Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, an influential African American tap dancer from Richmond, Virginia, gained fame in the early 20th century for his elegant, precise, and fast-paced style. Starting his professional career at five, he stood out by incorporating intricate footwork and often danced with hands in pockets. Robinson’s renown soared, notably with his role in the 1935 film “The Little Colonel,” co-starring with the iconic Shirley Temple, known for her curly hair and cheerful persona.
Their unique collaboration is immortalized in this film, the sole one featuring “The King of Tap” with the “Little Princess of Hollywood.” Despite Robinson’s 1949 passing and Temple’s death in 2014, their exceptional dance legacy endures. The clip encapsulates Robinson’s groundbreaking contributions to tap dancing and the charm of a bygone Hollywood era.
