Remembering Tap Dancer Leonard Reed (1907-2004)

A tribute and fan site for tap dancer Leonard Reed, who was perhaps most well kown as being the co-creator of the Shim Sham shimmy, a popular tap dance and swing dance routine commonly known as simply the "Shim Sham".

NAME: Leonard Reed
DATE OF BIRTH: January 7, 1907
PLACE OF BIRTH: Lightning Creek, Oklahoma, United States
DATE OF DEATH: April, 5, 2004 (at age 97)
PLACE OF DEATH: West Covina, California, United States
WIFE: Barbara Reed

Leonard Reed is perhaps most well-knwon for co-creating along with dance partner Willie Bryant a dance routine known as the Shim Sham Shimmy, as a grand finale for for their 1920's dance act.

He also produced shows on Broadway and at the Cotton Club in Harlem, New York city.

He served as the master of ceremonies at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, New yrok for many years.

Leonard Reed was presented with a lifetime achievement award by the American Music Awards in 2000.

Leonard Reed was presented with an honorary Doctor of Performing Arts in American Dance degree from Oklahoma City University in 2002.

Resources

Britannica Encylopedia "Leonard Reed" Article

Wikipedia "Leonard Reed" Article

New York Times Leonard Reed Obituary