Brown Skin Showgirls: A black and white photographic collection of burlesque, exotic, shake and chorus line dancers, strippers and cross-dre - Paperback

Historical Burlesque Photography Collection

Brown Skin Showgirls presents a rare photographic documentation of African American and Cuban performers who shaped American entertainment during the early- to mid-20th century. This black and white photography book captures the performers of Leon Claxton's Harlem in Havana Revue, preserving their contributions to burlesque, exotic dance, and popular culture.

Inside This Photography Collection

This book documents the brave women who performed exotic, rumba, salsa, calypso, and striptease during the heyday of burlesque. The collection features historically rich black and white photographs that celebrate these showgirls, chorus line dancers, and performers whose artistry influenced American entertainment. Many of these performers have transitioned or their whereabouts remain unknown, making this documentation particularly valuable for historians and collectors.

Cultural and Historical Significance

While many resources reference women of color in dance, few publications dedicate themselves solely to brown skin showgirls and black burlesque performers of this era. This collector's edition fills that gap, offering visually stunning imagery alongside historical context about the Harlem in Havana Revue. Every attempt has been made to verify the names of individuals appearing in these photographs, ensuring their legacy endures.

Book Details

Published by Createspace Independent Publishing Platform in paperback format, this photography book serves as both an art book and a cultural studies resource. Author Leslie Cunningham has compiled this collection to expand knowledge of performers who helped shape American entertainment and popular culture. The book provides documentation of African American history, dance history, and entertainment history through authentic period photography.

For Collectors and Historians

This special collector's edition appeals to those interested in vintage photography, performing arts history, and the cultural contributions of women of color to American entertainment. The photographs capture an era of performance art that remains underrepresented in historical documentation, making this book an essential addition to collections focused on 20th century African American history and burlesque culture. Visit harleminhavana.com for additional information about the Harlem in Havana Revue and these remarkable performers.