Rufus Collins was a member of the renowned experimental theatre troupe, The Living Theatre, in the late 1960s and studied acting at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London, England, with a background in dance. In 1972, he was the choreographer for Robert Stigwood's U.

K. stage production of Jesus Christ Superstar where he worked briefly with Richard O'Brien. Lasting friendship with various persons lead to his appearance in The Rocky Horror Picture Show in 1975 and Shock Treatment in 1981.