Anna Bailey Danced Her Way Into History as One of the First Black Showgirls in Las Vegas

A Trailblazer in Las Vegas Entertainment

Anna Bailey stepped onto the Las Vegas stage at a time when Black performers faced countless obstacles. In 1955, she became one of the first Black showgirls to dance in the city, performing at the iconic Moulin Rouge. At just 20 years old, she entered a world where segregation still shaped daily life, yet she refused to be limited by it.

Her talent and grace captivated audiences, proving that Black dancers deserved a place in the glamorous world of Vegas entertainment. Decades later, at 98, Bailey reflected on her career and the legacy she built.

The Moulin Rouge: A Historic Beginning

Bailey’s journey began when she left New York for Las Vegas in the 1950s. When she and her fellow dancers arrived, they had concerns about the city’s racial divide.

“We crossed over the railroad tracks, and it got dark, and we said uh uh, but when we saw the Rouge, we were excited,” Bailey recalled.

The Moulin Rouge was the first integrated casino in Las Vegas, welcoming both Black and white entertainers. Bailey’s performances helped redefine entertainment, paving the way for future generations of Black dancers.

Dancing Across Las Vegas Casinos

After the Moulin Rouge closed, Bailey didn’t stop performing. She took her talents to major casinos like the Flamingo and the Dunes, proving her versatility as a dancer.

Despite her success, Black performers still faced restrictions in the industry. Many were forced to enter casinos through back doors and could not stay in the hotels where they performed. Yet, Bailey’s presence on these stages challenged those barriers and set the stage for change.

Marriage to a Civil Rights Leader

Bailey’s impact extended beyond the entertainment world. She married Dr. William “Bob” Bailey, a civil rights leader who became Nevada’s first commissioner of the Equal Rights Commission.

He played a crucial role in the 1960 Moulin Rouge Agreement, which led to the desegregation of the Las Vegas Strip. Together, the couple helped push for racial equality in both entertainment and politics.

A Lasting Legacy and Recognition

Even in her late 90s, Bailey continues to be honored for her contributions. She was recently recognized at the Las Vegas Black Image Honors for her role in shaping the city’s entertainment history.

Reflecting on her long life, she shared, “It feels good. I’m glad that I can make it because a lot of my friends are gone, even some of the girls that I worked with… I like being 99.”

Bailey’s journey serves as a reminder of the strength, resilience, and talent that helped shape the Las Vegas entertainment scene.