On St. Patrick’s Day, 1919, the world met the voice that built Capitol Records, Nat “King” Cole. *** “Just look around and see all of the artists who are out there. Whether you’re talking John Legend, Anthony Hamilton, Beyonce — go on the top 100 of the R&B list and they are all directly connected to Nat “King” Cole. And, as an actor on television, I would not be here if not for him. Sammy Davis Jr. used to say, and I’m paraphrasing here, that he would never walk through a door unless he was absolutely certain that door would stay open for those who came after him. I believe that’s what Mr. Cole has done. He endured during that time. He broke down barriers just by being in people’s living room, by being in their ear as they listened to his music. It has allowed us to all be here now doing what we do. There’s a line in the play that says “Kill me now, there will be ten more.” We are the ten more. I know, for myself, that I am one of those ten.” —Dulé Hill on the legacy of Nat “King” Cole See @dulehill take the stage as Nat “King” Cole in @kingofbingo & @patriciamcgregor ’s LIGHTS OUT: NAT “KING” COLE. Dulé is joined onstage by @dwattswords as Sammy Davis Jr. in a production that features Nat’s hit songs, like “Nature Boy,” “It’s a Good Day,” “Smile” and “Unforgettable” with music supervision, orchestrations and arrangements by @johnmcd123. More details in the #linkinbio. (fb)

Swipe thru to see what #ForTheCulture events are happening throughout the run of BECOMING EVE! To RSVP for events like masterclasses or to see the most up-to-date lineup, please visit NYTW.org or the #linkinbio. (fb)