Imogen Claire was a British actress, dancer, and choreographer best known for her roles in films like The Music Lovers, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and Billy Elliot. Born in London in 1943, she trained at the Royal Ballet School, starting her career in dance before moving into film and theater.
Personal and Family Life
Imogen Claire was born in London and dedicated many years to her craft, training at esteemed institutions like the Royal Ballet School and the London Dance Theatre. She was in a long-term relationship with John Rothenberg, whom she married in 1992 after being a couple for over twenty years. Throughout her career, she worked closely with theater designer and director Philip Prowse, incorporating her skills in both acting and choreography in their productions.
Career Achievements
Imogen was particularly recognized for her work in avant-garde films and musicals under the direction of Ken Russell. She participated in several notable productions, including Tommy and Lisztomania, and became a familiar face in cult cinema. Her contributions extended beyond performance as she was actively involved in union politics, being the first choreographer elected to Equity’s council in 1994, where she advocated for dancers’ rights and safety.
Death and Legacy
Imogen Claire passed away on June 24, 2005, in London after a long battle with cancer. Her legacy includes her remarkable contributions to film and theatre, as well as her advocacy for the welfare of dancers. She is remembered not only for her performances but also for her commitment to improving the conditions for those in the arts.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| I Hired a Contract Killer | 1990-10-12 | Secretary |
| Lisztomania | 1975-10-10 | George Sand |
| Salome’s Last Dance | 1988-05-06 | 2nd Nazarean |
| Savage Messiah | 1972-06-27 | Mavis Coldstream |
| The Lair of the White Worm | 1988-09-21 | Dorothy Trent |
| Great | 1975-03-17 | |
| Dance of the Seven Veils | 1970-02-15 | |
| Hell on Earth: The Desecration & Resurrection of The Devils | 2002-11-24 | Self |
| Wilt | 1989-05-12 | Party Guest |
| The Rocky Horror Picture Show | 1975-08-14 | The Transylvanians |
| Henry VIII and His Six Wives | 1972-07-13 | Maria de Salinas |
| Shock Treatment | 1981-08-21 | Wardrobe Mistress |
| Hussy | 1980-05-01 | Imogen |
| Billy Elliot | 2000-09-28 | Tutor 1 |
| Phoelix | 1979-08-01 | |
| The Boy Friend | 1971-12-16 | Dancer (uncredited) |
| The Music Lovers | 1971-02-12 | Lady in White (uncredited) |
| The Devils | 1971-07-16 | Nun (uncredited) |
| Tommy | 1975-03-19 | Nurse at the Specialist’s Practice (uncredited) |
| Flash Gordon | 1980-09-01 | Special Movement |
| Caravaggio | 1986-08-29 | Lady with the Jewels |
| Hotel Splendide | 2000-09-21 | Image & Voice of Mrs Blanche |
| The Man Who Cried | 2000-08-29 | Audition Mistress |
| In Dreams | 1992-12-23 | Receptionist |
| Lovejoy | 1986-01-10 | Stall Holder |
| Clouds of Glory | 1978-07-09 | Spectre |