Bill “Bojangles” Robinson was an African American tap dancer and actor who is best known for his contributions to the art of tap dancing. He was born in Richmond, Virginia, and began dancing professionally at the age of five. His style of tap dancing was known for its elegance, precision, and speed.

Robinson was one of the first dancers to incorporate complex footwork into his performances, and he often performed with his hands in his pockets to showcase his footwork. He rose to prominence in the early 20th century and became one of the most famous tap dancers of his time, in part due to performances in movies like the one shown in this clip, 1935’s The Little Colonel.

Robinson’s partner in this scene is none other than Shirley Temple, who was also one of the most famous actresses in the 1930s. She was known for her curly hair, cherubic smile, and upbeat personality, and was often cast in roles that required her to sing and dance.

Sadly, Robinson died in 1949 and Shirley died in 2014. But luckily for us, their incredible dancing is preserved in this film–the only one that has “The King of Tap” performing with the “Little Princess of Hollywood.”

In the rare footage of Robinson and Temple dancing together, we see Robinson teaching Temple a famous tap dance routine known as the Stair Dance. This routine involves intricate footwork and coordination as the dancers move up and down a set of stairs, tapping their way through the routine with precision and grace.

The chemistry between Robinson and Temple is undeniable, as they effortlessly dance together in perfect synchronization. Robinson’s smooth moves and Temple’s infectious energy make for a captivating performance that is a true joy to watch.

The Stair Dance routine is a testament to Robinson’s incredible talent and innovation in the world of tap dancing. His influence on the art form is undeniable, and his legacy lives on through performances like this one.

It’s heartwarming to see two legendary performers coming together to create such a memorable moment on screen. The joy and passion they bring to their performance is truly timeless, and serves as a reminder of the power of dance to bring people together and uplift the spirit.

As we watch this rare footage of Robinson and Temple dancing the Stair Dance, we are reminded of the magic of classic Hollywood and the incredible talent that graced the silver screen during that era. It’s a reminder of the rich history of entertainment and the impact that performers like Robinson and Temple had on audiences around the world.

So, who remembers this iconic dance routine? Let’s celebrate the legacy of these two legendary performers and the joy they continue to bring to audiences through their timeless performances. Their talent, passion, and dedication to their craft will always be remembered and cherished by fans of all ages.