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The Sandman's Trademark
Sims experimented with several different methods of reproducing the rosin box effect, gluing sandpaper to either his shoes or his dancing mat, but the sandpaper created too much wear on the other surface. Finally he found the solution: loose sand in a low-lipped box. " His sandbox remained his trademark throughout his career, with some venues even telling Sims, "If you don't bring your sandbox, don't come at all." -
1950's
During the mid 1950's Howard Sims was made the stage manager at the Apollo theater where prior to his career he participated in many amateur nights. He then became known as the executioner. He would chase the contestants the crowd disapproved off the stage. -
The Sandman
Born January 24th 1917
Died May 20th 2003 -
Family Life
At age 3 Howard Sims began dancing
He learned to dance from his father
He was one of twelve children
Howard Sims said "It was one big dancing family" -
Childhood Dreams
Howard Sims actually aspired to be a Boxer, not a Dancer.
After Breaking his hand twice he decided he needed a different way to make a living. -
1947
Howard Sims found neither fame or success in LA so he tagged along with one of his friends to New York where he settles in Harlem -
Personal Life
Howard Sims had a daughter named Diane with his first wife. After he remarried he had a son Howard Sims Jr. with his second wife followed by 5 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. -
The End
The Sandman Died on May 20th 2003. He suffered from Alzheimers disease. They held a memorial for him at the Apollo Theater
