By Yolande Brener Imagining America is a consortium of universities dedicated to civic engagement in the arts. As part of Harlem Advocacy Week, which ran from October 1 to October 7, I attended Imagining America’s tour of Harlem’s Cultural Jewels.

Egbert Austin “Bert” Williams (November 12, 1874 – March 4, 1922) was one of the preeminent entertainers of the Vaudeville era and one of the most popular comedians for all audiences of his time. “(Bert Williams was)…central to the development of a global black modernism centered in Harlem’s Renaissance.”

Noah Stewart has the swagger of Puffy and the voice of Paul Robeson. Noah’s musical development started in Harlem where he studied classical music at The Harlem School of the Arts.

By Walter Rutledge The Nanette Bearden Contemporary Dance Theatre will perform an excerpt of its full-length story ballet On The Block, on Thursday July 7, at 7pm in the Oberia Dempsey Center located at 127 West 127 Street in Harlem.

Thelma Golden has been at the Studio Museum in Harlem since the turn of the millenium, first as the deputy director for exhibits and programs, and, since 2005, as the museum’s director and chief curator.

By Walter Rutledge On Tuesday May 3, Ailey At The Apollo, the annual Spring Gala Benefit, returns to the world famous Apollo Theater .

By Walter Rutledge Ailey II has evolved into a formidable force in the modern dance community. The company is presently experiencing unparallel success having recently completed a 49-city tour spanning both North America and Europe. The professional work ethic is a combination of a nurturing dance symposium, and boot camp.

By Walter Rutledge February 18, 2011 marked the return of theatrical icon Ben Vereen to the New York stage. The one night only performance was presented to a sold out crowd at Time Square’s landmark theatrical venue Town Hall. An Evening with Ben Vereen was a resounding testament to both the man and his artistic…