Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Martinus Copyright image: Mun Chor Seng.
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IN MEMORY OF A LEGENDARY DANCER FROM SINGAPORE
Just past the middle of August 2022, Vernon Martinus turned 90 years old.
He had been frail and was in the advanced stages of dementia, unable to recognise his loved ones. Sadly a few days later he passed away in the UK.
Together with his wife Frances Poh, they were the trail blazing power couple that promoted the ballet and art of dance to never before seen heights in Singapore.
In the 50s and early 60s doting parents would enrol their children in piano or ballet lessons. The Singapore Dance Academy was their de facto choice. Annually they would present a showcase of ballet from their pupils. It was an event that generated excitement in the arts community.
Besides dancing, Vernon had various stints in broadcasting. From the early pre Radio Singapore days at the Cathay building and Rediffusion.
He joined the fledgling TV Singapore around 1963 , as a TV producer when it had commenced operations. The two significant events he was part of were the televised broadcast by Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew announcing the break away of Singapore from Malaysia and the first televised production of the National Day Parade. Contrary to suggestions to stop the recording, he was the one that decided to continue to record the PM Lee breaking down during the historic event.Many from this era will cherish the memory of this pioneer from Singapore. May you Rest In Peace and dance with the angels , Vernon Philip Martinus.
Mr and Mrs Vernon Martinus
[This very personal tribute comes from Horace Wee. Thank you Horace for your contribution to this music blog and Mun Chor Seng for the photograph.]
