By Udo Derrick Salters
The Apollo Theater 2015 Spring Gala on Monday, June 6th was a great night at the Apollo. Hosting duties were handled by Extra TV Correspondent A. J. Calloway.
This year’s honorees were The Madison Square Garden Company receiving the Corporate Award accepted by Executive Chairman James L. Dolan and Ford Foundation receiving the Percy Sutton Award accepted by President Darren Walker.
James Dolan’s acceptance speech did not stop with a few words of gratitude. He actually performed with his band JD & The Straight Shot.
Council-Member Inez-E. Dickens District-and Congressman Charles B. Rangel_
There were special performances by The Soil, Luke James, “The Voice” contestant Kimberly Nichole, Ne-Yo, Rosanne Cash and Nile Rodgers & Chic closed the show. Nile Rodgers who has performed a number of times at the Apollo, was very happy to be playing at the Gala because he was playing his music. Rodgers did not settle for people sitting in their seats during his performance. He wanted everyone up, dancing and having a good time. How could you sit in your seat when you hear the song “Le Freak”?
As expected the Apollo was buzzing with people excited about this annual event. Deborah Cox wearing Marc Bower had the cameras flashing on the red carpet.
Former New York Knicks Guard John Starks and Sopranos Actor Steve Schirripa were among the arrivals as well. Skipping the red carpet and arriving right before showtime were Harlem’s Council Member Inez E. Dickens. and Congressman Charles B. Rangel.
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