Julie Leach, Melba Moore and Nate Jacobs. Photography by Rod Millington.
See gallery from Broadway Under the Stars.
It was an especially sweet "Sweet 16" anniversary celebration for the West Coast Black Theatre Troupe, at its "Broadway Under the Stars" gala, held at the Municipal Auditorium. Acclaimed singer and actress Melba Moore performed with the Troupe, delighting the more than 350 guests on hand for the celebration.
Seen at the event were co-chairs Audrey Coleman and Kitty Cranor, board chair Marion Moss, Executive Director Julie Leach, Sharon Kunkel, Christine Jennings, Bill Coleman, Tomeika Koski, Carolyn Michel and Howard Millman, Paula Murray, Carol Poteat-Buchanan, Sheila Weiss, Eva Slane, Frank and Jaclyn Brunckhorst, Clemmie and James Cash, Mark Pritchett, William and Elizabeth Johnston, Andy Dixon, Izetta Fields, George and Barbara Mask, Roxie Jerde, and many more.
Following welcomes and a delicious dinner, Leach and Jaih Jackson led a three-item live auction, which brought in more than $20,000 for the organization.
Artistic Director Nate Jacobs then presented two Spotlight Awards, the first the Heart and Soul Philanthropy Award which went to Gerri Aaron and Marvin Albert for their ongoing support of the organization and the Lifetime Achievement Award, which was presented to Melba Moore. "You have come such a long way, Nate," said Aaron, "and we've ha a wonderful time supporting you and the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe."
It was then time for the Broadway Revue, which was kicked off in high style by two songs from Moore, "I've Got Love" and "Aquarius" from her first Broadway role in "Hair". Then it was time for the troupe to take center stage, which they did in their usual high-energy style. "You keep showing your love, and we will keep doing our very best," said Jacobs.
