Stewart Lane to Discuss, Sign Book BLACK BROADWAY at Drama Book Shop Tonight

The Drama Book Shop will host producer and author Stewart Lane (A Gentleman's Guide To Love & Murder, Jekyll & Hyde and the upcoming Top Hat) for a discussion and signing of his new book Black Broadway: African-Americans On the Great White Way. The discussion, which is free to the public, will take place on Monday, February 22nd at 5:00PM.

The African-American actors and actresses whose names have shone brightly on Broadway marquees earned their place in history not only through hard work, perseverance, and talent, but also because of the legacy left by those who came before them. Like the doors of many professions, those of the theater world were shut to minorities for decades. While the Civil War may have freed the slaves, it was not until the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s that the playing field began to level. In this remarkable book, theater producer and historian Stewart F. Lane uses words and pictures to capture this tumultuous century and to highlight the rocky road that black actors have travelled to reach recognition on the Great White Way. Black Broadway provides an entertaining, poignant history of a Broadway of which few are aware. By focusing a spotlight on both performers long forgotten and on those whom we still hold dear, this unique book offers a story well worth telling.

Stewart F. Lane is a six-time Tony Award-winning Broadway producer for War Horse, Thoroughly Modern Millie, The Two and Only, The Will Rogers Follies, and La Cage Aux Folles. He has also produced in Dublin and London, where his shows have been nominated for an Olivier. With a BFA from Boston University, Mr. Lane has acted, published two plays, and directed across the country, working with actors like Stephen Baldwin, Shannon Doherty, and Chazz Palminteri. He is co-owner of the Palace Theatre on Broadway and 47th Street, and, with partner Robert De Niro, he owns the Tribeca Grill.

Mr. Lane has served on the Board of Directors of the NY State Theater at Lincoln Centerand the Transitional Committee, where he appointed both the Commissioner for Cultural Affairs and the Commissioner of Film, Theater, and Broadcasting. He currently sits on the Board of Trustees of The Actors Fund of America. Lane is the author of the critically acclaimed books Let's Put on a Show! and Jews on Broadway, and is a highly sought-after speaker. He lives in Manhattan with his family. Visit him at www.mrbroadway.com.

The Tony Award-winning Drama Book Shop, now celebrating its 99th year, is located at 250 W40th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues. Copies of Mr. Lane's book will be available for sale. For more information on this and other events, please visit www.dramabookshop.com.