Music enthusiasts had the opportunity to mix their favorite music with newspaper knowledge
“Motown the Musical” is set to be in Los Angeles until June 7th at the Pantages Theater in Hollywood. (Mesiyah McGinnis/LA Sentinel)
Snapping fingers, audience sing-alongs and foot taps filled Hollywood’s Pantages Theater on May 14 during the “Motown the Musical.” Like any other night, the venue was filled with music buffs and theater enthusiasts who couldn’t help but sing when hits like “ABC” by the Jackson 5 were performed.
But, this night was exceptionally special because the Los Angeles Sentinel Newspaper hosted the evening in partnership with the musical to encourage attendees about the importance of the local Black Press.
The long standing relationship between Los Angeles Sentinel publisher Danny Bakewell Sr. and Motown creator Berry Gordy has continued to blossom over the years. The importance of the Black press helped companies like Motown Records spread the word about Black influence in music in the 70’s.
“I am happy to be in partnership with the musical tonight,” said Los Angeles Sentinel Chief Operating Officer Pamela Bakewell to the audience. “We want to encourage you all to pick up and read our newspaper because it is important to support the Black press.”
Allison Semmes during a solo performance as Diana Ross. (Mesiyah McGinnis/LA Sentinel)
Memorabilia and some of the Sentinel’s iconic newspaper covers were strategically placed throughout the theater for guests to observe. Audience members were also offered a free year subscription for the Sentinel newspaper and company gear to encourage readership.
“We were proud to combine the 82 year history of the LA Sentinel with the history of Motown,” said Bakewell.
The musical featured over 40 classic songs from then Motown artists like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Rick James, Teena Marie, Diana Ross and many others. The play was derived from Motown creator Berry Gordy’s book “To be Loved: The Music, The Magic, The Memories of Motown”.
Audience members enjoyed Stevie Wonder classic “Supersitition”. (Mesiyah McGinnis/ LA Sentinel)
The Black owned record label started in 1959 in Detroit Michigan as Tamla Records. The label changed names later on that year and soon became the first successful Black owned label. The successful proponents of the labels soul music opened doors for Black entertainers to enter mainstream charts.
Cast members include Jarran Muse as Marvin Gaye, Julius Thomas III as Berry Gordy, Allison Semmes as Diana Ross, Jesse Nager as Smokey Robinson and countless other talented actors and singers.
The play is directed by Charles Randolph-Wright and chronicles the lives of artists in a competitive music industry. This is the first time the musical will tour nationally since it’s 2013 debut on Broadway.
The ensemble casted as The Supremes perform a musical number. (Mesiyah McGinnis/LA Sentinel)
“Motown the Musical” will be playing until June 7 at the Pantages Theater in Hollywood. For more information about the play visit www.motownthemusical.com If your interested in winning tickets to watch “Motown the Musical” visit our website www.lasentinel.net and enter the “Click to Win” drawing.