Olga Burgoyne

Olga “Ollie” Burgoyne (June 13, 1878 – April 2, 1974), also known as Ollie Burgoyne-Calloway, was an American dancer, actress and businesswoman who gained popularity during the Harlem Renaissance. Although one of the lesser-known African-American figures in entertainment, she was one of the eight most significant African-American dancers and choreographers during this time, amongst Katherine Dunham, Hemsley Winfield and Edna Guy.

Biography Burgoyne started her stage career in 1901 at the early age of six when she began performing in minstrel shows. In 1903, she performed in Vaudeville with the Seven Creole Girls and in her later career, continued to perform in this genre with her own company, the Burgoyne Musical Company. As her career progressed, she explored her vaudeville talents and mastered oriental dances internationally in Germany, Turkey, France, Denmark, Switzerland, Hungary, Egypt and Sweden.

Burgoyne continued to make a name for herself through song and dance during her eight year tour of Europe. She returned to the United States in 1909. Following 1909, she crossed the Atlantic 15 times before settling in Russia. After its massive success, Burgoyne created an ongoing duet performance called "Duo Eclatant" with her partner Usher Watts. In DahomeyWritten by Bert Williams and George Walker. Toured in London in 1903 after performances in New York CityFollow Me (1923)Developed by Mamie SmithLulu Belle (1926)As Mabel De Witt (Broadway original)

Opened February 9, 1926Tired Business Man (1929)As Juanita (Broadway original)

Opened June 3, 1929Make me Know It (1929)As Mirandy (Broadway original)

Opened November 4, 1929Laughter (1930)Short film featureThe Constant Sinner (1931)As Clara (Broadway original)

Opened September 14, 1931Blessed Event (1932)As MME. Fleurette (Broadway original)

Opened February 12, 1932Run, Little Chillun (1933)The Perfumed Lady (1934)As Eva Mordecai (Broadway original)All Rights Reserved (1934)As Minnie (Broadway original

Opened November 6, 1934Kiss the Boys Good-Bye (1938)As Maime (Broadway original)

Opened September 28, 1938