Skip to content

African-American tap dancing legend Jeni LeGon dies at 96

African-American tap dancing legend Jeni LeGon died Friday at the age of 96 at her home in Vancouver.

From the south side of Chicago, Jeni LeGon was one of the first African-American women in tap dance to develop a career as a soloist.

According to the American Tap Dance Foundation, at the age of 13, she landed her first job in musical theater, and from there danced in different shows and clubs around the world.

LeGon was known for her unique tap style and wearing pants when other female dancers at the time wore skirts.

As an African-American woman in a white dominated Hollywood, LeGon scored roles in several films, including the 1935 musical Hooray for Love.

LeGon will be remembered as one of the greatest African-American dancers ever. Performing lead roles in black films, dancing in a chorus line backed by Count Basie Orchestra, and teaching dance students, LeGon will forever be a pioneer for black performers.

https://thegrio.com/2012/12/10/african-american-tap-dancing-legend-jeni-legon-dies-at-96/

About Post Author

From the Web

Active Aging
Protect Your Joints With These 5 Safe & Effective Exercises
Protect Your Joints With These 5 Safe & Effective Exercises
activeaging
Read more
These Techniques Can Help Combat Distraction in Aging Brains
These Techniques Can Help Combat Distraction in Aging Brains
activeaging
Read more
Why Your Golden Years Are the Perfect Time for Pet Ownership
Why Your Golden Years Are the Perfect Time for Pet Ownership
activeaging
Read more
7 Dietary Supplements that Promote Healthy Aging
7 Dietary Supplements that Promote Healthy Aging
activeaging
Read more
Healthy Living | Word in Black
6 Simple Salads for a Healthier Summer
6 Simple Salads for a Healthier Summer
healthyliving
Read more
Using Fresh Spring Produce: 10 Recipes You’ll Love
Using Fresh Spring Produce: 10 Recipes You’ll Love
healthyliving
Read more
Focus on the Present: Tips for Living in the Moment
Focus on the Present: Tips for Living in the Moment
healthyliving
Read more
Ways to Move More While Working from Home
Ways to Move More While Working from Home
healthyliving
Read more
The Caregivers
Connection and Peace Flourish in This 79-Year-Old’s Community Garden
Connection and Peace Flourish in This 79-Year-Old’s Community Garden
Joyce Randolph began a small garden with her daughter in 2013. She found that gardening is good for the mind and for building community.
By renata sago
The Caregivers
Read more
Affirmations for Aging Boldly
Affirmations for Aging Boldly
With the highs and lows that come with aging, it’s helpful to have a few go-to affirmations for inner strength.
By renata sago
The Caregivers
Read more
Yes, Your Living Space Can Be a Source of Comfort and Peace
Yes, Your Living Space Can Be a Source of Comfort and Peace
Experimenting with welcoming plants and letting go of items that you no longer need can make your living space comfortable.
By renata sago
The Caregivers
Read more
Uplifting Words if You're Ever in a Funk
Uplifting Words if You're Ever in a Funk
A funk is a period of sadness that, if addressed effectively, can encourage inner healing and draw you into the fullness of who you are.
By renata sago
The Caregivers
Read more
X