HARLEM IN HAVANA NYC – Saturday, May 9
One Epic Day. Two Legendary Venues. Two Unforgettable Events.
STEP RIGHT UP, FOLKS, into a world of history, glamour, and live performance on Saturday, May 9, 2026, as HARLEM IN HAVANA NYC presents an unforgettable documentary event across two iconic New York venues. Get ready to immerse yourself in the New York premiere of the documentary film JIG SHOW | Leon Claxton’s Harlem in Havana, bringing the legendary Harlem in Havana revue to life on the big screen. Then, as the night unfolds, experience the dazzling Brown Skin Showgirls Harlem in Havana Tribute Show, a live stage celebration of the music, dance, and showmanship that defined a legacy. * Venues will be announced soon!
NYC | 1–3:30 PM | Free
Step behind the velvet curtain for the New York premiere of JIG SHOW | Leon Claxton’s Harlem in Havana, a documentary by award-winning filmmaker Leslie Cunningham. Dive into a sizzling, untold chapter of American entertainment — where Black brilliance, Cuban rhythm, and early burlesque lit up the big top and defied segregation. Through rare footage and intimate storytelling, JIG SHOW uncovers the hidden legacy of impresario Leon Claxton, whose revue fused Black and Latin artistry during the Jim Crow era. Post-screening Art Talk with cast, and a special pop-up burlesque performance!
NYC | 7:30 PM | Free , 18+
As night falls, the stage ignites with Brown Skin Showgirls: A Harlem in Havana Tribute Show — a live, high-voltage celebration where history, fantasy, and sensuality collide. Headlined by Miss Exotic World, Jessabelle Thunder, this immersive burlesque experience revives Leon Claxton’s iconic revue, celebrating the Black and Latin performers who broke barriers and redefined glamour. Journey through 1940s Black Burlesque, 1950s Afro-Cuban Rhythm, and 1960s Bold Drag & Seductive Striptease in a dazzling, unashamedly show-stopping spectacle.
Full cast to be announced soon!
JESSABELLE THUNDER: Since 2009, Jessabelle Thunder has captivated audiences worldwide with her signature blend of power, playfulness, and magnetic stage presence. Crowned Miss Exotic World, Queen of Burlesque at the Burlesque Hall of Fame, she’s headlined across 11 countries—including tours in Japan and Australia with Tito Bonito—and shared stages with Lizzo and Dita Von Teese. Named one of the Top 10 Most Influential Performers by 21st Century Burlesque Magazine, Jessabelle’s striking musicality, cheeky sass, and radiant passion light up every stage she touches.
Our Stage Managers and Kittens are proudly sponsored by The New York School of Burlesque.
Our Individual Donors
Thank you to our gracious donors:
LEGACY PRODUCERS:
Frances Rivera
IMPRESARIO CIRCLE:
Qu’in de la Noche
“Step Right UP” sUPPORTER:
Kate Bellody
Proudly Sponsored by:
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We are actively seeking business sponsors and individual donors who believe in the power of arts, culture, history, and community impact. Partnering with Harlem in Havana NYC offers meaningful visibility, strong brand alignment with a landmark cultural project, and unique opportunities to engage with diverse, multigenerational audiences. To explore our sponsorship packages and individual donor levels, please click here.
Email us at info@harleminhavana.com.
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HARLEM IN HAVANA 