Event

A Portrait of Ray

To celebrate the legacy of equality, Vanguard Theater Company will present the story of the legendary Ray Charles in "A Portrait of Ray." Born in 1930, Ray Charles was known as a soul music visionary. His original sound, which infused Gospel, R&B, Jazz and Country Music aided in the integration of American music and American people. A charismatic musician, songwriter and producer, Ray Charles was not only integral in defining soul music as a new genre, he also used his voice as an instrument for social change. Though often controversial, his music had a profound influence on the world at large and was instrumental in changing the fabric of race relations in America.

"A Portrait of Ray" will feature New Jersey's own Broadway Star: Dwayne Clark (The Color Purple, Rent, Smokey Joe's Cafe, Porgy & Bess, In the Heights) and World Renowned Jazz Saxophonist Don Braden. The show is presented through a special community partnership with the MLK Clubs of South Orange/Maplewood Schools.