Imagine a school that could easily fit the bill of many coming-of-age performing arts storylines—a modern-day Glee! Disciplines such as literary media and communications, museum studies, visual arts theatre, technical design and production, dance and instrumental and vocal music are explored and refined within the halls of an institution, resulting in nature skills that students who otherwise may not be given the opportunity will carry onto the “real world,” wherever their paths may lead them.
Now, set against the backdrop of the iconic Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Picture those gifted students participating on stage with the distinct voices of Smoky Robinson, Earth Wind and Fire, Stevie Wonder and Duke Ellington School of the Arts alums Denyce Graves and Dave Chapelle.
The 6th annual “Performance Series of Legends” was not lacking for star power, garnering national attention, with the incomparable and sensational Patti LaBelle lending her time, passion and truly legendary voice to the 2013 event and forever impacting the young adults then, before they embarked on their careers.
Patti LaBelle: A Legendary Performance
Ms LaBelle kicked off her heels and belted out her iconic classics, entertaining the crowd with not only her voice but also performing classics such as “If Only You Know,” “Somebody Loves You, Baby,” “New Attitude,” You Are My Friend,”…
But also, ever bonafide diva, the evening included perfectly timed quips about her tenure in the business and the then state of her love life before leading into “On My Own”, At one point, she even brought four lucky gentlemen from the audience and had them serenade her along to her hit, “Lady Marmalade”.
Students Joined her on stage for two songs, during which she kicked off her shoes and nearly brought down the house along with the student choir and orchestra, who beautifully supported her performance. For the encore, she returned to the students draped in a vintage shawl and graciously promoted the school while praising the talented students.
Celebrating 40 Years of Excellence
As exciting as the year was, “Legends” kicked off the 40th anniversary of the school, which relied on ticket sales, donations, and sponsorships to maintain the resources and the quality experience and attention that each student received.
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