On this day in Black history: ’Porgy and Bess’ opens on Broadway, first Black school in New York City and more
Written by ABC Audio All Rights Reserved on February 28, 2024
On this day in Black history, February 28:
— In 1704, Frenchman Elias Neau established the first school open to Black people in New York City, which originally began as visits to homes of the enslaved community.
— In 1943, renowned musical Porgy and Bess opened on Broadway with Anne Brown and Todd Duncan in starring roles. The entire cast consisted of classically trained Black singers.
— In 1984, Michael Jackson took home eight Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year for “Beat It” and Album of the Year for Thriller.
— Happy birthday to Charles “Bubba” Smith, Tasha and Sidra Smith, Rae Dawn Chong, Tabatha “Dreamdoll” Robinson, Kehinde Wiley and Ainsley Harriott.
Copyright © 2024, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.
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