James Berry

James Gerald Berry (July 9, 1915 – January 28, 1969), also known as Bubbles, was an American actor and dancer. He featured in several silent films as a child, and starred in the Berry Brothers dance duo (later a trio) alongside his brothers.

As a child, Berry and his older brother Ananias (Nyas) began performing dance routines together. The family moved to Hollywood, Los Angeles, and Berry began acting in silent comedy films with the Century Film Corporation. He formed the Berry Brothers dance duo with Nyas in the 1920s, and they were later joined by their younger brother Warren. The brothers starred in several Broadway shows together, and featured in films through the 1930s and 1940s.

Early life James Gerald Berry was born on July 9, 1915, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Ananais and Redna Berry.

As a child, Berry and his older brother Ananais (Nyas) began touring the church circuit in Chicago, reciting poems by Paul Laurence Dunbar. Berry was then given the stage name "Bubbles" due to his "effervescent antics" on screen.

While working for Century, Berry starred in several Buddy Messinger-led projects, such as the 1924 films Low Bridge and Don't Fall. In the same year, he starred in Century's film Speed Boys alongside Spec O'Donnell and Arthur Trimble.

Berry Brothers

In the 1920s, the Berry Brothers dancing duo was officially formed by James and his brother Nyas. They specialised in tap dance (although never wore tap shoes) and combined strutting with acrobatic techniques. The show also starred Valaida Snow, who later married Nyas. Following their marriage, Nyas left the act and was replaced by Berry's younger brother Warren. The brothers later formed a trio after Nyas's marriage to Snow fell apart. They starred in Star Time at the Majestic Theatre in 1944.

In 1941, the brothers starred in the MGM musical Lady Be Good. In 1942, they featured in Panama Hattie. In 1948, they starred in Boarding House Blues.

Later career Following Nyas Berry's death in 1951, the two remaining brothers continued performing as a duo and individually. In 1987, footage of Berry recreating his 1920s routines was featured in Dehn's documentary The Spirit Moves.

Personal life On January 28, 1969, Berry died in New York from arteriosclerosis.

Acting credits Film

Stage