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HARLEM IN HAVANA PROJECT

A multimedia documentary work exploring the legacy of Leon Claxton’s groundbreaking Black and Cuban traveling show that broke racial barriers and redefined entertainment.

  • Home
  • Show
    • Show: 1930s-1940s
    • Show: 1950s
    • Show: 1960s
    • Royal American Shows
  • People
    • Leon Claxton
    • Gwendolyn Bates Claxton
    • Shirley Bates
    • Mercedes Valdés and the Cuban Dancing Dolls
    • Show Performers
  • Places & Legacy
    • Cities Played
    • Tampa Influence
    • Claxton Manor Motel
  • Works
    • Poetry
      • Poetry: BROWN SKIN SHOWGIRLS
    • Photos
    • Sound
      • Harlem in Havana Mixtape
      • Joni Mitchell Influence
    • Screenplay
  • Film
    • Film Series
    • Cast & Crew
    • Film Music
    • Film Study Guide
    • More Videos
  • Exhibit
    • Exhibit: The Dolls
    • Exhibit: Calendar
    • Exhibit Bookings
  • Events
    • Harlem in HAVANA NYC 2026
    • Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekender, 2025
    • Brown Skin Showgirls Weekender 2024
    • Film Screenings
  • Education
    • Burlesque Education Classes
      • Class 1: My Grandma Was an Exotic Dancer
      • Class 2: Girl Shows
    • Scholarship
  • Books
  • News
  • About
    • Creator
    • Essay
    • Harlem in Havana Facts
    • In the Press
    • Media Kit
  • Support
    • Donate
    • Supporters
    • Shop
    • Collector’s Magazine
  • Contact & SM
    • YouTube
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    • SubStack

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  • View a list of our Supporters
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  • Contact us to learn more.

Learn About the Traveling Exhibit – Support the Legacy!

Your support helps preserve and uplift this vital history. Together, we can ensure that these performers—once hidden in the shadows of segregated America—are honored, remembered, and celebrated for generations. Donate here.

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“Harlem in Havana™” is a trademark of Leslie CunninghamTRIBES, representing documentary films, cultural exhibits, and educational programs. © 2012–2025 Harlem in Havana Project. All rights reserved. Contact: info@harleminhavana.com

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