Rod Dunbar has relished a life in the theatre. As a boy from Rockhampton he ventured south to Sydney and quickly established himself as an in-demand vocalist.

He became a regular on channel 7's SING SING SING, hosted by Johnny O'Keefe. Rod toured the country, doing gigs with other high profile entertainers and attracted attention everywhere, due to national exposure through the new medium of television.

Looking to expand the possibilities of his career, Rod was soon spotted by J.C. Williamson's Betty Pounder - and encouraged to pursue a career in musical theatre. Early work consisted of Rodgers & Hammerstein's CINDERELLA, THE BOYS FROM SYRACUSE and OLIVER; growing into an extensive career performing in productions of CHICAGO, COMPANY and MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG for the Sydney Theatre Company, tours of ARE YOU LONESOME TONIGHT, SOUTH PACIFIC, BIG RIVER and SHOUT - his most recent performance being DIRTY DANCING. Along the way he experienced personal triumphs in the Original Australian productions of a YOU'RE A GOOD MAN CHARLIE BROWN and GODSPELL.

I spent a delightful Sunday afternoon with Rod as he reflected on an extensive career and offered advice on the longevity behind it. And reflected on the disappointment, when an industry you love, retires you. He is a font of knowledge and an engaging raconteur.

Ladies and gentlemen - Mr Rod Dunbar