The Apollo Theater will host the tenth annual “Great Night in Harlem” benefit on May 19
Apollo Theater
253 West 125th St. between Seventh & Eighth Aves.
Thursday, May 19, $55-$1500, 7:00
212-245-3999 ext. 10
www.jazzfoundation.org
Dedicated to helping elder jazz and blues musicians facing medical, financial, legal, and housing crises, the Jazz Foundation of America has been hosting the annual benefit “A Great Night in Harlem” since 2002. Founded in 1989 by Herb Storfer, Ann Ruckert, Cy Blank, Phoebe Jacobs, and Dr. Billy Taylor, the organization handles some five thousand cases a year on its mission of “saving jazz and blues, one musician at a time.” This year’s benefit takes place May 19 at the legendary Apollo Theater in Harlem, featuring live performances from across the musical spectrum, including Macy Gray, Dr. John, Lou Reed, Ronnie Spector, Donald Fagen, Christian McBride, Terry Adams, the Hot 8 Brass Band, and surprise guests, produced by Hal Willner. In addition, there will be special appearances by Danny Glover and Michael Imperioli and other Sopranos cast members. The 2011 Dr. Billy Taylor Humanitarian Award will honor financial wizard Michael Novogratz, founder of the nonprofit Beat the Streets, which helps New York City public school students through the sport of amateur wrestling. Tickets for the event begin at $55 for the concert alone and go as high as $1,500 for a preconcert reception and gala dinner and after-party.