Save the Harlem Victoria Theatre: The Future of Harlem Needs the Past

The Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) and the remaining four developers on their short" list have earmarked the Victoria Theater in Harlem for demolition. The National Trust, the League of Historic American Theatres, and the State Historic Preservation Organization (SHPO have deemed the Victoria to be of landmark quality) all agree that landmark theaters are a foundation for economic development. ESDC, however, has disregarded this fact and wants to choose a developer who will eliminate the Victoria. We, of the Haarlem Victoria Restoration Group, are putting forward every effort to prevent this.

Harlem, New York (PRWEB) July 9, 2005 --The Haarlem Victoria Restoration Group states:

The Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) and the remaining four developers on their short" list have earmarked the Victoria Theater in Harlem for demolition. The National Trust, the League of Historic American Theatres, and the State Historic Preservation Organization (SHPO have deemed the Victoria to be of landmark quality) all agree that landmark theaters are a foundation for economic development. ESDC, however, has disregarded this fact and wants to choose a developer who will eliminate the Victoria. We, of the Haarlem Victoria Restoration Group, are putting forward every effort to prevent this.
The cultural need for the Victoria to be restored should not be ignored because there are many community based organizations that have been functioning under dire conditions for far too many years. Institutions such as the Dance Theatre of Harlem (35 years) and Vy Higginsens Mama I Want To Sing" Foundation (25 years) have been in existence. Both are world renowned and have performed as unofficial ambassadors for America. Yet, neither one nor the other has ever had a home" in which to invite other prestigious guest artists. This would produce jobs, increase tourism and act as a catalyst and provide a much needed cultural complex for Harlem.

A huge rally and concert is scheduled for Saturday, July 16, 2005, from 12 noon to 7 p.m. in Marcus Garvey Parks amphitheater located at 124th St. and 5th Ave. in Harlem. There will be performances by legends of R&B, Jazz, Gospel, Reggae and Latin music. The public will be treated to the sounds of a big band, dancers, poets, a fashion show, contests and prizes. Ray, Goodman & Brown, Lonnie Youngblood, Maxine Brown, the Legendary Intruders, the Persuaders, designer Derek Green and numerous future stars are generously donating their time, energies and talents to help save the Victoria for the benefit of themselves and all New Yorkers. The rally, with the added interest of a concert will have something for everyone to enjoy. Our hope is to bring to the attention of the State, City and general public the fact that the community is heavily committed to aiding HVRG save the Victoria.

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