Alice Barker, now 102-years-old, has had the opportunity, for the first time ever, to see videos of herself dancing in a chorus line. Alice danced during the famous Harlem Renaissance that took place during both the 1930’s and 1940’s. Dubbed “Chicken Little,” she reminisced on the olden days of her dancing career.  She explained that whenever she was asked what she wanted to eat, she’d reply chicken and so she became known as “Chicken Little.”

Memorabilia had been lost over the years and the three “soundies”, short movie clips with sound, that were presented to her were the first time she’d seen herself in action. She’s preformed alongside legendary music figures such as Frank Sinatra and Gene Kelly in famous clubs such as The Apollo and Cotton Club.

Now in a nursing home in Brooklyn, New York, Alice has relived her youth. “It don’t mean a thing if you ain’t got that swing,” says Alice Barker.  The people who brought the soundies to Alice were workers at the nursing home.  One man, David Shuff, volunteers with his therapy dogs and works with Alice in the nursing home.  Historian Mark Cantor worked with Alicia Thompson, jazz enthusiast, to dig up the old films.  Alicia has been looking for Alice for years.

The staff at the nursing home has been showing Alice’s movies to the other residents and she has become a local star.  They are asking that the general public send Alice letter or cards to give her the recognition and love she has deserved after all these years. If you care to send a card or note, send to this address:

Alice Barker
c/o Bishop Henry B. Hucles Episcopal Nursing Home
835 Herkimer Street
Brooklyn, NY11233