Princess Orelia Benskina
Princess Orelia Benskina, a renowned dancer and choreographer from Panama, captivated Harlem's stages and later ventured into music production and poetry. Her legacy celebrates Afro-Caribbean and African American culture, honored by the American Heritage Award in 1972.
Biography
Princess Orelia Benskina, born Margarita Orelia Benskina in 1911 to Barbadian parents in the Panama Canal Zone, moved to Harlem in 1922. She became a prominent dancer in the vibrant Harlem Renaissance, performing at iconic venues like the Cotton Club and the Apollo Theater. Benskina starred in the 1934 Broadway production "Dance with Your Gods" and gained fame for her "African" and "Afro-Cuban" dance performances, often touring with her partner Pedro. By the 1950s, she had ventured into music production, managing the jazz band Les Jazz Modes, and co-composed songs for Charlie Rouse's albums. She also published poetry and was honored with the American Heritage Award in 1972. Benskina earned a degree in African Studies from Queens College in 1983. She passed away in 2002, leaving behind a legacy that bridged Afro-Caribbean and African American cultural expressions.
Her Publications
The inflammable desire to rebel: Poems: (1973)
I Thank You, Father: Peace - It's Wonderful : Prose and Poems (1976)
To Whom It May Concern or Hello, Someone's Darling (1978)
Her Legacy
1911
Born in Colón, Panama, on March 16, 1911
*Other sources state 1915 as her birth date
1930's
1940's
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Started the biggest performances of her career
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Shared the bill with Louis Armstrong and others at Connie Immerman’s club, Connie’s Inn
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Performed as an ensemble cast member of the 1934 Broadway production Dance with Your Gods starring Lena Horne and worked as a backup dancer in other Broadway performances.
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Performed at New York World’s Fair in 1939
1950's
Produced albums for, managed, and occasionally toured with Charlie Rouse and Julius Watkins’ band, Les Jazz Modes.
1972
The JFK Library for Minorities honored her with their American Heritage Award.
1983
Both she and her daughter Pearl Quintyne graduated from Queens College.
2002
Benskina passed away in 2002 and was buried alongside her daughter Pearl.
