The Rock of Harlem is a musical stage production about the historic Apollo Theatre in New York, the nucleus of Harlem nightlife from the 1930's until today, the musical mecca for top African American entertainment. The Apollo was the home to many great artist and was monumental in jump starting the careers of Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Mariah Carey, The Jackson 5, D'Angelo Lauren Hill, Ne-Yo and countless others.

 

SYNOPSIS

 

The Rock of Harlem is a story about the legendary world famous Apollo Theatre to be told through seven unique principle characters and their direct connection and interaction with the venue. Throughout the years, the Apollo Theatre led the way in the presentation of swing, bebop, rhythm and blues, modern jazz, commercially presented gospel, funk, hip hop and soul, which are highlighted in the production. As the story unfolds, unbeknownst to the audience, is the mystery of the Artist occupying the Apollo "Dressing Room #6, throughout history reserved only for the main act. On any given night a celebrity musical guest will take the stage to perform the show's finale.

 

The Rock of Harlem was written by Curtis Patterson and Johanne Sterntdal based on new original songs penned by legendary Motown Grammy Award winning composer and producer Lamont Dozier (The Supremes, Four Tops, Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson).