Rare Footage of the Legendary ‘Mr. Bojangles’ Teaching Shirley Temple the Stair Dance – Does Anyone Remember?

Bill “Bojangles” Robinson was a pioneering African American tap dancer and actor, renowned for his immense contributions to the art of tap dancing. Born in Richmond, Virginia, he began his professional dancing career at just five years old. Known for his elegance, precision, and speed, Robinson’s style revolutionized tap dance, incorporating intricate footwork that became his signature. He often performed with his hands in his pockets to highlight his exceptional footwork.

Rising to fame in the early 20th century, Robinson became one of the most celebrated tap dancers of his era, with notable performances in films like the 1935 classic The Little Colonel.

In this iconic scene, Robinson is joined by none other than Shirley Temple, one of the most beloved child stars of the 1930s. Known for her curly hair, angelic smile, and effervescent personality, Temple was often cast in roles that showcased her singing and dancing talents.

Though Robinson passed away in 1949 and Temple in 2014, the magic of their performance lives on in this rare film, the only one featuring “The King of Tap” dancing alongside the “Little Princess of Hollywood.”