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In Dahomey by Jesse A Shipp
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In Dahomey by Jesse A Shipp
In Dahomey by Jesse A. Shipp; music Will Marion Cook et. al. First produced in England at the Shaftesbury Theatre, 16th May 1903. Caption: Dont forget to see the real cake walk when it comes to your town. Dan & Charlie. The first show performed by black artistes and written almost entirely by black writers to be staged on Broadway, but it was much more successful in London Date: circa 1903
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Cake Cakes Comedies Comedy Dances Farce Farcical Panto Pantomime Revue Revues Theatrical
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In Dahomey," a groundbreaking theatrical production by Jesse A. Shipp and Will Marion Cook et al., graced the Shaftesbury Theatre stage in London on May 16, 1903. This milestone show marked the first instance of a Broadway-bound production being staged entirely by black artists and writers. Although it was eventually surpassed by other shows in terms of Broadway success, "In Dahomey" left an indelible mark on the history of popular entertainment. The image captures two jovial figures, Dan and Charlie, inviting the audience to experience the authentic "cake walk" when the show comes to their town. The cake walk, a popular dance and game of the time, involved participants parading around a circle, attempting to avoid having a cake smeared on their backs while trying to smear it on others. This lighthearted farce, along with other comedic sketches, pantomimes, and musical numbers, made "In Dahomey" a hit amongst audiences in both England and the United States. The revue-style production, filled with comedy, farce, and dance, showcased the immense talent and creativity of its black cast and writers. "In Dahomey" paved the way for future theatrical productions featuring black performers and writers, breaking down barriers and challenging the status quo in the world of popular entertainment. This photograph, taken circa 1903, offers a glimpse into a pivotal moment in the history of theatre and the arts. As you view this image, remember the significance of Dan and Charlie's invitation – don't miss the opportunity to witness the real cake walk when it comes to your town, and celebrate the groundbreaking achievements of "In Dahomey.
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