Rock'n Roll Hits Gisborne

It swept like a tornado across America, jumped the Atlantic to startle Britain and now....Rock 'n Roll has cone to Gisborne with a vengeance.

Bill Haley's Comets, featured in the film "Rock Around The Clock" first set local teenagers' toes tapping. Then Gisborne dancer Pat Corbett, fresh from an Australian tour, followed up with classes in America's latest dance craze.

The results Controversial Rook 'n Roll has already created a big stir in the city.

A survival of American "rythmn and blues" music, Rock 'n Roll has a heavy, lilting beat that has an immediate appeal to the young. And the young people of Gisborne are certainly no exception.

Pat Corbett and Joan Phillips in "rocking" mood.

"Man," says pupil, "this is the most."

There were one or two ugly incidents. in the bigger cities when the Bill Haley film was shown. But in Gisborne, teenagers were content to tap their toes and there was no trouble. Above, two Gisborne girls study-"Rock Around The Clock" poster in foyer of the Regent Theatre.

Pat puts on another Rock 'n Roll disc.

Rock 'n Roll pupils setting in the groove

Pat, who has taught Rock 'n Roll in Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne, told "Photo News": "There was a lot of fuss and nonsense when the Charleston came out. Even Straus's waltzes were once condemned."

Pat Corbett, former professional ballroom dancing champion of N. Z., claims that Rock 'n Roll's basic step can be traced back to the Minuet.
It's much slower than jive, he says, and could be danced to a Minuet record.
"Rocking"...

.... "and rolling"

Albert Jackson & Joan Phillips demonstrate a tricky Rock 'n Roll move

Pupils soon learn Rock 'n Roll rythmn

Previous article Issue contents Next article

The Gisborne Photo News

No 30 : December 13, 1956

Rock'n Roll Hits Gisborne