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On Friday, September 16th, Freda Payne graced Indianapolis with her presence at the Madame Walker Theatre Center as part of the week of activities for the Indy Jazz Fest. In a fabulous gold-sequined gown, Payne showed us that she still has the look and the talent. With just a piano, drums and a bass to accompany her vocal instrument, Payne paid tribute to such legends as Lena Horne and Ella Fitzgerald while singing some of her personal hits as well. Payne started the evening off with her “Lost in Love” single, scatting her way to the finish. Listeners went on a journey through time while Payne shared her story of meeting Lena Horne in her early twenties through Walter Winchell (a famed news reporter at the time). We began at the Coconut Grove, a then-bustling club in Los Angeles where we heard such classics as “Love” and “The Lady Is a Tramp,” just to name a few. Read the rest of the review (with images) here! http://melofinity.blogspot.com/2011/09/freda-payne-legend.html

We are so appreciative of the comments and energy that is being generated on behalf of Madame C.J. Walker and her legacy. As the President & CEO of The Madame Walker Theatre Center, I can assure you that our mission intentionally goes beyond hair care & production. With the help of a strong Board of Directors, we have built upon the entrepreneurial and philanthropic legacy of Madame Walker by celebrating a wide array of cultural, educational, and performing arts in our beautiful historic building. Just this month alone, The Walker will welcome living legend Freda Payne (September 16); Indy’s own opera diva Angela Brown (September 22); and gospel great Deitrick Haddon (September 30). Other upcoming events that are sure to satisfy Central Indiana are: Feel the Dream Tour – Michael Jackson Tribute (October 22); Dance Theatre of Harlem (November 10); and actor, filmmaker, comedian John Waters (November 12). Check out our Website for many more events and activities (www.walkertheatre.com) or follow us on Twitter (@walkertheatre). We thank you again for your interest in Madame C.J. Walker and The Madame Walker Theatre Center! Dr. Terry Whitt Bailey, President & CEO twbailey@walkertheatre.com 317-236-2099