Lucille "Sweets" Preston: History in Motion

Sunday, November 22nd at 2:00pm

Sharon Preston-Folta, author of Little Satchmo: Living in the Shadow of My Father, Louis Daniel Armstrong and subject of the documentary Little Satchmo, this inaugural History in Motion event explores the rich legacy of Black Vaudeville through the story of her mother, Lucille "Sweets" Preston.

While Louis Armstrong's remarkable career is well documented, less is known about Lucille Preston, one of the many talented performers who helped shape the Chitlin' Circuit and Black Vaudeville during the 1930s and 1940s. Known for their "Flash Acts," these variety performances entertained audiences before the headlining act and played a vital role in American entertainment history.

Through storytelling, dance, and historical context, Flash Acts in Black Vaudeville honors Lucille Preston and the performers who were her friends, collaborators, and sources of inspiration. This influential movement helped lay the foundation for many forms of popular entertainment, including modern hip-hop culture. Join us for the first iteration of this creative project celebrating the artists, stories, and legacy of a transformative era in American performance history.

Visionary: Sharon Preston-Folta
Director: Leymis Bolaños Wilmott
Choreographer: Monessa Salley

Produced by the GPAC