Charles "Honi" Coles was a remarkable figure in the world of tap dance, known for his technical precision and high-speed style. Born in Philadelphia in 1911, Coles rose from humble beginnings to become a celebrated dancer and actor, leaving an indelible mark on the art form. His journey from street corners to the American Tap Dance Hall of Fame is a testament to his talent and dedication.
Early Life and Beginnings
Charles Coles was born on April 2, 1911, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
His father, George Coles, owned a pool hall and barbershop, while his mother, Isabel, worked as a domestic servant. Despite financial constraints, Coles found a way to pursue his passion for dance. As a child, he couldn't afford formal dance lessons, so he learned tap dancing on the streets of Philadelphia. Coles and his friends would gather on street corners, engaging in dance competitions with peers from other neighborhoods.
These informal gatherings were crucial in shaping Coles's early dance style. He and his friends mastered various dance steps, not initially considering dance as a career. However, by his late teens, Coles was determined to make a name for himself in show business. He spent a year practicing alone, honing his skills and developing a unique style characterized by speed and precision.
Rise to Fame
Coles's professional career began in 1931 when he debuted at the Lafayette Theater in New York City as part of the Three Millers. Despite an early setback when his partners replaced him, Coles returned to Philadelphia, determined to perfect his fast-step style. By 1934, he was back in New York, performing at venues like the Harlem Opera House and Apollo Theater.
Coles's reputation as a tap dancer grew, and he became known for having "the fastest feet in show business." His performances at the Hoofer's Club in Harlem solidified his status as a graceful and skilled dancer. In 1940, Coles met Charles "Cholly" Atkins, and together they formed the iconic duo Coles and Atkins. Their performances were renowned for their elegance and precision, combining various tap styles with a touch of modern dance and ballet.
Later Career and Legacy
Throughout the 1940s, Coles and Atkins toured with big bands, performing alongside legends like Cab Calloway and Louis Armstrong. However, as audience interest in tap dance waned in the 1950s, Coles adapted by opening a dance studio and later working as a stage manager at the Apollo Theater. He also served as president of the Negro Actors Guild and was involved with the Copasetics, a club dedicated to preserving the memory of tap dancer Bill "Bojangles" Robinson.
In the 1970s and 80s, Coles experienced a resurgence in popularity. He performed in the Broadway musical "My One and Only" and collaborated with Brenda Bufalino on various projects, including the Morton Gould Tap Concerto. Coles's contributions to dance were recognized with numerous awards, including the National Medal of Arts in 1991.
Charles "Honi" Coles passed away in 1992, but his legacy lives on. His influence on tap dance is undeniable, and his belief that "tap dance was the only dance art form that America could claim as its own" continues to resonate. Coles's life story is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion in the pursuit of artistic excellence.
