 1954 was nominated for an Emmy for a “Texaco Star Theatre” special.
Survivors include his wife, Sue, a daughter and two grandchildren.
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