0 
The Call of The Jitterbug
| Length: | 30 min |
| Released: | 1989 |
| Ages: |
College Adult |
Buy Online Streaming
In the early 30's a dance craze swept the nation. Some called it Jitter-bug, some called it the Lindy Hop and some called it Swing dancing. Its center was Harlem's Savoy Ballroom. Here the musical giants, such as Count Basie, Benny Goodman and Cab Calloway played, while legendary dancers like Al Minns, Normal Miller and Frank Manning danced. It was the first art form that broke through the color barrier. At the Savoy, blacks and whites danced together, probably for the first time in America. Interviews with musicians and dancers, plus lively vintage footage, brings back the sights and sounds of this bygone era. The performers remember how dance was an antidote to the economic depression outside. Others recall bitter moments on the road where prejudice denied them a place to eat or spend the night.
This engaging film vividly evokes the rich past of this dance form. A lively addition for public libraries, dance collections, and black studies.
This engaging film vividly evokes the rich past of this dance form. A lively addition for public libraries, dance collections, and black studies.
"Fusing current views with enticing older footage, this wonderful nostalgia piece... honors a dance form that flourished in Harlem's bustling clubs. For public library and community group audiences." - Booklist
CINE Golden Eagle, 1989
Blue Ribbon, American Film and Video Festival, 1989
First Prize, Birmingham Educational Film Festival, 1989
National Educational Film & Video Festival, 1989
Blue Ribbon, American Film and Video Festival, 1989
First Prize, Birmingham Educational Film Festival, 1989
National Educational Film & Video Festival, 1989
