Leslie Cunningham, the creative force behind The Harlem in Havana Project, premiered a dazzling culmination of a decade-long journey with the Brown Skin Showgirls Weekend, a celebration of Black Burlesque History that took place in Atlanta, Georgia during Black History Month 2024.
Cunningham’s odyssey into the heart of American entertainment history began over a decade ago with the launch of The Harlem in Havana Project, a captivating exploration of her family’s extraordinary Black and Cuban entertainment legacy. As the granddaughter of legendary African American impresario Leon Claxton, Cunningham meticulously crafted a multimedia documentary project that pays homage to her grandfather and one of America’s most triumphant traveling girl shows.
The project’s centerpiece, the documentary film “JIG SHOW | Leon Claxton’s Harlem in Havana,” unveils the untold stories of the groundbreaking Harlem in Havana Revue, defying the odds and leaving an indelible mark on Black entertainment during the era of Jim Crow.
Also chronicling the life and lore of famed Tampa showman Leon Claxton, the educational film features exclusive interviews with past performers and patrons, never-before-digitized show photographs, and captivating historical clips that celebrate the legacy of Harlem in Havana, and urges descendants of African and Cuban-Americans to embrace their past.
The decision by Cunningham to circumvent traditional festival circuits and streaming services marks a pivotal moment in film history. Now, viewers worldwide can access this essential piece of our cultural heritage at absolutely no cost. This unprecedented move ensures that the film’s profound significance reaches every corner of the globe without barriers or restrictions, emphasizing the importance of its message. Watch the film now.
Brown Skin Showgirls Weekend + The Leslie Cunningham Burlesque Education Scholarship
The Brown Skin Showgirls Weekend, held in Atlanta, GA, marked the grand finale of The Harlem in Havana multimedia documentary work, shining a spotlight on elegance, empowerment, and the mesmerizing world of Black Burlesque. Produced in collaboration with The Atlanta School of Burlesque and Black Burlesque Atlanta, the electrifying weekend featured spectacular shows, riveting films, and an immersive dive into the richness of Black Burlesque History.
Highlighting the event was the announcement of The Atlanta School of Burlesque: Leslie Cunningham Burlesque Education Scholarship, aimed at removing financial barriers and nurturing the artistic talents of promising Black performers. Administered by The Atlanta School of Burlesque, the scholarship will directly impact the lives of talented Black burlesque dancers by providing them with the tools and resources they need to flourish.
Roula, the founder and owner of the school says, “We envision a future where burlesque represents a vibrant microcosm of diversity and inclusion, and where artistic opportunities are accessible to all, regardless of their background.”
All donations from the Brown Skin Showgirls Weekend events supported the scholarship, reflecting Cunningham’s commitment to fostering the next generation of burlesque artists, a few who have already been selected as recipients of the scholarship. “Although I’ve officially completed the documentary project, I will continue to educate audiences about Harlem in Havana to ensure this incredible American entertainment legacy is remembered,” says Leslie Cunningham. “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported me on this amazing journey.”
For more information about The Harlem in Havana Project and upcoming events, visit harleminhavana.com.
To stay updated on Leslie Cunningham’s future projects, visit Lesliecunninghamfilms.com
About Leslie Cunningham:
Leslie Cunningham is a visionary artist and filmmaker dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of Black and Latin entertainment. As the granddaughter of legendary African American impresario Leon Claxton, Cunningham’s work reflects a deep passion for storytelling and cultural preservation. Through The Harlem in Havana Project, she invites audiences to embark on a mesmerizing journey into the heart of American entertainment history. Learn more.
About The Harlem in Havana Project:
The Harlem in Havana Project is a captivating exploration of one of America’s most triumphant traveling girl shows, paying homage to the legacy of producer Leon Claxton and the groundbreaking Harlem in Havana Revue. Through a multimedia documentary project, featuring the film “JIG SHOW | Leon Claxton’s Harlem in Havana,” Cunningham invites audiences to delve into the complexities of American entertainment, race history, and family.
Harlem in Havana Project 