Charles Augins, Legendary Choreographer, Dies at 81

Charles Augins, Acclaimed Performer and Choreographer, Dies at 81

Awareness of the passing of Charles Augins at the age of 81, after filmmaker Courtney Baker-Oliver confirmed his death as an artist and teacher nothing less than amazing.

Augins made long lasting contributions to the entertainment industry both onscreen and on stage. Fans will remember him as the choreographer for the "Magic Dance" scene from the 1986 film Labyrinth with David Bowie. He also portrayed Queeg 500 in the cult sci-fi comedy series Red Dwarf.

Augins was born in Virginia in 1943, trained in classical ballet and began working in the arts as a dancer. He had many roles in the arts, as a performer, choreographer, and teacher. With those contributions he received recognition, including the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Choreographer in 1991 for Five Guys Named Moe.

A Minority Trailblazer in Arts Education

Long before his career flourished, a teenage Augins was breaking ground and crossing boundaries as the first Black student accepted to Washington & Lee High School in Virginia, with approval from his school principal.

He would go on to forge further—he received a scholarship to train in ballet, in a time when there were still separate programs for dance, and he moves from student to the Chair of the Dance Department at Duke Ellington School of the Arts—showing full-circle dedication to inclusive arts education. Many of his former students express that his guidance had an impact on their careers

Courtney Baker-Oliver, a filmmaker and previous student of Charles Augins, wrote a lovely tribute on her Instagram. In her post, Baker-Oliver referred to Augins as a legendary choreographer, actor, and vocal artist, as well as “one of my most important mentors” referring to her personal loss from his passing.  Her tribute reflected on the great impact Augins had in her life and career.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Courtney Oliver (@courtneybakeroliver)

A Multi-Talented Career in Film, Television, and Music

Augins was not only successful as a theatrical actor and dancer but as a filmmaker, and participant on film and television in many productions. In Labyrinth he not only choreographed one of the movie's most iconic and memorable scenes but also performed a puppet character as a voice over. He played an important role in establishing the film's groundbreaking look.

In Red Dwarf Augins's portrayal of Queeg 500 on the 1988 episode entitled "Queeg", still remains a fan favorite and cult classic performance. He also helped to choreograph the famous "Tongue Tied" dance sequence from Red Dwarf, and it remains a memorable moment for dedicated fans.

As well as acting and choreography, Augins was involved in music. He recorded vocal tracks on a number of pop recordings, including work with the singer Amii Stewart. In the 1980's, he recorded his own solo label recording, a cover of "Baby I Need Your Loving".

His filmography also includes minor roles in Revenge of the Pink Panther, The Tall Guy, and a few others, but while he had fewer onscreen roles than his stage work, his onscreen work highlighted the depth and breadth of his talent.

Tributes from those in the arts community have recognized his influence and generosity, describing him as inspirational and kind. Many of those who have worked with Augins stated he was a person who brought the same energy and care to every project.