Originally constructed in 1919, this ornate Norfolk destination -- known for many years as The Booker T -- has been called "The Apollo of the South," but that's not exactly right, as the Attucks was constructed first.
The venerable venue is currently celebrating its 100th birthday with a new WHRO TV documentary devoted to its history as a music venue, movie theater, playhouse and community gathering place.
(And how's this for dream concerts? Dizzy Gillespie appeared here for a two-night stint in November 1946, and Newport News' own Ella Fitzgerald opened for him).
My historical feature on this important African-American showplace is now up at the Coastal Virginia Magazine website, one of the many articles I penned for the mag's special May-June music issue.
Hear the echoes by going here.
(Photo of the Attucks in 1927 courtesy of SevenVenues).
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