[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 85 (Thursday, June 25, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1234]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                    HONORING THE LATE LEONARD HARPER

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 25, 1998

  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the late Leonard 
Harper on his remarkable achievements in the field of theater and stage 
shows.
  Mr. Harper was one of the leading figures who transformed Harlem into 
a cultural center during the 1920's. His nightclub productions at 
Connie Inn, Lafayette Theater and the opening of the new Apollo Theater 
drew people from all over the world.
  Mr. Harper's accomplishments on Broadway include the all-Black 
``Kentucky Club Revue'' at the New Amsterdam Theater, and his work as a 
director on the big musical hit, ``Hot Chocolates' at the Hudson 
Theater. The production was a milestone, the first-ever production with 
three Black men as the sole creative force, which changed Broadway 
forever.
  Mr. Harper brought the cabaret form of entertainment to a 
professional level. As a producer and a brilliant choreographer, he 
introduced some of the most extraordinary talents to ever perform on 
stage and cabaret.
  Mr. Harper was previously honored by the New York State Assembly and 
the City Council of New York for his remarkable achievements.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in saluting Mr. 
Leonard Harper for his contributions to the community and his 
extraordinary accomplishments.

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