The Uniquely Entertaining Show Highlights the Early Era of Motown Records with Candid Conversations and Performances by Artists and Executives Who Were There
Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts presents the world premiere of “Motown: Celebrating the Music, the Magic, the Love” on Saturday, October 1, at 7 pm, at The Wallis’ Bram Goldsmith Theater, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd. in Beverly Hills.
The magic of early Motown will be displayed featuring music trailblazers and icons, who will share their rare insights into the phenomenal music, and the stories behind it, that positively impacted people and music around the globe.
Created, produced and directed by Karla Gordy Bristol of Bristol Entertainment, the show highlights the early days of Motown Records and includes a panel moderated by four-time Grammy nominee Patrice Rushen.
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Participants include Brian Holland, hitmaker known for songs including “Stop! In the Name of Love;” Claudette Robinson, member of The Miracles; Iris Gordy, former Motown vice president; Janie Bradford, co-writer of “Money That’s What I Want;” and Miller London, pioneering record salesman.
Smokey Robinson, The Temptations’ Otis Williams, The Four Tops’ Duke Fakir, and Martha Reeves of “Dancing in the Street” will share poignant remembrances of their days at “Hitsville U.S.A.” – the little house with the big sound, as envisioned by Motown founder and living legend, Berry Gordy.
Keyboardist Herman Jackson is the evening’s music director. Also, performing will be Grammy-winner Thelma Houston, Brenda Holloway, Scherrie, Lynda and Susaye Former Ladies of The Supremes, and special guests.
“This incredible show truly celebrates the music, the magic and the love of the Motown story, and will be led by legendary radio personality and announcer, Shadoe Stevens, and mistress of ceremonies, Emmy Award-winning news anchor Pat Harvey,” said Karla Gordy Bristol.
“Motown: Celebrating the Music, the Magic, the Love” is supported by Sony Music Publishing and The Berry Gordy Foundation for Truth and Justice. While tickets for the show are sold out, interested persons can be added to the waitlist by emailing [email protected].
The Wallis is closely monitoring the ever-changing local health and safety environment carefully and addressing known health factors at the moment. Should plans change and any performances be required to be postponed or cancelled or if venue capacity limitations are instituted, ticket holders will be notified immediately with options for their purchased tickets per The Wallis’ ticketing policies.
The health and safety of patrons, staff, and artists inside and outside the venue are a top priority. The Wallis is requiring all patrons to provide, upon entry, proof of full vaccination or a negative PCR test result within 48 hours or a verifiable Antigen test within 24 hours from your performance date, along with a government issued photo ID. Facial masks, covering both the mouth and nose, are still required at all times while within the venue.
The Wallis’ health and safety protocols are also subject to change at the venue’s sole discretion or in accordance with LA County and City of Beverly Hills regulations. Current Health & Safety Protocols and updates may also be accessed at TheWallis.org/Safety. Policies are subject to change.
