An Evening with Melba Moore

On Monday, October 13, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe will present "An Evening with Melba Moore," featuring the legendary singer, actress and entertainer. The evening will begin with lite bites and drinks from Rosemary & Thyme, then guests will head into the theater where Moore – a long-time friend and supporter of WBTT and mentor to WBTT's Founder/Artistic Director Nate Jacobs – will sing songs and tell stories from her incredible career. After the one-hour program, there will be an opportunity to meet Moore and take some photos. Moore made her Broadway debut in "Hair." Over the course of that show, she became the first Black woman to replace a white actress (Diane Keaton) in a lead role. In 1970, she starred in "Purlie," which earned her a Tony Award for her portrayal of Lutiebelle Gussie Mae Jenkins. Another first came when she landed the female lead role on Broadway as Fantine in the acclaimed musical, "Les Misérables." Following the success of "Purlie," Moore landed two big-screen film roles, released two successful albums – “I Got Love” and “Look What You're Doing to the Man” – and co-starred with actor Clifton Davis in the then-couple's own successful variety television series in 1972. She has topped the charts with a number of successful songs – including hits “Lean on Me” and “You Stepped Into My Life” – and has been nominated for four Grammy Awards. In 2015, she was inducted into The Official Rhythm and Blues Hall of Fame Museum in Detroit, Mich. In 2023, she was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The reception takes place at 6 p.m. and the program at 7:30 p.m. at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe (1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota). Tickets are $150; cost includes lite bites, beer and wine, and the program. Visit westcoastblacktheatre.org or call the Box Office at 941-366-1505.