Charleston dancer Josephine Baker

Oti Mabuse's Dancing Legends

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2+ y ago 28:38

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Swing dancer and choreographer Ryan Francois joins Oti Mabuse to talk about his career and dancing inspiration. Ryan created the dance routine The Jitterbug Stroll, popular with Lindy Hop dancers. He also worked as a specialist Charleston choreographer on the Strictly Come Dancing show.

For Ryan, when he looks at Charleston and Jazz , there is only one name who epitomises what the dance genre is all about- Josephine Baker.

Baker became a cultural icon in France during the 1920s and 1930s and had headline shows across Europe. Her impact is still felt nearly fifty years after her death, and her style is recognised by modern entertainers.

Ryan and Oti delve into the life of this dancing legend with archive clips and the expert help of author Sherry Jones.

Oti also joins choreographer Jenny Thomas in the dance studio to have a go at Charleston dancing in the style of Josephine Baker.

Presenter: Oti Mabuse Producer: Candace Wilson Production Team: Emily Knight and Rema Mukena Editors: Kirsten Lass and Chris Ledgard A BBC Audio Bristol production for BBC Radio 4

20 episodes

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