Legendary actress Cicely Tyson’s triumphant return to Broadway after nearly three decades was marked with a 2013 Tony Award win for Best Actress in the hit revival play “A Trip to Bountiful.” Tyson was resplendent in a vibrant indigo-colored, hand-draped silk couture gown designed by her long-time friend, celebrated American fashion designer to the stars, b Michael. B Michael’s eponymous b michael America label is among the most sought after by the world’s most stylish women, including Beyonce, Halle Berry and Vanessa Williams.
Fresh off a turn in Tyler Perry’s “Peeples,” Craig Robinson is back at it, playing himself in “This is the End,” starring Seth Rogen, James Franco and Jonah Hill. Robinson spoke about singing with superstar Rihanna, who appears in the film, calling her “sweet.” To see the two’s duet on screen, go see “This is the End,” starting June 12.
Join yours truly on Saturday, June 15 at noon for the four-hour “Motown to Def Jam Gallery Tour” on Black art in America aboard a trolley. I’ll be your tour guide and we’ll celebrate African-American music with visits to several Harlem art galleries, highlighting socially conscious music created by recording artists from Chess Records, Stax Records, Motown, Philadelphia International Records and Def Jam. At the last gallery, Rio II Galleries at Broadway Housing Communities, participants will be treated to dinner and a tuneful tribute to the legendary labels. For ticket information, go to blackartinamerica.com/events/event/show.
Chris Brown wore a white suit jacket and a black shirt for his court appearance on June 11. The crooner appeared in court for a production review hearing. The Los Angeles County district attorney’s office has been unhappy with Brown’s court-ordered community service.
It was another busy weekend for Beyonce. She and hubby Jay-Z took time out to help Kanye West celebrate his 36th birthday at Miss Lily’s in New York City. Other guests at the soiree included magician David Blain, who did tricks for everyone, and Nas. Mrs. Carter also took some time out to take little Blue Ivy, wearing a blue hair bow, to the park in Brooklyn for a ride on the swings.