| It Happened in Harlem | |
| Director: | Bud Pollard |
| Studio: | All-American News |
| Country: | United States |
It Happened in Harlem is an American musical comedy film directed by Bud Pollard[1] and starring Chris Columbus, Phil Gomez, and Nicky O'Daniel.[2] The film was partly shot at Smalls Paradise and released in 1945.
The film includes performances by various musical acts including Dotty Rhodes and "Pitter-Patter" Pitts (Juanita Pitts). Rhodes was a dancer at the Cotton Club.[3] Pitts was a female tap dancer who dressed and danced like a man.[4]
The 30-minute film relies on a thin plot to showcase various performers.[5] Stills and advertising for the film survive.[6]
A very popular singer is drawing large crowds to his Smalls Paradise performances when he receives his draft notice. Ed Smalls then begins the task of auditioning someone to replace him. A somewhat unknown young singer with a loyal following tries to audition for the job but is not considered. One of his very loyal fans goes to Smalls to convince the owner to give the young man a chance.[2]