Bill robinson bojangles movie gregory

History resonates with images of the smiling tap dancer in black-face, yet few know the price black performers paid to both perpetuate and, ultimately, end these "Uncle Tom" stereotypes.

Showtime launches its February Black History month celebration with "Bojangles" (Feb. 4, 8-9:45 p.m.), a movie about the man most knew as Shirley Temple's tap-dancing partner, Bill "Bojangles" Robinson.

"People will learn what a great pioneer he was for African-Americans in show business," says dancer-actor Gregory Hines, who both produced and stars in the show.

Bill robinson bojangles movie gregory hines

"He was one of the first to refuse to wear black-face on stage and ... he broke the 'two-color rule,' which kept black people on stage as duos. They couldn't go onstage in a solo performance."

Robinson also had a troubled side that ultimately undermined his professional success and personal happiness.

Audiences will learn that he worked tireless at charitab