Patrick Wayne Swayze, better known by his stage name Patrick Swayze, was an American actor, dancer, and singer best known for his portrayals in romantic, tough, and humorous roles. He was born on August 18, 1952.
In 1979, Patrick Swayze made his movie debut as “Ace” in Skatetown, U.S.A. Skatetown, U.S.A. is a 1979 American comedy musical movie released to capitalize on the roller disco craze.
The film, directed by William A. Levey, contains several 1960s and 1970s television stars, including Scott Baio, Flip Wilson, Maureen McCormick, Ron Palillo, and Ruth Buzzi. Patrick Swayze’s first leading role was as the skater ‘Ace’ in the film. Sydney Lassick, Billy Barty, and Playboy centerfold model Dorothy Stratten round out the cast.
A rivalry between two skaters culminates in a contest one evening at Skatetown, U.S.A., a Los Angeles roller disco. The winning prize is $1000 and a moped. The two rivals become buddies during a game of chicken on motorized roller skates.
The setting is inspired by Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace, a disco roller rink that first opened on Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood in 1979 and became a famous celebrity hangout for a short time. Between extensive roller skating sequences and musical performances, the film incorporates various short, broadly comic, and slapstick subplots (such as a prank involving itching powder).
