Greetings! We’re in our GBE “Living in the Spirit” month for April 2019, noting the birthday and the passing date of the great, late Motown Superstar Marvin Gaye April, 2, 1939. Gaye was killed by his own father in Los Angeles one day before his 45th birthday in 1984. His musical legacy lives on.
THEATER
“Ain’t Too Proud” is the electrifying new musical that follows The Temptations’ extraordinary journey from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Five guys—one dream with a sound that would make music history. Written by three time Obie award winner Dominique Morisseau, directed by two-time Tony award winner Des McAnuff (“Jersey Boys”), and featuring choreography by Tony nominee Sergio Trujillo (“Jersey Boys,” “On Your Feet”). The musical brings the untold story of this legendary quintet to irresistible life on Broadway. Imperial Theatre, 249 West 45th St., Manhattan. For more information, call 844-379-0370 or visit www.secureboxoffice.com.
“Ain’t No Mo” is a satirical odyssey portraying the great exodus of Black Americans out of a country plagued with injustice. After scenes of the moments before, during and after this outrageous departure, the production explores the value of Black lives in a country turning away from the promise of a Black president. Now through April 28 at 7 p.m. The Public Theatre, 425 Lafayette St, Manhattan. For more information, visit www.publictheatre.org.
“White Noise” Suzan-Lori Parks’ world premiere play about race, friendship, and our rapidly unraveling social contract. Anspacher Theater, 425 Lafayette Street, Manhattan; through Sunday, April 21. For more information, visit www.broadway.com/shows/white-noise.
“A Walk Into Slavery” a multi-media meditation about reconnecting with one’s ancestors and redefining one’s purpose. While visiting Africa, Hollis King an international photographer encounters the slave dungeons of West Ghana—the final stop for many before their Transatlantic journey into slavery in the Americas. Enhanced with photographs, pencil sketches, journal entries, videotaped interviews and live music, we learn that in order to move forward one must go back. One Week Only! April 30 thru May 4 presented by The Billie Holiday Theatre The New Dance Space, Restoration ART 1368 Fulton Street, Brooklyn.
MUSIC
Arturo Sandoval, April 11 through April 14, Blue Note, 131 West 3rd Street, Manhattan. For information, visit www.ticketmaster.
Apollo Music Café “Celebrates Africa Now!” featuring Tosin and Allinor, Friday, April 12 at 10 p.m. Apollo Theater, 253 West 123th Street, Manhattan. For more information, visit ticketmaster.com.
Apollo Music Café: Africa Now! Afterparty featuring Young Paris, Saturday, April 13 at 10 p.m., Apollo Theater, 253 West 125th Street, Manhattan. For info visit: ticketmaster.com.
The Nyack College School of Music will present “Yesterday, Today, Forever,” a concert of classical, contemporary, gospel and sacred music Friday, April 12, starting 7:30 p.m. at the iconic cultural arts venue located at Columbus Avenue and 65th Street in Manhattan. Get tickets now at Lincoln Center.org or at the David Geffen Hall Box Office on 65th Street in Manhattan. For more information, call 212-875-5000 or visit www.lincolncenter.org.
The World Famous Apollo Theatre presents one of the most successful groups of all time, The Mighty O’Jays. Friday, April 26 at 8 p.m. The O’Jays (named for iconic dj Eddie O’Jay) have been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and the Grammy Hall of Fame. For more information, visit www.apollotheatre.org.
Carnegie Hall presents Deva Mahal with her debut album, “Run Deep,” Saturday, April 13 at 10 p.m. in this one-night-only performance with inspiration from generations of female vocalists and songwriters, including special guests Meshell Ndegeocello and the Resistance Revival Chorus. Doors open at 9 p.m. The first 200 concertgoers receive a free drink. Call Carnegie Charge and mention code WTG31206 at 212-747-7800.
DANCE
For 50 years, Dance Theatre of Harlem has inspired the world with a revolutionary vision of a multiethnic ballet company. Co-founded by the great Arthur Mitchell and Karel Shook, the company performs groundbreaking works with power and grace. Following Arthur Mitchell’s sudden passing in September, the company dedicates the 50th anniversary season to him, his life and legacy. The Company’s New York season at City Center runs April 10-13. Join the celebration! For more information, visit www.danctheatreofharlem.org.
FILM
“Amazing Grace.” The “Queen Of Soul” Aretha Franklin in all of her glory, captured in this historic film documentary is now in theaters for the world to witness. The historic live recording was filmed at The New Bethel Church in Watts Los Angeles, in 1972.
COMMUNITY
“Back2Basics (a radio & podcast) presents High Hopes: A Community Conversation” with Nayaba Arinde, Saturday, April 13, 2019. A Town Hall on Specialized Schools “Access Denied Or Change Needed?” Invited speakers: NYS Assemblyman Charles Barron, NYC Councilwoman Inez Barron, Sam Adewumi-educator, NYC Councilwoman Adrienne Adams, Omawale Clay/December12 Movement. Sista’s Place, 456 Nostrand Ave., Brooklyn. For more information, 718-398-1766 or visit www.D12m.com.
“Black Vegfest Co Op City The Wholistic Health & Wellness Fair” featuring demonstrations, information, advices, testimonials, entertainment, prizes, nutritious refreshments. “Food Inc.” a Robert Kenner Film. Free Admission. Saturday, April 13, 2019, from 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Bartow Community Center in Co-Op City, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Room 31, Bronx. For more information, visit: www.blackvegfest.org.
Christian Cultural Center’s 2019 “Lent Experience Observance” started on Ash Wednesday and ends Resurrection Sunday, April 21, 2019. There is still time to join the observance under the direction of renowned Pastor A.R. Bernard. The public is welcome to visit their internet campus to join Tuesday Night Prayer Services streaming live every Tuesday during the Lent Season from their Brooklyn Campus from 7 p.m.–9 p.m., Tuesday, April 16. Continue the journey of spiritual renewal. For more information, contact CCC Guest Services Christian Cultural Center 718-306-1000; or email Registration@cccinfo.org.
Listen to Imhotep Gary Byrd’s “Express Yourself,” Sunday evenings from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. and simulcast over WLIB 1190AM. The full show can also be heard on HD radio at WBLS-HD2 and at WBLS.com, WLIB.com and NextRadio. IGB’s “Beat Experience” is heard Fridays 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Archived online at www.wbai.org. For bookings or to reach us about your GBEvent or for comments, email co-editor Nyerere, nyerere1@aol.com, find us at Imhotep Gary Byrd on Facebook or call 212-592-3279.