The Chitlin’ Circuit was a network of venues where Black musicians, comedians, and other entertainers could perform during segregation. It linked audiences and performers across clubs, theaters, and other halls.[1]
Touring under segregation
Black performers and venue operators built audiences in a country that restricted where they could work, travel, and stay. A booking and somewhere to sleep were two separate accomplishments.
Moms Mabley
Jackie “Moms” Mabley performed on the circuit in the 1920s. Her grandmotherly stage persona gave her cover to say things that could make the actual grandmothers in the audience blush.
Legacy
These touring networks helped performers develop acts and careers long before national television provided another route to audiences. By the time the rest of the country discovered some of them, the act was already polished.