Singer and Tony Award Winner Melba Moore Visits BSU’s FPAC

Legendary Performer Tells Students They’re at a Great Place to Learn

 

MEDIA CONTACT: David Thompson, dlthompson@bowiestate.edu, 301-860-4311

(BOWIE, Md.) – Singer, actress and Tony Award winner Melba Moore recently spent time at Bowie State University in the Fine and Performing Arts Department collaborating with fashion design professor Maggy Francois to create the suit the icon wore last Friday at a special ceremony in Newark, New Jersey to name a street after the multi-talented performer.

“I never thought it would happen and I'm honored," said Moore. ”Live the life you want to live and express yourself. You want to give back to the community through the arts, culture and community service. That's what it's all about.”

In August, Moore was in Los Angeles to attend the ceremony unveiling her Hollywood Walk of Fame Star. 

"Melba Moore has done it all," said Francois. "I was absolutely thrilled when she contacted me to design her suit for such an important occasion in her life.”

Moore, who was born in New York City, lived in Manhattan the first 10 years of her life and then moved to Newark where she graduated from high school. She attended Montclair State University and taught vocal music in the public schools after graduating. Moore went on to star in Hair, Purlie and other Broadway productions, while also launching a recording career. She also starred in the film The Fighting Temptations with Beyonce.

The entertainment industry has gone through significant changes since Moore began her career in the late 60s. Now people who want to work as a professional actor, singer or dancer need to understand the business part of the entertainment industry according to Moore.

"My advice to students is to take advantage of being here," said Moore. "Bowie State is an example of a great place to receive a state-of-the-art performing arts education where students can use the university's assets to learn the technical and practical aspects of the arts."

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