Black culture question: Black burlesque dancers like Betty Page (40s-50s)? They MUST have existed, right?

Question

Does anyone know anything AT ALL about a black burlesque scene in the 1940-50s? I've always wondered about this. How come I've never seen-- or even heard of-- a black burlesque star in the style of say, Gypsy Rose Lee, Betty Page or Lili St. Cyr? There were tons of black nightclubs, so why not black burlesque halls? Men are men, so I feel like they MUST have existed, but when I try to look into it, I find no trace.

I love that s**y/powerful/you-can't-touch-this 1940s burlesque look, but I've never seen a black woman that way.

PS: I know, I know; you want to say "Duh, Josephine Baker1!"

She was a huge star, but 1) she seems too early. I think of her more of a vaudeville star (ie: dance/sing/act/comedy). Plus, her style didn't really have that "power" thing happening, as in the 40s-50s burlesque.

Answer 1

Just being black we will be underestimated, I did hear some had to go to other countries to be known like one went to Germany.

Answer 2

This is what I've what I found:

[Quote]

Black Burlesque was never as much at the fringe of entertainment as it was for white burlesque. It held longer to the Vaudeville traditions with Harlem Renaissance associations. Burlesque showgirls were part of Cab Calloway's troupe & were featured regularly at the Cotton Club & the Savoy Ballroom & the Apollo Theater.

[End Quote]

Source: http://www.weirdwildrealm.com/f-burlesqu...

Maybe that's part of the explanation, and it seems that the "stars" were locally known but not known in general. Names mentioned are Gloria Howard, Gertrude "Baby" Banks, Mabel Hunter, Princess D'Orsey and Luella Owens.