Embark on a journey through the annals of time as you behold exquisite images and immerse yourself in the eloquent journal notes capturing the essence of Shirley Bates, the enchanting lead dancer of the 1940s era on Harlem in Havana. Indulge in the captivating allure of Shirley, the luminary of her time, as she graced the stages with her unparalleled artistry in chorus-style, exotic, shake, and modern dance.
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Shirley Bates Journal Notes
“It was 1939. Nobody heard of Tampa, Florida- a hick town that wasn’t on the map. Royal American Shows was the destination. Leon was owner and producer of a stage show under the tent. Carnival life was a trip. Never did like it. I would cry at rehearsal because I didn’t want people looking at me. I soon over came that, but wouldn’t dress in front of the other girls. Nuts! It was a real struggle, but I learned.
My sisters taught me how to take a bath in a foot tub and apply make up. Leon Claxton had hired a lindy-hoping team from New York that year. They had just won the dance contest called the Big Apple, a big thing in the 40s. I was so nuts about the leader, Cunningham. When his partner took sick, I got the chance to work with him in their act, besides being a chorus-girl. The following year I became the Lead dancer. I loved dancing, but I hated carnival lifestyle. Like a gypsy, it was a trip.” -Shirley Bates Johnson
Learn more about the dazzling dancer and leading soubrette Shirley Bates in the documentary film.
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Harlem in Havana Project 