Temecula Presents proudly announces a special Celebration of American Black History with two powerful performances honoring the resilience, creativity, and cultural legacy of Black Americans.

These back-to-back evenings of music and storytelling will take place at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater (42051 Main Street) Feb. 20-21, at 7:30 p.m.

The celebration begins Feb. 20, with "Harlem After Dark: An Uptown Jazz Party," a vibrant tribute to Harlem's golden era. This electrifying evening features world-class musicians, dynamic tap dance, and soulful performances by acclaimed artists Allan Harris, Maya Azucena, and AC Lincoln.

Audiences will be transported to the heart of Harlem's jazz legacy--where music, movement, and storytelling come together to celebrate both the icons of the past and the energy of today’s jazz scene.

The celebration continues Feb. 21 with "Cross That River" an original musical by award-winning musician Allan Harris. The production tells the often-untold story of Black cowboys in the 1860's American West through a moving blend of historical fact and fiction. Following the journey of Blue, a runaway slave seeking freedom and a new life in Texas, the musical explores themes of perseverance, hope, and identity through a rich and emotionally powerful score.

These two performances are more than entertainment. They are opportunities to reflect, learn, and celebrate the profound impact of Black history and culture on the American story. The theater representatives are honored to bring these meaningful productions to the community at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater.

Check out Old Town Temecula Community Theater where every seat holds a story and every show creates a memory.

Tickets: $25 Regular Admission (each performance). For more information log on to TemeculaTheater.org. or call 866-OLD-TOWN (866-653-8696).

OTHER THEATER NEWS:

BROADWAY'S "MOULIN ROUGE" PREPARES FOR ITS FINAL CURTAIN

Broadway's dazzling "Moulin Rouge" at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre will pack it in this summer, taking its final bow on July 26 after a seven-year run. Based on the Academy Award-winning film by Baz Luhrmann, the high-octane musical has been wowing audiences since its Broadway debut in 2019.

It's been quite a run, but all good things must come to an end. Now the 36th-longest-running show in Broadway history, "Moulin Rouge" helped redefine the modern jukebox musical with its electrifying mashup score and over-the-top spectacle, turning every performance into a glittering celebration of love, art, and excess.

If you're feeling nostalgic, there are still a few months left to raise a glass and take one last intoxicating trip into a world where bohemians and dreamers ruled the stage.

Editor's Note: Some information used in this report obtained from Temecula Community Theater and Broadway Theater publicity departments.